Save The first time I encountered Bang Bang sauce was at a casual beachside shack where the server warned me about the heat but promised I would be back for more. She was right, that creamy-spicy combination became an instant obsession that I had to recreate in my own kitchen. Now this bowl has become my go-to when I want something that feels restaurant special but comes together in under an hour.
Last summer my sister visited for a week of what turned into impromptu recipe testing sessions in my tiny apartment kitchen. We made this bowl three times in five days, tweaking the sauce ratio each time until we achieved what she called the perfect harmony. Now whenever she texts me asking what to make for dinner, I send her this recipe.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs: I prefer thighs for extra juiciness but breasts work beautifully if that is what you have on hand
- Olive oil: A neutral oil works here but olive adds a subtle richness that complements the sauce
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that let the sauce shine while keeping the chicken perfectly seasoned
- Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone of the sauce, though Greek yogurt makes a lighter substitute
- Sweet chili sauce: This is the secret ingredient that adds depth and balances the sriracha heat
- Sriracha: Start with one teaspoon and adjust to your heat preference
- Honey: Optional but adds a lovely sweetness that rounds out all the flavors
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic makes a noticeable difference over powdered
- Rice: White or brown works equally well depending on your preference
- Vegetables: The combination of carrots, cucumber, and cabbage provides perfect crunch and color
- Sesame seeds and cilantro: These garnishes might seem optional but they truly elevate the final presentation
Instructions
- Cook the chicken to golden perfection:
- Heat that olive oil in your large skillet until it shimmers slightly, then add your seasoned chicken pieces. Let them develop a beautiful golden brown color on one side before stirring, about 6 to 8 minutes total.
- Whisk up the magic sauce:
- In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey if using, and that minced garlic until completely smooth. Taste and adjust the heat level to your liking.
- Coat the chicken generously:
- Pour about half of your sauce over the cooked chicken while it is still warm in the pan, tossing until every piece is beautifully coated and glossy.
- Build your beautiful bowls:
- Start with a base of fluffy rice in each bowl, then arrange the chicken and all those colorful vegetables in sections on top for maximum visual appeal.
- Finish with flair:
- Drizzle the remaining sauce over everything, then scatter those sesame seeds and fresh cilantro leaves for the final touch before serving immediately.
Save This recipe has transformed my approach to weeknight cooking from feeling like a chore to something I genuinely look forward to. There is something deeply satisfying about assembling these beautiful bowls and watching everyone customize their own perfect bite.
Making It Your Own
The beauty of this bowl lies in its adaptability to whatever you have in your refrigerator or whatever dietary needs your family follows. I have made countless variations and each one feels like a new discovery.
Perfect Pairings
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the creamy sauce beautifully while a cold beer works equally well. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lime provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Storage and Meal Prep
This recipe has become my Sunday meal prep secret because everything keeps beautifully for several days when stored properly. The key is keeping the sauce separate until you are ready to eat to maintain all those perfect textures.
- Store each component in separate containers for the freshest results throughout the week
- The sauce can be made up to five days ahead and actually tastes better after those flavors meld
- Reheat the chicken gently and add fresh vegetables right before serving to maintain that essential crunch
Save I hope this bowl becomes as much of a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine. There is nothing quite like the joy of watching someone take that first bite and immediately ask for the recipe.
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
The sauce has a mild to medium heat level. The sriracha provides adjustable spice—start with one teaspoon and increase to two if you prefer more kick. The sweet chili sauce and mayonnaise help temper the heat, making it approachable for most palates.
- → Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely. This meal prep friendly dish stores well for 3-4 days when refrigerated in airtight containers. Keep the sauce separate and drizzle just before serving to maintain the best texture. The flavors actually meld and improve after sitting overnight.
- → What vegetables work best in this bowl?
The classic trio includes shredded carrots, cucumber, and red cabbage for their crunch and color contrast. You can also add edamame, bell peppers, snap peas, or sliced radishes. Use whatever fresh, crisp vegetables you enjoy or have on hand.
- → Can I use grilled chicken instead of pan-seared?
Grilled chicken works wonderfully and adds a smoky depth. Marinate the seasoned chicken in a bit of oil and lime juice before grilling, then slice and toss with the sauce. You'll get lovely char marks that complement the creamy dressing.
- → How do I make this dairy-free?
Simply substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative or use plain Greek yogurt if you tolerate it. Most sweet chili sauces are naturally dairy-free, but always check labels. The resulting sauce remains creamy and satisfying without any dairy ingredients.
- → What rice variety pairs best?
Both white and brown rice work excellently. White rice offers a neutral canvas that lets the spicy sauce shine. Brown rice adds nutty flavor and extra fiber. For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice or quinoa as your base.