Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, you absolutely can! The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is super easy to make gluten-free with a few tweaks. First, make sure your soy sauce or sweet chili sauce is certified gluten-free. Tamari is a great alternative. Also, check your sriracha and mayo labels—most are fine, but it's always best to double-check. If you're using store-bought sauces, hidden gluten can sometimes sneak in. Swap the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice if you're aiming for a grain-free version, too.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely! Just substitute the chicken with plant-based proteins. Tofu, tempeh, or even crispy chickpeas make excellent alternatives. Be sure to press the tofu before cooking to get the best texture. You can also marinate it in a light soy and garlic mix before pan-frying for added flavor. The Bang Bang sauce still works perfectly with plant-based proteins, and you won't miss the meat at all. It’s a win for both vegetarians and meatless Mondays!

How spicy is Bang Bang sauce?

The spice level of the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl really depends on how much sriracha you add. Generally, the sauce has a mild kick—just enough to wake up your taste buds without overwhelming them. If you're heat-sensitive, start with a small amount of sriracha and adjust to taste. On the flip side, spice lovers can dial it up by adding crushed red pepper flakes or extra chili sauce. Want a smoky twist? A touch of chipotle works wonders.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Bowls?

Yes and no. You can freeze the cooked chicken and rice, but it’s best to avoid freezing the sauce or raw veggies. Mayo-based sauces don’t freeze well—they tend to separate and become watery when thawed. If you do freeze the cooked components, store them in airtight freezer bags or containers. Label with the date and use within 2 months for best results. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat, and add fresh toppings and sauce for that just-made flavor.

Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe | Easy & Spicy Meal

Description

The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a quick and flavorful dish made with juicy grilled chicken, creamy spicy Bang Bang sauce, and a variety of fresh vegetables over rice. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for meal prep or a satisfying dinner and can be customized to suit different dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
1/2 cup julienned carrots
1/2 cup sliced cucumber
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Instructions

Mix olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken cubes and coat evenly.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth to make the Bang Bang sauce.
In serving bowls, add rice as the base and top with cabbage, carrots, cucumber, and green onions.
Place the cooked chicken on top of the veggies.
Drizzle Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and garnish with sesame seeds.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for meal prep.

Notes

Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Reduce or omit sriracha if you prefer mild spice.
Tofu or chickpeas can replace chicken for a vegetarian version.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 470
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, spicy chicken bowl, creamy chicken recipe, easy dinner, chicken meal prep, Asian chicken bowl, healthy chicken bowl