Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a dish that delivers a burst of flavor with every bite, look no further than this delightful Bang Bang Chicken Bowl! It’s a perfect combination of crispy fried chicken and fresh, vibrant vegetables, all harmoniously mingled over a bed of fluffy rice. This meal is not just visually appealing but is also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun weekend gathering, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup Bang Bang sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by soaking the chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy.
- While the chicken soaks, prepare your breading by combining the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Once the chicken has soaked, remove it from the buttermilk and dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture. Make sure every inch is coated!
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan generously.
- When the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken pieces to the pan. Let them cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to drain on paper towels to catch any excess oil.
- In serving bowls, start layering your dish by adding the cooked rice as the base, then pile on the shredded carrots, fresh cucumber slices, and creamy avocado.
- Slice the crispy fried chicken and arrange it atop the vibrant bed of rice and vegetables.
- Drizzle generously with Bang Bang sauce, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for that extra pop of flavor.
- Serve immediately and relish in the deliciousness!
Notes or Tips
For an added crunch, consider tossing in some chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews. If you’re short on time, feel free to use pre-cooked rice to make this meal even quicker. And don’t hesitate to adjust the spice level of your Bang Bang sauce to suit your taste—it’s meant to be a fun and interactive dish!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe employs a simple yet effective frying technique that achieves that perfect crispiness while keeping the chicken juicy inside. The buttermilk marinade helps tenderize the chicken, while the seasoned flour creates a delectable crust when fried. Managing oil temperature is key to getting that golden brown color without overcooking the chicken.
FAQ
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and let it marinate in the buttermilk ahead of time, or even fry it earlier in the day and reheat it in the oven to maintain its crispiness.
What can I substitute for Bang Bang sauce?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try a sweet chili sauce mixed with a little mayonnaise for a creamy texture or even a spicy sriracha mayo for more heat!
Conclusion
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is an explosion of flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s a beautifully balanced meal that combines crispy, tender chicken with crunchy veggies and the nutty richness of avocado. Enjoy this dish with your family on a cozy night in, or impress your friends at your next gathering. Regardless of the occasion, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for years to come!