Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite comfort food adventure: the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! This delightful dish blends crispy, juicy chicken thighs with vibrant vegetables and a creamy, spicy sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Picture a warm bowl filled with fluffy rice, crisp broccoli, and a burst of color from shredded carrots, all topped with that irresistible bang bang sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a satisfying meal prep, this recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by marinating the chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This tenderizes the chicken and adds amazing flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl.
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Coat each piece evenly in the seasoned flour mixture.
- Place the coated chicken thighs in the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through.
- In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to create your bang bang sauce. Feel free to adjust the sriracha according to your spice preference!
- While the chicken is cooking, steam the broccoli florets until they’re bright green and tender but still crisp.
- To assemble your bowls, start with a generous scoop of cooked rice as the base. Arrange the crispy chicken on top, followed by steamed broccoli and a sprinkle of shredded carrots.
- Drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over everything, and then finish it off with a garnish of sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes or Tips
- For an extra kick, try adding more sriracha to the sauce or even a splash of lime juice for brightness.
- You can easily customize this bowl with your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers or snap peas.
- If you want a healthier option, try baking the chicken instead of frying. Just coat it as instructed and bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily uses frying and steaming techniques. Frying the chicken thighs gives them that crispy exterior, while steaming the broccoli ensures it remains vibrant and nutritious. If you’re unfamiliar with frying, make sure the oil is hot enough to avoid greasy chicken—test it by dropping a bit of flour in the oil; it should sizzle. Always use a meat thermometer for perfect chicken; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
FAQ
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute chicken breasts, but they may not be as juicy. Consider marinating them a bit longer for tenderness. - What can I serve with this dish?
This bowl pairs beautifully with a side of crispy wontons or a refreshing cucumber salad. - Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The bang bang sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days, allowing the flavors to meld together even further.
Conclusion
The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a delightful medley of flavors and textures that never fails to satisfy. With its crispy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tantalizing sauce, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy night in or impressing guests, this bowl is sure to steal the show. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the cooking magic begin!