Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure with our Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! This dish is a vibrant blend of crispy chicken, fragrant jasmine rice, and an irresistible sauce that brings it all together. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe is infused with flavor and texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Join me as we create a comforting, colorful bowl that’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the jasmine rice according to package instructions. Once it’s fluffy and aromatic, set it aside to cool slightly.
- Next, cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, then season them generously with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. This is the key to frying chicken that’s golden brown and mouthwateringly good!
- Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through.
- While the chicken sizzles, prepare the bang bang sauce by combining the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- To assemble your bowls, divide the fluffy jasmine rice among serving bowls, making a lovely base.
- Top each bowl with a generous portion of the crispy chicken, then add the vibrant shredded carrots, refreshing sliced cucumber, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a burst of color.
- Finish it off by drizzling the delicious bang bang sauce generously over the chicken and garnishing with fresh cilantro. Enjoy!
Notes or Tips
- For extra crunch, consider double-dipping your chicken in the cornstarch before frying.
- If you prefer a milder sauce, adjust the sriracha to suit your taste.
- You can easily substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes frying, which is an excellent technique for achieving that blissfully crispy coating on your chicken. Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; if it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb the oil and become greasy instead of crispy. And remember, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can dramatically lower the oil temperature.
FAQ
- Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. However, the chicken is best served fresh for maximum crispiness. - What side dishes go well with this bowl?
This dish is hearty on its own, but if you’re looking to add more greens, a simple side salad pairs wonderfully!
Conclusion
Your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is ready to make its grand entrance to the dinner table! With its harmony of textures and flavors, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a comforting treat for the palate. Enjoy every bite of this deliciousness and don’t forget to share with your loved ones — after all, good food is meant to be shared!