Name: Bang Bang Chicken Rice: 7 Reasons to Love This Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts or boneless thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces); ½ cup buttermilk; ½ cup cornstarch; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper (to taste); Vegetable oil (for frying); ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1½ tbsp sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp sriracha; 1 tsp honey; 1 tsp rice vinegar; 1 cup cooked jasmine or brown rice; 1 cup shredded mixed greens; ½ cup cucumber (thinly sliced); 1 carrot (julienned or ribboned); Fresh cilantro (chopped); Lime wedges (for garnish)

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Bang Bang Chicken Rice is a delightful dish that has captivated taste buds with its crispy, saucy chicken and bold flavors. This Asian-inspired meal combines tender fried chicken pieces tossed in a creamy, sweet-and-spicy bang bang sauce, layered over rice and fresh vegetables. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. Let’s dive into how to make this easy and delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Rice

This dish is not only a treat for your palate but also a versatile option for various dining occasions:

Quick and Easy: The Bang Bang Chicken Rice recipe takes just 45 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Bold Flavors: The combination of sweet chili sauce and sriracha creates a spicy chicken rice dish that is both savory and satisfying.
Customizable: You can adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables, making this Asian-style chicken rice your own.
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prep; you can make it in advance for quick lunches throughout the week.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the crispy chicken and creamy sauce, making it a hit among families.
Gluten-Free Option: With simple substitutions, you can easily make this dish gluten-free.
Impressive Presentation: Layering the chicken over colorful vegetables makes for a beautiful meal.

Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Rice

Gather these items:

2 chicken breasts or boneless thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
½ cup buttermilk
½ cup cornstarch
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
¼ cup mayonnaise
1½ tbsp sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp sriracha
1 tsp honey
1 tsp rice vinegar
1 cup cooked jasmine or brown rice
1 cup shredded mixed greens
½ cup cucumber (thinly sliced)
1 carrot (julienned or ribboned)
Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Lime wedges (for garnish)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to a bowl and pour over the buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes to help keep the chicken tender and juicy.
Step 2: Prep the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken: Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Heat oil about 1 inch deep in a pan over medium-high heat. Working in batches, fry the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to paper towels or a wire rack to drain.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth.
Step 5: Toss and Assemble: Just before serving, toss the crispy chicken in the bang bang sauce. To assemble the bowls, layer rice, mixed greens, cucumber, and carrot. Top with the sauced chicken, then finish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Rice

Keep these in mind:

Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right temperature for frying; this prevents greasy chicken.
Let the chicken rest after frying; it helps maintain its juiciness.
Experiment with different vegetables—avocado or bell peppers can add more flavor and nutrition.
Consider making a double batch of the bang bang sauce; it’s great for dipping other dishes!

Best Ways to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Rice

Here are a few serving ideas:

Serve with lime wedges for an extra zing of freshness.
Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
Consider making a Bang Bang Chicken sandwich by using the chicken in a bun with lettuce and sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Bang Bang Chicken Rice

To store leftovers, place the chicken and rice in airtight containers. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place in the microwave or an oven until warmed through. This dish is perfect for quick quick Bang Bang Chicken Rice meals throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Chicken Rice

What is Bang Bang Chicken Rice?

Bang Bang Chicken Rice is a flavorful Asian-inspired dish featuring crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, served over rice and fresh vegetables. It’s a popular choice for anyone seeking a satisfying meal.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble just before serving for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Bang Bang Chicken Rice?

Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to avoid greasy results. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to ensure even cooking.

Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Rice You Can Try

There are many ways to enjoy this dish:

Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option—perfect for those asking, Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Rice vegetarian?
Try using brown rice instead of jasmine for a healthier twist.
Add different sauces like hoisin or sesame for a unique flavor profile.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables to give your dish a fresh take.