What is bang bang chicken made of?

Bang bang chicken is traditionally made with poached or shredded chicken served with a spicy, savory sesame sauce in Sichuan cuisine. The modern Western version typically includes breaded or grilled chicken, coated in a creamy sauce made from mayonnaise, Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and garlic powder. It’s often served over rice or greens as part of a complete bang bang chicken bowl .

What is a bang bang bowl?

A bang bang bowl is a full meal-in-a-bowl that includes crispy chicken (or a vegetarian alternative), a flavorful base like rice or lettuce, fresh vegetables, and the signature bang bang sauce. It combines textures—crunchy, creamy, and juicy—along with sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite. These bowls are easy to customize, which makes them perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.

What is Bang Bang made of?

The bang bang sauce is the heart of the dish. It’s typically made of: Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist) Sriracha (or your favorite hot sauce) Sweet chili sauce or honey Rice vinegar or lime juice Garlic powder This creamy, spicy-sweet combo is what gives the bang bang chicken bowl its name and signature taste. Some variations may include crushed peanuts or sesame oil for a little extra depth.

What do you serve with bang bang chicken?

Bang bang chicken pairs beautifully with light, refreshing sides that balance its richness. Popular choices include: Cucumber salad with rice vinegar Asian-style slaw Roasted broccoli or green beans Steamed edamame Jasmine rice or cauliflower rice For drinks, stick with something crisp and cool like iced green tea, sparkling water with lemon, or a light white wine.

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl – The Best Easy & Flavor-Packed Bowl Recipe

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
Salt, pepper, and paprika (for seasoning)
Oil for frying (or spray if baking/air frying)
1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Base: jasmine rice, brown rice, cauliflower rice, or shredded lettuce
Toppings: shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, chopped scallions, avocado, sesame seeds, fresh cilantro

Instructions

Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Optional: marinate in buttermilk or yogurt for 30 minutes.
Coat chicken pieces in a mix of flour and cornstarch.
Cook using your preferred method: fry in oil until golden, bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, or air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.
In a bowl, mix mayonnaise (or yogurt), sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, vinegar/lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
Prepare bowl base: cook rice or use greens, and arrange in a serving bowl.
Add crispy chicken on top and drizzle generously with bang bang sauce.
Finish with desired toppings and serve immediately or pack for meal prep.

Notes

To meal prep, store sauce separately from chicken and base to maintain crispiness. For a lighter option, use grilled chicken and cauliflower rice. This sauce also pairs well with tofu, shrimp, or veggies, making it easy to customize.

Author: Ava
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop / Oven / Air Fryer
Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 520
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 690mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 22g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe, spicy chicken bowl, crispy chicken rice bowl, bang bang sauce chicken, easy dinner bowl recipe