The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Ultimate Easy Meal Prep Recipe is a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that’s as convenient as it is delicious. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken coated in a crispy panko crust, baked to golden perfection, and tossed with a creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy bang bang sauce. Served atop fluffy jasmine rice with fresh, crunchy vegetables, this bowl is a colorful celebration of texture and taste. Whether you’re prepping for the week ahead or craving a quick but satisfying dinner, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for a fuss-free, nutritious, and utterly enjoyable meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, whether it’s to add crunch, creaminess, zest, or color. The simplicity of the list belies the delicious complexity of the final dish, making it approachable without sacrificing amazing flavor.
- Chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds): Tender, lean protein cut into bite-sized pieces for perfect bite-sized goodness.
- Cornstarch (1/2 cup): Provides a light, crispy coating that helps the chicken stay crunchy even after baking.
- Eggs (2 large, beaten): Acts as the binding agent to hold the panko crust on the chicken pieces.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Creates that irresistible crispy texture that makes every bite exciting.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Adds a savory depth that complements the bold spices.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Gives a smoky warmth and vibrant color to the chicken coating.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Drizzled on top before baking for an extra crisp finish and rich flavor.
- Cooked jasmine rice (3 cups): The perfect pillowy base that balances the spicy and creamy notes.
- Shredded red cabbage (2 cups): Offers crunch and a pop of vibrant purple color.
- Shredded carrots (1 cup): Adds natural sweetness and bright orange hue.
- Cucumber slices (1 cup): Refreshing and cooling against the spicy sauce.
- Green onions (2, sliced): Fresh, mild onion flavor for a pleasant bite.
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a fragrant herbaceous lift to finish the bowl perfectly.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Forms the luscious, creamy base of the bang bang sauce.
- Sweet chili sauce (1/4 cup): Sweet and tangy, it’s the heart of the signature bang bang flavor.
- Sriracha (1 tbsp): Spicy heat that wakes up every taste bud.
- Honey (1 tbsp): Balances spiciness with gentle sweetness.
- Lime juice (1 tbsp): Provides zesty brightness that ties all the sauce flavors together.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Ultimate Easy Meal Prep Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and even cooking. Season the chicken pieces generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning mix creates a flavorful foundation that will shine through every bite.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Dredge each piece of chicken first in cornstarch, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. This three-step process is essential for achieving that signature crispy texture once baked. Be sure each piece is evenly coated to ensure consistent crunchiness.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the baking sheet and drizzle evenly with olive oil. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Baking rather than frying makes this an easier and healthier way to get that perfect crispy crust without the extra oil mess.
Step 4: Whip Up the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. This creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce is what elevates the entire dish and is guaranteed to get your taste buds tingling. Adjust the sriracha to your preferred spice level for a personalized touch.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the cooked jasmine rice evenly between four meal prep containers. Top each portion with the baked chicken, shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and sliced green onions. Generously drizzle with the bang bang sauce and finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for freshness and a burst of color.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Ultimate Easy Meal Prep Recipe
Garnishes
The simple garnishes of freshly chopped cilantro and sliced green onions add an extra layer of brightness and texture. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts to introduce a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
Side Dishes
This bowl is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a light side like steamed edamame, a cucumber salad, or even some quick pickled radish can round out your meal. The cool, fresh elements help balance the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your bang bang chicken bowl with crispy wonton strips on top or add a soft-boiled egg for extra protein and creaminess. You could even swap jasmine rice with cauliflower rice to lighten the dish while maintaining all the flavor and texture you love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once assembled, these bowls keep wonderfully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping the sauce separate until ready to eat helps maintain the crispness of the chicken and freshness of the veggies. It’s perfect for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
While the chicken can be frozen cooked, the fresh vegetables are best added after thawing or fresh on the day you eat the bowl. Freeze the baked chicken separately in portions and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in the oven or an air fryer to regain its crispy crust—microwaving tends to soften it too much. Warm the rice in the microwave if needed. Add fresh vegetables and sauce after reheating to keep everything tasting vibrant and fresh.
FAQs
Can I make this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl dairy-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally dairy-free since it uses mayonnaise instead of yogurt or sour cream. Just make sure your mayonnaise is dairy-free, and you’re all set.
How spicy is the bang bang sauce?
The sauce has a nice balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha depending on your preference.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work great and bring a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Ultimate Easy Meal Prep Recipe is designed for convenient make-ahead meals that hold up well in the fridge, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Can I substitute the rice for another grain?
Of course! Quinoa, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice are excellent swaps to customize the bowl to your liking while maintaining a great texture and taste balance.
Final Thoughts
The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Ultimate Easy Meal Prep Recipe is truly one of those dishes you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s got everything you want in a meal: bold flavors, satisfying crunch, fresh veggies, and an easy prep that fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle. Give it a try and watch it become your new favorite go-to for an effortless, exciting dinner or lunch.
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: Ultimate Easy Meal Prep Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is the ultimate easy meal prep recipe featuring crispy baked chicken coated with a flavorful blend of spices and panko breadcrumbs, served over jasmine rice with fresh veggies and drizzled with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. Perfect for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner, this Asian-inspired dish combines texture and vibrant flavors while being dairy-free and convenient for busy weeks.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Base and Vegetables
- 3 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure even cooking and easy cleanup.
- Season Chicken: In a bowl, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, making sure each piece is evenly coated for flavorful results.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge the seasoned chicken first in cornstarch, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat them evenly with panko breadcrumbs for a crispy texture after baking.
- Bake Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken to help achieve a golden, crispy exterior. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until pieces are golden brown and cooked through.
- Make Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth and creamy, balancing sweetness, heat, and tang.
- Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked jasmine rice evenly among four meal prep containers. Top each with baked chicken, shredded red cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and sliced green onions.
- Finish and Garnish: Drizzle plenty of bang bang sauce over each bowl to infuse it with bold flavor. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a fresh, herbal note. Store the bowls refrigerated until ready to serve.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, chicken can be air-fried at 375°F for 12 to 15 minutes instead of baking.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to control the spice level according to your preference.
- For a lighter version of the sauce, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Meal prep bowls will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, perfect for make-ahead lunches or dinners.
