Healthy Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe Easy & Perfect for Meal Prep

Imagine the tangy, creamy, spicy goodness of bang bang sauce drizzled over tender chicken, crisp veggies, and fluffy rice—just the thought of it makes my mouth water! The first time I made this recipe, I was hooked by the vibrant colors and bold flavors. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but is actually packed with wholesome ingredients. And let me tell you, my family couldn’t stop raving about it. Even my picky eater went back for seconds!

Years ago, I stumbled upon a recipe for bang bang chicken at a restaurant and decided to recreate it at home—just a little healthier. After some trial and error (and taste testing galore), I landed on this version. It’s now my go-to for meal prep, busy weeknights, or even when I’m hosting a casual dinner. This recipe is like a warm hug with a spicy kick. Oh, and it’s dangerously easy to make, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself whipping it up every week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and a lightened-up bang bang sauce.
• Customizable: Swap out the veggies or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Kid-Friendly: Mild enough for little ones but easy to spice up for adults.
• Full of Flavor: The bang bang sauce is creamy, tangy, and spicy—it takes this bowl to the next level.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance between indulgence and nourishment. You get all the creamy, spicy satisfaction of bang bang chicken but without the heavy frying or excessive sugar. Plus, it’s a recipe that feels like a treat but fuels your body with good-for-you ingredients. Whether you’re prepping lunches for the week or serving dinner to guests, this dish has you covered.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without fuss. Most are pantry staples you likely already have, and the fresh ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store.

• For the Chicken:
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
  • 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
• For the Bowl:
  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Feel free to swap the veggies for your favorites or what’s in season—bell peppers, edamame, or shredded cabbage all work beautifully!

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or non-stick pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk for the sauce
• Rice cooker (optional, but makes life easier!)
• Sharp knife and cutting board

If you don’t have a rice cooker, a regular saucepan works just fine for cooking your rice or grains. And for the bang bang sauce, any sturdy whisk or fork will do the trick—no fancy tools required!

Preparation Method

1. Cook the rice: Prepare your jasmine rice according to package instructions. Set aside and keep warm.
2. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, toss cubed chicken with olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Let sit for 5-10 minutes while you prep the sauce.
3. Make the bang bang sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Taste and adjust the spice level as needed.
4. Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Assemble the bowls: Divide cooked rice between bowls. Top with cooked chicken, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and chopped green onions.
6. Drizzle with sauce: Generously spoon the bang bang sauce over each bowl. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
7. Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately while warm, or refrigerate for meal prep.

Pro tip: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or rice vinegar to thin it out. And don’t forget to taste-test the sauce as you go—it’s the star of the show!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Keep an eye on it to ensure it stays tender and juicy.
• Customize the spice level: Add more or less sriracha depending on your heat preference.
• Prep ahead: Make the sauce and chop veggies in advance to save time.
• Use fresh veggies: Crisp, colorful veggies make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Keep the sauce balanced: Taste as you go—adjust sweetness or tanginess to suit your palate.

If you’re new to cooking chicken, try cutting the pieces evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate. And don’t be afraid to experiment with the sauce—it’s versatile and forgiving!

Variations & Adaptations

• Low-Carb Option: Swap jasmine rice for cauliflower rice or zoodles.
• Vegetarian Version: Use crispy tofu or roasted chickpeas instead of chicken.
• Seasonal Twist: Add roasted sweet potatoes or sautéed zucchini for a fall-inspired bowl.
• Allergen-Friendly: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for those avoiding soy.

Personally, I love swapping out the chicken for shrimp when I’m craving seafood—it’s just as delicious and cooks in minutes!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is best served warm, but it’s equally tasty cold if you’re packing it for lunch. Pair it with a refreshing iced green tea or sparkling water for a light, satisfying meal.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken and rice for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Pro tip: The flavors develop beautifully overnight, so don’t hesitate to make this ahead of time for a busy week!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional benefits of this healthy bang bang chicken bowl:

• High in Protein: Lean chicken breast provides a hefty dose of protein to fuel your day.
• Rich in Vitamins: Fresh veggies like carrots and cucumbers are packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
• Lower in Calories: By using Greek yogurt instead of mayo, the sauce is lighter without sacrificing creaminess.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make this dish safe for gluten-free diets.

Remember, you can adjust ingredients to meet your dietary preferences or allergies—it’s a recipe that truly works for everyone!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, healthy, and bursting with flavor, this healthy bang bang chicken bowl is your answer. It’s customizable, great for meal prep, and sure to become a favorite in your household. Honestly, every time I make it, I’m reminded why I love it—it’s satisfying without being heavy, quick without sacrificing taste.

Give it a try and let your creativity shine! Add your favorite veggies, tweak the spice level, or experiment with different proteins. I’d love to hear how you make it your own—leave a comment below and share your version!

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is one you’ll want to bookmark. It’s a keeper!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the sauce, cook the chicken, and chop the veggies in advance. Store everything separately and assemble when ready to eat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

What can I use instead of chicken?

Try tofu, shrimp, or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian or pescatarian option.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Simply reduce or increase the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce to suit your taste.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store cooked chicken and rice in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat when ready.

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