Introduction
If you’re looking to bring a burst of flavor to your dinner table, look no further than this Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! It’s a delightful combination of crispy chicken, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies, all drizzled with a creamy, spicy sauce that makes every bite a delicious adventure. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish is as flavorful as it is simple to make. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup chopped mixed vegetables (bell peppers, cucumbers, carrots)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
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
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make clean-up a breeze!
- In a medium bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is nicely coated for that additional flavor.
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, allowing any excess to fall off, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the vegetable oil over the chicken bites; this will help them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway to ensure even crispiness.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, garlic powder, and lime juice. Mix well and adjust the spice level to your liking.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and toss it in half of the Bang Bang sauce, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
- To assemble the bowls, add a scoop of rice to each bowl, top with the crispy chicken, fresh veggies, and drizzle with the remaining Bang Bang sauce.
- Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful explosion of flavors!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to mix up the vegetables based on what you have on hand—broccoli, snap peas, or shredded cabbage would all be great additions!
- If you prefer a milder sauce, simply reduce the amount of sriracha to suit your taste.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time; simply store the components separately in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your bowls.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve that irresistible crisp on the chicken, ensure you thoroughly coat each piece in flour, egg, and panko. Baking instead of frying keeps it lighter while still delivering that satisfying crunch. Don’t hesitate to toss the chicken in the sauce while it’s still warm for optimal flavor absorption!
FAQ
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more richness and flavor.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Is it okay to meal prep this dish? Yes! Store the components separately and combine them when ready to eat for the best texture.
Conclusion
This Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight with its vibrant colors and textures. Perfectly crispy chicken pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce and fresh veggies, making it a dish that your family will request time and time again. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a comforting meal that’s full of flavor and love!