Best Bang Bang Chicken and Rice Bowls – trulygoodeats

The aroma of spicy, sweet chicken mingling with fresh vegetables can turn a busy weeknight dinner into a delightful feast. Best Bang Bang Chicken and Rice Bowls – trulygoodeats promise a perfect balance of flavors in just about 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for anyone needing a quick yet delicious meal. The crispy chicken coated in a creamy sauce takes it over the top, creating a meal that entices the palate with every bite.

This recipe is perfect for families looking to spice up their dinner rotation or anyone who loves a hearty, satisfying bowl. It’s great for meal prep, as you can store the components separately and assemble them when ready to enjoy a fresh meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy chicken pieces coated in a creamy, spicy sauce create an irresistible flavor.
• Fresh, crunchy vegetables add a delightful texture and enhance the overall nutrition.
• Quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Versatile ingredients allow for easy substitutions to suit dietary preferences.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your flavorful dish.

For the Chicken

• 1/3 cup tapioca starch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 1/2 lb chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch bite-sized chunks
• 2 tbsp avocado oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp mayo
• 1/2 cup honey
• 3 tbsp chili sauce
• 2 tbsp hot sauce
• 2 tsp garlic, freshly minced
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Vegetables

• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 1/2 cups carrots, shredded or cut into matchsticks
• 2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1/2 tsp ginger, freshly grated
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp pepper

For Assembly

• 2 cups rice, cooked and warm
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced into half-moons
• 2 tsp lime juice
• 2 scallions, finely sliced
• 1 tsp black sesame seeds

Avocado oil can be substituted with vegetable oil.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Honey can be replaced with maple syrup.
• Chili sauce is optional for less spice.
• Chicken breasts can be swapped for thighs.
• Cabbage could be substituted with broccoli slaw.

How to Make It

Create this delicious meal in just a few simple steps.

Prepare the Chicken

Combine 1/3 cup tapioca starch, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, and 1/2 tsp paprika in a large bowl. Add the chicken chunks to the mixture, tossing to coat them evenly.

Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tbsp avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken chunks and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp mayo, 1/2 cup honey, 3 tbsp chili sauce, 2 tbsp hot sauce, 2 tsp freshly minced garlic, 1 tsp soy sauce, and 1/2 tsp salt until smooth. Pour this sauce over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat thoroughly.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat. Add 1 1/2 cups shredded or matchstick carrots and 2 cups thinly sliced cabbage, cooking for about 5 minutes, until tender yet still crisp. Stir in 1/2 tsp freshly grated ginger, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.

Assemble the Bowls

In serving bowls, add 2 cups of warm cooked rice as the base. Top with the sautéed vegetables, followed by the bang bang chicken and sauce. Garnish with sliced cucumber, 2 tsp lime juice, chopped scallions, and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds.

How to Store It

Fridge: Keep for up to 4 days in airtight containers.
Freezer: No, due to texture changes.
Reheat: Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the chicken is cooked in batches for optimal crispiness.
• Adjust the hot sauce in the sauce to control spiciness level.
• Use fresh vegetables for the best texture and flavor.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its freshest.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a light Asian-inspired salad.
• Serve with steamed edamame for a nutritious side.
• Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner with family.