Why Make This Recipe
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a fantastic choice for beginner cooks because it combines simple ingredients and easy cooking techniques. This dish is full of flavor, allowing you to impress your family and friends without much effort. Plus, it’s customizable! You can add any veggies you like or adjust the sauce to your taste. The combination of creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors makes every bite a delight.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
- 1 cup mixed veggies (broccoli, bell peppers, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Directions:
Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. Set it aside once ready. Using a rice cooker can simplify this step and ensure perfectly cooked rice. Beginner Note: Follow package instructions for perfect rice. Use a rice cooker for convenience and consistent results.
While the rice is cooking, let’s prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces allows it to cook quickly and evenly. Seasoning the chicken before cooking enhances its natural flavors. Beginner Note: Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and evenly. Season generously with salt and pepper.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Ensure that the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to prevent sticking. Chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Beginner Note: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken to prevent sticking and ensure even browning. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
While the chicken is cooking, mix together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl: mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice. Taste it, and adjust the sriracha if you want it spicier or add more honey for sweetness. The sauce should be well-balanced with a creamy, spicy, and sweet flavor profile. Beginner Note: Adjust the sauce to your taste preferences. Start with the recommended amounts and add more or less of each ingredient as needed.
Once the chicken is cooked, toss in your mixed veggies and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they’re just tender. Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp to retain their texture and nutritional value. Beginner Note: Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp to provide a pleasant texture and retain their nutrients.
Remove the skillet from heat, pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring to coat everything evenly. Serve your bang bang chicken over a mound of rice and garnish with extra sriracha or chopped green onions if desired. Ensure that everything is well coated with the sauce for maximum flavor. Beginner Note: Ensure everything is well coated with the sauce for a flavorful and cohesive dish. Garnish with your favorite toppings for added flavor and visual appeal.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl hot, with a generous scoop of rice topped with chicken and veggies. You can add extra sauce on top for more flavor. It’s great for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed on its own.
How to Store Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
- Use a variety of vegetables to enhance the dish’s flavor and color.
- Adjust the spice level of the sauce by changing the amount of sriracha.
- For added texture, consider tossing in some roasted nuts or seeds.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with tofu or chickpeas. The sauce pairs well with different proteins, so feel free to experiment based on your dietary preferences.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cutting and cooking.
Q: What vegetables can I use?
A: You can use any vegetables you like, such as snap peas, zucchini, or corn. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Q: Is the sauce safe to eat if I don’t use it all?
A: Yes, leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure it’s in a sealed container.
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Ingredients
Method
- Cook your rice according to the package instructions. Set it aside once ready.
- Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces allows it to cook quickly and evenly.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Mix together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl: mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice.
- Taste and adjust the sriracha or honey as needed.
- Once the chicken is cooked, toss in your mixed veggies and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
- Remove from heat, pour the sauce over the chicken and veggies, stirring to coat evenly.
- Serve your bang bang chicken over rice and garnish as desired.