Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re craving something spicy, sweet, and incredibly flavorful, this Bang Bang Chicken recipe is just what you need! Featuring tender chicken thighs, a zesty Bang Bang sauce, and crunchy cucumber slices, these bowls are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. 

With a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs, they’re not just delicious but also nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of sriracha, sweet garlic chili oil, and honey creates a sauce that’s both spicy and sweet, elevating the flavor of chicken thighs.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious meal ready after just 15 minutes of prep, plus the cook times.
• Versatile: Customize these bowls with your favorite grains, veggies, and toppings to make them your own.
• Easy Meal Prep: These bowls keep well in the fridge, making them an ideal option for meal prepping for the week.

Why Chicken Thighs?

Chicken thighs are a great choice for this recipe because they are juicy, flavorful, and hold up well to the bold Bang Bang sauce. I prefer them as they have more flavor and reheat well without drying out in the microwave. Chicken breast could work in this recipe too, but they might be less flavorful..

What Does Sriracha Add to a Bang Bang Chicken Recipe?

Sriracha adds a spicy kick that is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of honey and the creaminess of mayo. It enhances the flavor of the chicken without overpowering it, making each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients in Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ¼ cup Sriracha Mayo
• 1 tablespoon Sweet Garlic Chili Oil
• 1 tablespoons honey
• 2 cups cooked rice (I like Lundberg’s Short Grain Brown Rice for these)
• 1 cup cucumbers, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or everything but the bagel seasoning, optional for garnish

Substitutions and Swaps

• Chicken thighs: Use chicken breasts or tofu for a leaner or vegetarian option.
• Sweet garlic Chili Oil: Replace with regular chili oil or omit if you prefer less heat.
• Honey: Use agave nectar or maple syrup for a vegan option.
• Sriracha mayonnaise: Try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter or plant-based version.
• Rice: Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for more fiber.

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel.
3. Coat with a drizzle of olive oil, salt and pepper.
4. Bake chicken for 45 minutes or until cooked to 165 degrees F.
5. Prepare the bang bang sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the sriracha, sweet garlic chili oil, honey, and mayonnaise until well combined.
6. Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and drizzle it with the prepared Bang Bang sauce.
7. Assemble the Bowls: In each bowl, add a base of cooked rice. Top with sliced cucumbers, and the chicken.
8. Garnish: Sprinkle with everything but the bagel seasoning if desired, and add an extra drizzle of sauce for additional flavor.
9. Serve: Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bowls!

Storage Instructions

• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can You Freeze?: While the chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months, it’s best to store vegetables separately or add them once you’re ready to eat to maintain their crispness.

Reheating Instructions

• Reheat the chicken in the oven, air fryer or in the microwave until warmed through.
• Serve the veggies cold or at room temperature to maintain their freshness and crunch.

Tips for Delicious Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

• Make It Spicier: Add extra sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce if you love heat.
• Add Crunch: Top with chopped peanuts or crispy wontons for an added crunch.
• Lighten It Up: Use a light mayo or Greek yogurt in the sauce to reduce calories and fat.
• Lower Sugar: Omit the honey or use a sugar-free alternative if monitoring sugar intake.

More Healthy Recipes to Try

1. Blueberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats (High Protein)
2. Ninja CREAMi Strawberry Ice Cream (3 Ingredients)
3. Homemade Hamburger Helper Cheeseburger Macaroni

FAQs

Can I make these bowls ahead of time?

Yes, prepare all components and store them separately. Assemble the bowls just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, shredded carrots, or edamame for extra nutrition and flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use a vegan mayo for the sauce.