Bang Bang Chicken Bowl: 5 Easy Steps for Meal Prep Success

Posted on July 26, 2025

When I think of easy lunch options that are both satisfying and delicious, my mind immediately goes to this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. Honestly, the combination of crispy chicken, fresh veggies, and that irresistible creamy sauce just hits the spot every time. The first time I made it, I was blown away by how simple it was to whip up, and now it’s a staple in my weekly meal prep. You know those hectic days when you just can’t even? This bowl is a lifesaver!

This recipe is all about convenience and flavor. You can prep everything in advance, making it perfect for busy weekdays or when you want a tasty meal without the fuss. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please picky eaters and health-conscious friends alike. From the crunch of the veggies to the zing of the sauce, each bite is a little slice of heaven. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good meal prep idea that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar?

Let’s dive into why you’re going to love this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl and how it can make your lunchtime routine so much easier!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This bang bang chicken bowl comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal prep.
Simple Ingredients: You won’t need to search high and low for ingredients; most of them are already in your kitchen!
Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores beautifully in the fridge, so you can make a batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve served this to friends and family, and it always gets rave reviews—kids and adults alike devour it!
Unbelievably Delicious: The creamy bang bang sauce adds a kick that takes the whole bowl to the next level of flavor.

What sets this recipe apart from others? It’s the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that really makes this dish sing! With a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, you’ll find yourself going back for seconds. Plus, the chicken is crispy, and the fresh veggies provide a nice crunch. Honestly, it’s comfort food, but it doesn’t leave you feeling weighed down. It’s like a little hug in a bowl!

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not just about taste; it’s about convenience and versatility. You can easily swap out proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy!

Ingredients Needed

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavors without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (120 mL) buttermilk
- 1 cup (100 g) panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (120 mL) mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups (150 g) cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup (150 g) shredded cabbage
- 1 cup (150 g) diced cucumbers
- 1/2 cup (75 g) shredded carrots
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish

Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! You can use leftover chicken or even swap in tofu for a vegetarian option. And if you want to make it gluten-free, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Equipment Needed

Before you get cooking, here’s a quick list of the equipment you’ll need:

A large mixing bowl for the chicken batter
A shallow dish or plate for the flour
A frying pan or skillet for cooking the chicken
A whisk for mixing the bang bang sauce
Measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements
A cutting board and knife for chopping veggies

If you don’t have a frying pan, you can also bake the chicken in the oven for a healthier option. Just keep an eye on it to make sure it gets crispy.

Preparation Method

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! Follow these simple steps:

Prepare the Chicken: In one bowl, season your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a second bowl, pour the buttermilk. In a third bowl, place the flour. Dip each chicken piece into the flour, then the buttermilk, and finally coat it in panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is well-coated!
Cook the Chicken: Heat your skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil (about 1/4 inch deep). Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the heat level to your liking.
Assemble the Bowls: Once the chicken is done, it’s time to put everything together. Start with a base of cooked rice, then layer on the shredded cabbage, diced cucumbers, and shredded carrots. Top it off with the crispy chicken pieces.
Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle the bang bang sauce over the top of the chicken and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately or store in meal prep containers for later!

Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing, and the final product will look like a colorful masterpiece!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl turns out perfectly, here are some tips I’ve learned along the way:

Don’t Rush the Chicken: Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If it’s not hot, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
Batch Cooking: If you’re making this for meal prep, consider cooking the chicken all at once and storing it separately from the other ingredients to keep everything fresh.
Experiment with the Sauce: If you enjoy a bit more heat, add more Sriracha! You can also try adding garlic powder or lime zest for additional flavor.

And don’t worry if you burn a piece or two—cooking is all about learning from our little mishaps!

Variations & Adaptations

Here are some fun ways to mix things up with your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl:

Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken for crispy chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based version.
Seasonal Veggies: Swap in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or roasted sweet potatoes depending on what you have.
Spicy Bang Bang: Add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick, or use a hotter chili sauce for the bang bang sauce.

Feel free to get creative! The beauty of a bowl like this is that you can adjust it to fit your cravings and dietary needs.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

For the best experience, serve your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl immediately while the chicken is still warm and crispy. Pair it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or sparkling water for a complete meal. If you’re prepping for the week, store the chicken and veggies separately in airtight containers. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer to regain that crispy texture. Just a few minutes on medium heat will do the trick!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is not just tasty—it’s also packed with nutrition! Here’s a quick look at what you’re getting:

High in protein from the chicken
Fiber-rich veggies, which promote digestion
Healthy fats from the mayonnaise and sesame seeds

It’s a balanced meal that can easily fit into various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and low-carb with simple swaps. Keep in mind that the sauce does contain sugar, so adjust the amount to suit your needs.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy lunch meal prep recipe, this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a must-try! With its incredible flavors and customizable nature, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Plus, the meal prep potential makes it perfect for busy lifestyles.

Don’t forget to have fun with it! Customize based on your preferences and let me know how it turns out. I’d love to hear about your variations and any tips you discovered along the way. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
How long can I store the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl? It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in airtight containers.
What can I substitute for buttermilk? You can use regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the acidity.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it? Absolutely! Just bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Is the sauce very spicy? The sauce has a mild kick, but you can adjust the Sriracha to your liking!

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