Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Bang Bang Chicken Bowls! This dish is a vibrant and satisfying medley of textures and flavors, featuring tender, golden-brown chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy, spicy sauce that ties it all together. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a meal prep option, these bowls will not only nourish your body but also tantalize your taste buds. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken with sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful oil and seasoning.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it achieves a lovely golden brown color and is cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Once done, remove it from the heat.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the bang bang sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Feel free to adjust the heat level to suit your preference!
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, toss in the broccoli florets and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and their vibrant colors come alive.
- To assemble the bowls, place a generous portion of cooked rice at the bottom. Layer it with the sautéed vegetables and the golden chicken pieces.
- Drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over the top, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Finish off by garnishing with shredded carrots and chopped green onions for that added crunch and burst of color.
- Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving to elevate the dish with a delightful nutty flavor.
Notes or Tips
For a vegetarian version, feel free to swap the chicken with tofu or chickpeas. You can also experiment with other vegetables like snap peas or zucchini for extra crunch. This dish is not only quick to make but also great for meal prep; layer everything in airtight containers and enjoy them throughout the week!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe involves sautéing, which helps to develop rich flavors while quickly cooking the ingredients. Be sure to preheat your skillet to get that perfect golden-brown crust on the chicken. Additionally, whisking the sauce components together ensures a creamy texture that clings beautifully to your ingredients.
FAQ
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat and add the sauce!
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level can easily be adjusted based on your liking; just modify the amount of sriracha in the sauce.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Bowls are a delightful way to enjoy a satisfying meal filled with flavor and nutrition. With the wonderful combination of savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, spicy sauce, this dish is bound to become a family favorite! Enjoy every delicious bite, and happy cooking!