Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Spicy Indulgence in a Bowl

Emma here, and today I’m thrilled to share the delightful journey of creating a Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. This dish is a true testament to how simple ingredients can transform into a flavorful experience. The inspiration for this recipe came from my love for vibrant flavors and the joy of bringing people together with comforting meals.

When I first discovered the magic of combining mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, I knew I had found something special. The rich, creamy texture paired with a hint of spice makes for an unforgettable sauce that elevates any meal. With the Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, I wanted to create a dish that was not only delicious but also accessible and easy to prepare.

This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you crave something hearty yet healthful. The combination of marinated chicken, jasmine rice, and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. I hope you’ll find as much joy in making this dish as I do, and that it becomes a staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.

Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Discover how to make a delicious and nutritious Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl with our easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for a wholesome meal!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (240 ml) mayo
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) sweet chili sauce
• 3 tbsp (45 ml) sriracha
• 2 large chicken breasts cut in half (or 4 small chicken breasts)
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) water or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) brown sugar
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
• 1 tsp (5 ml) paprika
• 1 tsp (5 ml) onion powder
• 1/2 tsp (3 ml) ginger
• 1/2 tsp (3 ml) black pepper
• 1/2 tsp (3 ml) rice vinegar
• 1/4 tsp (1 ml) red chili flakes
• Salt if needed
• 4 cups (960 ml) cooked jasmine rice (or rice of preference)
• 2 cups (480 ml) shredded cabbage
• 1 cucumber (chopped)
• 1 green onion (chopped)
• Wonton strips (Optional)
• Sesame seeds (Optional)

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Instructions

1. Place the chicken breasts and marinade components into a medium bowl or a large Ziploc bag. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated by tossing it, then refrigerate for a minimum of 20-30 minutes.
2. As the chicken absorbs the marinade, prepare the bang bang sauce by combining mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in another medium bowl. Keep this mixture chilled until you are ready to use it.
3. Once the marination period is over, warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Place the chicken in the pan and cook without turning for approximately 8 minutes (reduce to 5 minutes for thinner pieces). Turn the chicken over and continue cooking until it is nicely browned and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Let the chicken sit undisturbed for 3-5 minutes before slicing each piece.
5. To put together the bowls, start with 1 cup of rice, then add 1/2 cup of cabbage and 1/4 cup of cucumber. Add a portion of wonton strips and a sliced chicken breast on top.
6. Finish each bowl with the bang bang sauce, a sprinkle of green onions, and a few sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the bang bang sauce for a lighter, tangier flavor. Add a dash of lime juice to the sauce for a citrusy kick that complements the sweet and spicy flavors. Top the bowls with crushed peanuts or cashews for extra crunch.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 25g

Keywords: chili chicken, spicy mayo, skillet chicken, Asian bowl, bang bang sauce, jasmine rice

Exploring the Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Fundamentals

The Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a flavorful fusion of marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a tantalizing sauce. This dish begins with juicy chicken breasts, cut in half to ensure even cooking. Marinating the chicken is crucial as it infuses flavor and tenderness. The marinade consists of soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, paprika, onion powder, ginger, black pepper, rice vinegar, and red chili flakes. These ingredients work together to create a harmonious blend of savory and spicy notes.

The bang bang sauce is the star of this meal. Combining mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha creates a creamy, spicy topping that ties all the components together. It’s important to keep the sauce chilled until serving to maintain its refreshing quality. The Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not only about flavor but also about balance. The jasmine rice provides a soft, fragrant base that complements the bold flavors of the chicken and sauce.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preparing the marinade in a medium bowl or a large Ziploc bag. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. While the chicken marinates, prepare the bang bang sauce by mixing the mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a separate bowl. Store this mixture in the fridge until needed.

As the chicken absorbs the marinade, cook the jasmine rice according to package instructions. Prepare the vegetables by shredding the cabbage, chopping the cucumber, and slicing the green onion. Having these components ready makes assembly quick and efficient once the chicken is cooked.

Crafting a Flavorful Bang Bang Experience

Technique

Cooking the chicken perfectly is essential to achieving the ideal Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the marinated chicken in the pan, allowing it to cook without turning for about 8 minutes. This method ensures a nice sear and locks in the juices. Flip the chicken and cook the other side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

After cooking, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. The key to a successful dish is patience, so resist the urge to cut into the chicken immediately.

Tips/tricks

To ensure the chicken absorbs maximum flavor, consider marinating it overnight. This extended marination enhances the taste and tenderness. If you’re short on time, even a quick 20-30 minute soak will yield delicious results. When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and a nice sear.

For a delightful crunch, consider adding wonton strips to your bowl. They provide a textural contrast to the tender chicken and soft rice. To enhance the presentation, garnish with sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions. These simple additions elevate the bowl, making it visually appealing and adding layers of flavor.

Perfecting Your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Perfecting results

The Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a canvas for your creativity. Feel free to adjust the spice level by altering the amount of sriracha in the sauce. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha or add more mayo to balance the heat. On the other hand, spice lovers can increase the sriracha or sprinkle extra red chili flakes.

Experiment with different vegetables to customize your bowl. Shredded carrots or bell peppers add vibrant color and additional nutrients. By incorporating seasonal produce, you can keep this recipe fresh and exciting year-round. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Troubleshooting/variations

If the chicken turns out too dry, consider using chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thighs are naturally juicier and forgiving in terms of cooking time. Another tip is to ensure the pan is hot before adding the chicken, which helps to sear the outside and keep the inside moist.

For those looking for a lighter option, serve the chicken over a bed of greens instead of rice. This variation turns the Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl into a refreshing salad, perfect for warm days. You can also explore similar recipes like the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers or the Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl with Coconut Lime Drizzle for more culinary inspiration.

Presenting Your Bang Bang Masterpiece

Serving/presentation

Assembling your Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a rewarding process. Start by placing a cup of cooked jasmine rice at the base of each bowl. Add a generous serving of shredded cabbage and chopped cucumber alongside the rice. Arrange the sliced chicken breast on top, creating an inviting presentation.

Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the chicken, allowing it to cascade over the vegetables and rice. Top with crunchy wonton strips, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and freshly chopped green onions. The final result is a vibrant, enticing bowl that appeals to both the eyes and taste buds.

Pairings/storage

While enjoying your Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, consider pairing it with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or a homemade lemonade. These drinks complement the dish’s flavors without overpowering them. In terms of storage, keep any leftover components separate for easy reheating and assembly.

Store the cooked chicken and sauce in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve again, reheat the chicken gently to maintain its tenderness. For more exciting recipes, explore creations like the 15-Minute Teriyaki Chicken Bowls or the Sous Vide Chicken Salad Bowl. These dishes offer quick, flavorful alternatives that are sure to delight your palate.

Conclusion

The Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this dish not only pleases the palate but also nourishes the body. By following the steps outlined, you can easily recreate this delightful meal in your own kitchen.

This recipe’s versatility allows for endless customization, making it a favorite for family meals or gatherings with friends. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, the Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl offers a delicious and approachable way to enjoy the art of cooking. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe and let it inspire new culinary adventures!

FAQs – Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl