Looking for a bowl that bursts with flavor, texture, and visual appeal? The Bang Bang Chicken Bowl checks all the boxes with spicy, creamy sauce, tender chicken, crisp cucumbers, and fresh greens. It’s not just a meal—it’s a crave-worthy experience that balances heat, crunch, and a touch of sweetness all in one bowl.

Whether you’re meal prepping or assembling a quick lunch, this recipe is both easy to pull off and endlessly satisfying. The spicy mayo drizzle over golden, seared chicken adds the signature “bang” while the fresh vegetables offer a cool, crunchy counterpoint.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the juiciest, most flavorful results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Chicken thighs tend to remain moist and tender even after searing, while breasts offer a leaner bite. Either works well depending on your preference—just ensure they are well seasoned and seared until golden.

Ingredients for the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Chicken (thighs or breasts): The star of the bowl, marinated or seasoned to bring bold flavor.
Romaine lettuce: Acts as a crisp, fresh base that supports the richness of the sauce and chicken.
Cucumbers: Thinly sliced for a refreshing crunch and cooling contrast to the spicy sauce.
Green onions: Add a mild bite and a burst of color to the final bowl.
Sesame seeds: Lend a slight nutty flavor and enhance the visual appeal.
Bang Bang Sauce (typically a mix of mayo, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce): This is where all the spicy-sweet magic happens.
Olive oil or neutral oil: Used for searing the chicken to a beautiful golden brown.
Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly.

How To Make the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat off your chicken thighs or breasts. Pat them dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. For extra flavor, marinate them in a mixture of garlic powder, soy sauce, and a splash of rice vinegar for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken in the pan and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sriracha, and 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust spice level to taste.

Step 4: Prepare the Bowl Ingredients

Wash and dry your romaine lettuce, then chop it into bite-size pieces. Slice cucumbers thinly, and chop green onions finely. Arrange them in a bowl as your base.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Add the seared chicken on top of your lettuce and cucumber base. Drizzle generously with the bang bang sauce. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for garnish.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve right away while the chicken is warm and the vegetables are crisp. Optionally, add cooked rice or noodles underneath for a heartier meal.

How to Serve and Store the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl

This dish is best served fresh while the chicken is still warm and juicy, and the veggies are crisp and refreshing. Serve it over a bed of chopped romaine lettuce or even rice or quinoa for a more filling meal. For toppings, don’t skip the bang bang sauce—it brings everything together.

To store leftovers, keep the components separate if possible. Store chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Vegetables should be stored separately to keep them from getting soggy. The sauce can be stored in a small jar or container for drizzling later.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the bang bang sauce?

The sauce has a moderate kick thanks to sriracha, but it can easily be adjusted. Add more mayo to mellow it or increase the sriracha for extra heat.

Can I use another protein?

Absolutely! Shrimp, tofu, or even crispy cauliflower work well with this bowl and the bang bang sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce in the marinade and checking that your chili sauce is gluten-free.

What can I serve with this bowl?

Try pairing it with jasmine rice, soba noodles, or even crispy wonton strips for added crunch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep all the components ahead and assemble just before serving to keep everything fresh and flavorful.

How do I make it healthier?

Use Greek yogurt in place of mayo for a lighter bang bang sauce and opt for grilled instead of pan-seared chicken.