Name: Bang Bang Chicken Rice: 5 Bold Flavors You’ll Love
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 become a favorite for its crispy texture, bold flavors, and satisfying ingredients. This dish features tender fried chicken tossed in a creamy, sweet-and-spicy bang bang sauce, served over a bed of rice and fresh vegetables. With its roots in Asian cuisine, specifically Thai, this dish is a perfect combination of flavor and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, let’s dive into how to make this incredible meal!

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Rice

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Bang Bang Chicken Rice. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a great option for weeknight dinners. The dish combines the crispy, fried chicken with a creamy sauce that provides a delightful kick. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile recipe. Plus, it’s a great meal prep option, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers. You’ll also find it to be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or parties. Lastly, it’s gluten-free, making it accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy the blend of flavors in this spicy chicken rice dish that is sure to please!

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.
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. 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: 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 fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the vegetables and herbs.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to ensure a crispy texture.
For extra crunch, consider double frying the chicken.
Experiment with different sauces to create your own unique Bang Bang Chicken Recipe.

Best Ways to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Rice

This dish is best served immediately while the chicken is hot and crispy. Pair it with a side of lime wedges for an extra zing. You can also serve it alongside a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli for added nutrition. For those looking for a heartier meal, serve it with fried rice or noodles. This Bang Bang Chicken with Rice is sure to satisfy!

Bang Bang Chicken Rice: 5 Bold Flavors You’ll Love - Bang Bang Chicken Rice - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Bang Bang Chicken Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or in a frying pan to get the chicken crispy again. This is a great Bang Bang Chicken Rice for meal prep as you can easily portion it out for lunches throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Chicken Rice

What’s the secret to perfect Bang Bang Chicken Rice?

The secret lies in marinating the chicken in buttermilk to keep it tender and juicy, and ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying, which gives it that perfect crispy texture.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just fry the chicken fresh when you’re ready to serve for optimal crispiness.

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

Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Ensure each piece has enough space to fry evenly.

Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Rice You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with different proteins like shrimp or tofu for an authentic Bang Bang Chicken Rice. You can also add seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for a crunchier texture. For a twist on the sauce, try adding peanut butter for a nutty flavor. The options are endless with this easy Bang Bang Chicken Rice recipe!

For more delicious chicken recipes, check out Crockpot Butter Chicken or Chicken Noodle Egg Drop Soup. If you’re interested in meal prepping, you might also enjoy Creamy Chicken Rice Casserole.