Spicy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe (Print Version)

Craving a flavor explosion? This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is crunchy, creamy, and spicy. My personal recipe is a weeknight game-changer!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Dietary: Dairy-free (use dairy-free mayo), Nut-free (check ingredients)

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken & Base

01 - 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
02 - ½ cup cornstarch
03 - 1 large egg, whisked
04 - ½ cup vegetable oil, for frying
05 - 3 cups cooked rice, for serving

→ Bang Bang Sauce Essentials

06 - ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat for best results)
07 - ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
08 - 2-3 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
09 - 1 tbsp honey
10 - 1 tbsp rice vinegar
11 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (optional)

→ Fresh Toppings & Garnish

13 - ½ cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
14 - 1 large carrot, shredded or julienned
15 - 2 green onions, chopped
16 - 1 tbsp sesame seeds
17 - ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, let's get that chicken ready for its big moment. I slice my chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, usually about an inch. Then, in one bowl, I whisk an egg, and in another, I put the cornstarch. I dunk each chicken piece into the egg first, letting any excess drip off, and then into the cornstarch, making sure it’s completely coated. This is where I learned my lesson about not rushing! You want a good, even coating for that crispy exterior. Honestly, I find this part a little messy, but it’s worth it.
02 - Heat about half an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You'll know it's ready when a tiny piece of cornstarch-coated chicken sizzles immediately. Carefully add the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan – this is crucial for crispiness! I usually have to do this in two batches. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. I always keep an eye on it because sometimes it browns faster than I expect. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil.
03 - Now for the magic! In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha (adjust to your heat preference, remember my watery-eyed incident!), honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger if you're using it. Whisk it all together until it's super smooth and creamy. I usually taste it at this point and tweak it – maybe a little more Sriracha, or a touch more honey. It should be a beautiful balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy. This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl sauce is really the star!
04 - Once the chicken is fried and the sauce is mixed, it’s time to bring them together. In a large bowl, gently toss the crispy chicken pieces with the Bang Bang sauce until every piece is beautifully coated. You want it drenched, but not swimming! I sometimes use tongs for this, it feels more delicate. The smell at this stage is incredible, honestly, it makes my mouth water every single time. Try not to eat it all before it makes it to the bowl!
05 - Grab your favorite serving bowls. Spoon a generous amount of cooked rice into the bottom of each. Then, artfully arrange the sauced Bang Bang chicken over the rice. This is where you get to make it look pretty! I usually pile it high. Don't worry if it's a little messy, that's just real life, right? It's all about that flavor explosion in every bite. This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is almost ready!
06 - Finish off your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl with a sprinkle of thinly sliced cucumber and shredded carrots for that fresh crunch. Add a generous scattering of chopped green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a handful of fresh cilantro. These garnishes aren't just for looks; they add so much texture and flavor! Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in. Honestly, it’s such a satisfying meal, and it rarely lasts long in my house.

# Notes:

01 - Getting the chicken extra crispy means not overcrowding the pan; I learned this the hard way with a soggy batch.
02 - Always taste your Bang Bang sauce before adding it to the chicken – adjust the Sriracha and honey to your exact preference.
03 - Don't forget the fresh garnishes; they really elevate the dish and add a much-needed textural contrast.
04 - For a brighter flavor, a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving is a game-changer.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large skillet
02 - mixing bowls
03 - whisk
04 - tongs

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 650
Total Fat: 35g
Total Carbohydrate: 60g
Protein: 30g

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