If you’re looking for a meal that’s creamy, spicy, crunchy, and full of flavor, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is about to become your new favorite. I made this the other night when I was craving takeout but wanted something healthier and homemade—and let me tell you, it hit the spot!
This bowl is packed with crispy chicken bites tossed in that famous sweet-and-spicy bang bang sauce, then served over fluffy rice with crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a drizzle of extra sauce on top. Whether you’re meal prepping or just making dinner in a pinch, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
- Customizable – Use shrimp, tofu, or even air-fried cauliflower
- Meal prep-friendly – Makes great leftovers for lunch the next day
- Better than takeout – Less greasy, more flavorful, and made from scratch
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make 2–3 servings of this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or 1 egg, beaten)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (or use an air fryer)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar (optional for tang)
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Step 1: Prep the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar (if using). Taste and adjust spice level. Set aside.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Toss your chicken pieces in buttermilk or beaten egg. In another bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken pieces in the dry mix until coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Frying: Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a skillet over medium-high. Fry chicken in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Air Fryer: Spray coated chicken with oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 4: Toss in Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, toss it with 2–3 tablespoons of bang bang sauce in a large bowl. Don’t overdo it—you want them saucy but still crispy.
Step 5: Build the Bowl
Layer your bowl with cooked rice, shredded cabbage, and carrots. Top with bang bang chicken, a drizzle of extra sauce, green onions, sesame seeds, and herbs.
Variations & Substitutions
- Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken: Save on calories and oil by air frying instead of deep frying
- Shrimp Version: Swap chicken for shrimp for a bang bang shrimp bowl
- Vegetarian Option: Use crispy tofu or cauliflower instead of meat
- Low-Carb Bowl: Serve over cauliflower rice or greens
- Add More Veggies: Edamame, cucumber, avocado, or bell peppers go great
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Bowl
- Double the Sauce: If you love it saucy (like I do!), make a double batch and save some for dipping or drizzling
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store components separately in airtight containers and assemble when ready to eat
- Spice Level Control: Add more or less sriracha depending on how spicy you like it
Storing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat: Reheat the chicken in the air fryer or oven to keep it crispy
- Do not freeze: The sauce may separate after freezing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make bang bang chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best texture, reheat in an oven or air fryer and toss in sauce just before serving.
Can I use store-bought bang bang sauce?
You can, but homemade tastes fresher and allows you to adjust sweetness and spice to your liking.
Is bang bang chicken spicy?
It’s mildly spicy thanks to the sriracha, but you can reduce or omit it if you’re sensitive to heat. You can also add extra chili flakes or hot sauce if you want it spicier.
What’s the best substitute for sweet chili sauce?
You can mix honey, a dash of vinegar, and a little sriracha or red pepper flakes as a quick sweet chili alternative.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for coating, and ensure your sweet chili sauce and mayo are gluten-free.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Not as written, but you can make it keto by skipping the flour and using almond flour or crushed pork rinds, and serving it over cauliflower rice.
Conclusion
If you’re in the mood for something bold, comforting, and full of flavor, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is your answer. It’s everything you love about takeout—crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and loads of texture—but made right at home with ingredients you trust.
Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the tasty variations, this bowl is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try this week and let the flavors speak for themselves.
