Spicy Peanut Bang Bang Chicken Bowl Recipe (Print Version)

Spicy Peanut Bang Bang Chicken Bowl brings creamy, crunchy, and zesty flavors together. A quick, satisfying meal with a kick! Perfect for busy evenings.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Dietary: Contains Peanuts

# Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
02 - 1 tbsp cornstarch
03 - 1 tbsp neutral oil (like vegetable or canola)

→ Creamy Bang Bang Sauce

04 - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
05 - 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
06 - 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
07 - 1 tbsp rice vinegar
08 - 1 tbsp honey
09 - 1-2 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
10 - 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
11 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ For the Bowl & Garnish

12 - Cooked white rice (or brown rice, quinoa, noodles)
13 - 1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned
14 - 2 carrots, julienned or shredded
15 - 2 green onions, sliced
16 - 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

→ Optional Extras

17 - Lime wedges, for serving
18 - Fresh cilantro, chopped
19 - Crushed roasted peanuts

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, let's get that chicken ready. I like to cut my chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, maybe about an inch or so. Then, toss them with a tablespoon of cornstarch until each piece is lightly coated. This step is super important for that lovely crispy texture we’re aiming for. Honestly, I once skipped this, thinking "it'll be fine," and the chicken was just... soft. Not the vibe we want. Make sure they're evenly coated, like little powdery pillows ready for the pan.
02 - While the chicken is chilling (literally, if you have time, but I rarely do), let's make that magic Bang Bang sauce! In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, a good squeeze of sriracha, and those lovely minced ginger and garlic. I love how it starts out kind of thick and then smooths out into this creamy, dreamy concoction. Give it a taste here—this is where you can adjust the spice or sweetness. I always add a little more sriracha because, well, I like things zesty!
03 - Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your chicken in a single layer. Now, this is crucial: don't overcrowd the pan! If you do, the chicken will steam instead of sear, and we want crispy. You might need to do this in two batches, and that’s totally okay. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. I always find myself taking a sneaky bite right off the pan at this stage—it smells so good!
04 - Once all your chicken is cooked, return it to the skillet. Pour that glorious Bang Bang sauce all over the chicken. Stir it gently to coat every piece evenly. The sauce will thicken slightly as it heats, clinging beautifully to the chicken. This is where the whole kitchen starts smelling incredible, and honestly, I get so excited for dinner at this point. Just a minute or two to warm through, and you’re golden.
05 - Grab your favorite bowls! I usually start with a base of fluffy white rice, but brown rice or even quinoa works wonderfully if that's your thing. Then, spoon a generous amount of that saucy, crispy chicken over the rice. Next, arrange your fresh veggies—the crunchy cucumber and vibrant carrots. It’s like painting a little edible masterpiece, honestly. I love how colorful it looks, all ready to be devoured.
06 - Almost there! Finish off your delicious bowl with a sprinkle of fresh green onions and a handful of toasted sesame seeds. If you're feeling extra, a wedge of lime on the side for a fresh squeeze is always a good idea. Take a moment to admire your handiwork, because you just created something truly delicious and satisfying. Serve it up immediately and get ready for some happy sighs around the table!

# Notes:

01 - Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken; it's a rookie mistake I made too many times, and it leads to steamed, not crispy, chicken.
02 - Taste the Bang Bang sauce before adding it to the chicken and adjust the sriracha and honey to your liking—everyone's spice tolerance is different, right?
03 - Always use fresh ginger and garlic if you can; the flavor is so much more vibrant and makes a huge difference in this dish.
04 - For a beautiful presentation, arrange your fresh veggies artfully around the chicken and rice in the bowl.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large skillet
02 - whisk
03 - mixing bowls
04 - sharp knife

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 550-650
Total Fat: 30-40g
Total Carbohydrate: 50-60g
Protein: 40-50g

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