If you’ve ever yearned for a meal that feels like a party in your mouth, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is your ticket to flavor paradise. There’s something utterly delightful about sinking your fork into juicy, buttermilk-marinated chicken that’s been enrobed in a crunchy panko crust and kissed by a sweet-spicy bang bang sauce. Every bite offers a symphony of textures: the crisp chicken, the creamy avocado, the snap of fresh edamame, and the gentle chew of fluffy jasmine rice. It’s a bowl that not only satisfies hunger but also sparks joy, playing with your taste buds as it dances between sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or simply on the hunt for a quick midweek dinner that wows, this recipe checks all the boxes: intermediate difficulty for those who love a satisfying challenge, about 20 minutes of active prep, 25 minutes of cooking time, and a patient 30-minute marinade/rest period that pays off in succulent reward.
When I first discovered this vibrant bowl, I was hosting a small get-together and wanted something both visually stunning and deeply comforting. As the chicken sizzled in the pan, its golden crumbs crackled like tiny firecrackers, filling the kitchen with an inviting melody of crunch. My friends and I gathered around, marveling at how a simple combination of everyday pantry staples—mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a kick of sriracha—could elevate everything into a tangy-sweet masterpiece. This dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s a conversation starter. You’ll find yourself swapping tips on how to get that perfect panko texture or debating the ideal level of heat for the bang bang sauce. Packed with about 712 calories per serving, it’s also substantial enough to serve as a hearty lunch or dinner. Whether you opt to swap in brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist, or double the batch to feed a crowd, the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a versatile superstar in any cook’s rotation.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BANG BANG CHICKEN BOWL
Every unforgettable recipe starts with a handful of high-quality ingredients that each play a starring role. Here’s a closer look at what makes this bowl so irresistible:
- Chicken breasts
Tender, boneless, skinless chicken that soaks up the buttermilk marinade, ensuring every piece stays extra juicy once fried and baked to golden perfection.
- Panko breadcrumbs
Light, flaky Japanese-style crumbs that give the chicken its signature crunch, creating that satisfying contrast with the tender interior.
- All-purpose flour
A light dusting of flour helps the egg wash adhere to the chicken, resulting in an even panko coating and a gorgeously crisp crust.
- Eggs, beaten
The adhesive middle layer in our three-step dredge, binding flour and panko together so the crust stays intact through frying and baking.
- Salt
Enhances all the flavors in the chicken and seasoning blend, ensuring that each bite is balanced and delicious.
- Black pepper
Adds a subtle warmth and depth to the panko mixture, complementing the sweet and spicy sauce without overpowering it.
- Buttermilk
Its acidity tenderizes the chicken, breaking down proteins so the meat becomes supremely soft and flavorful.
- Mayonnaise
Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce, adding richness and body that beautifully carries the sweet chili and sriracha.
- Sweet chili sauce
Delivers a gentle sweetness and mild heat, creating a sticky, glossy element in the sauce that clings to the crispy chicken.
- Sriracha sauce
Packs a spicy punch and bright pepper flavor, allowing you to dial up (or down) the heat to suit your taste.
- Lime juice
Brings a fresh, zesty tang that lifts the sauce and cuts through the richness, tying all the flavors together.
- Jasmine rice
Fluffy and fragrant, it serves as the perfect neutral base that absorbs the sauce and balances the bowl’s bold components.
- Avocado
Silky, buttery slices that mellow the heat from the chicken and sauce, adding a luxurious texture to each mouthful.
- Shredded carrots
Provide a crisp, slightly sweet crunch, contributing both color and a healthy dose of veggies.
- Edamame
Shelled green soybeans that introduce a pop of protein and a delightful bite, rounding out the bowl’s nutrition profile.
- Green onions
Thinly sliced for a bright, oniony zing that cuts through the richness and adds a fresh finishing touch.
- Sesame seeds
Toasted or raw, they add subtle nuttiness and a light crunch when sprinkled on top as a garnish.
- Vegetable oil
For frying, chosen for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, ensuring the chicken crisps up quickly and evenly.
HOW TO MAKE BANG BANG CHICKEN BOWL
Ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the cooking? These detailed steps will guide you through every stage, from marinating to plating, to ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl emerges picture-perfect and bursting with flavor.
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any drips and help the chicken crisp up evenly without sticking.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, placing them in a bowl with the buttermilk. Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge—this tenderizing step is key for juicy results.
3. In one shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper. In a second bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In a third bowl, whisk the beaten eggs until smooth and ready for dredging.
4. Working one piece at a time, first dredge the chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg, coating completely, and finally press firmly into the panko mixture so each piece is fully covered in crumbs.
5. In a large skillet, heat about a quarter-inch of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches, turning once, until they’re golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer each batch to a paper towel–lined plate to drain, then arrange on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the chicken for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is perfectly crispy.
7. While the chicken bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl to create your bang bang sauce. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired.
8. To assemble, spoon a generous base of jasmine rice into each bowl. Layer on the hot, crunchy chicken, then fan out avocado slices, sprinkle shredded carrots, edamame, and a handful of green onions around the edges.
9. Drizzle the bang bang sauce lavishly over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring every bite gets that luscious, tangy coating.
10. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nutty crunch, serve immediately, and dig in while everything is still hot and fresh!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BANG BANG CHICKEN BOWL
Serving this vibrant bowl is half the fun, and with a few simple touches you can elevate the experience even further. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or prepping meals for the week, these ideas will help you showcase your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl at its best.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil: A handful of chopped herbs brings bright, aromatic notes and a pop of green that contrasts beautifully with the orange-hued crunch of the chicken and bright veggies.
- Offer a citrus wedge: Present lime or lemon wedges alongside your bowls so guests can squeeze on extra acidity, adding another layer of refreshing zest that balances the creamy sauce.
- Create a DIY topping station: Arrange bowls of pickled radishes, cucumber slices, or crispy fried onions so everyone can personalize their bowl with extra crunch and flavor bursts.
- Pair with an icy beverage: A cold glass of iced green tea, sparkling lemonade, or even a light beer cuts through the richness and complements the sweet-spicy profile of the bang bang sauce.
HOW TO STORE BANG BANG CHICKEN BOWL
Knowing how to store your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl properly means you get to enjoy those vibrant flavors well beyond the first meal. Whether you’re meal-prepping or rescuing leftovers, careful storage keeps each component tasting fresh and maintains the perfect textures.
For best results, consider storing each component separately in airtight containers. This prevents the crispy chicken from softening and the rice from becoming gummy. If you find space in your fridge for multiple containers, divide items into chicken, rice, sauce, and fresh toppings like avocado and edamame.
- Refrigerator storage
Place cooled chicken pieces in a single layer in an airtight container. Store the rice in a separate container, and keep the sauce in a glass jar. Consume within 3–4 days for optimum taste and safety.
- Freezer-friendly option
Flash-freeze breaded chicken pieces on a parchment-lined tray for 1 hour before transferring them to a freezer bag. This prevents clumping and allows you to heat just what you need. Store for up to 1 month.
- Sauce preservation
Keep the bang bang sauce in a sealed jar or container. Stir well before serving and use within 5 days, shaking or whisking if it separates.
- Veggie prep
Store fresh toppings like shredded carrots, edamame, and green onions in zip-top bags or small containers with a paper towel to absorb moisture, preserving crispness for up to 4 days.
CONCLUSION
From the first crunch of the panko-coated chicken to the creamy, zingy swirl of bang bang sauce, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl has everything you love in a meal: vibrant colors, bold flavors, and a delightful blend of textures. We’ve walked through every step, from marinating the chicken in tangy buttermilk to frying it golden and baking it to perfection, and then assembling it atop fragrant jasmine rice with ribbons of avocado, carrot, and tender edamame. Along the way, we’ve sprinkled in tips on ingredient roles, serving suggestions that transform a simple dinner into a memorable gathering, and storage strategies that keep leftovers tasting just as fresh as day one. As an intermediate-level recipe that demands about 20 minutes of active prep plus a brief marinade, it’s perfect for cooks who enjoy hands-on time in the kitchen but crave a payoff that’s well worth the effort.
Feel free to print this article and save it in your recipe binder or digital folder for quick reference whenever you need a show-stopping lunch or dinner. You can find a handy FAQ below that addresses common questions—everything from how to adjust spice levels to substitutions if you’re in a pinch. If you decide to try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Drop your comments, questions, or any feedback below. Whether you’re curious about swapping in different veggies, adding more heat, or tweaking the cooking times, your insights help make this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl journey even more flavorful and fun. Happy cooking!
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Description
This bowl layers tender marinated chicken fried to golden perfection over fluffy jasmine rice, topped with creamy avocado, crisp veggies, and a tangy-sweet, spicy bang bang sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, and place in a bowl with buttermilk. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
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In one bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with salt and pepper. In another bowl, place the flour. In a third bowl, have your beaten eggs ready.
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Dip each chicken piece first into the flour, then egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
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Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels, then transfer to the baking sheet.
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Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 10-15 minutes until cooked through and crispy.
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For the sauce, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl.
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Assemble your bowl by placing a base of jasmine rice, adding fried chicken, avocado slices, carrots, edamame, and green onions.
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Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds to finish.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Note
- The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and delicious.
- For a spicier kick, add more sriracha to the bang bang sauce.
- Substitute jasmine rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
- For extra crunch, try adding thinly sliced radishes or cucumber.
- The bang bang sauce can also be used as a delicious dip for other appetizers.
