Name: HIGH PROTEIN BANG BANG CHICKEN RICE BOWLS
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: Ingredients; • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces• 2 tablespoons olive oil• 1 teaspoon paprika• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder• Salt and black pepper, to taste• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice• 1 cup shredded carrots• 1 cup diced cucumbers• 1 cup shredded red cabbage• 2 green onions, sliced• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)• Fresh cilantro, for garnish; For the Bang Bang Sauce; • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for extra protein)• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)• 1 teaspoon honey• Juice of 1/2 lime

High Protein Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowls are a dynamic, flavor-packed meal perfect for those who crave bold taste while keeping nutrition a priority. Imagine succulent, juicy chicken pieces coated in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, nestled over a fluffy bed of rice with crunchy vegetables adding freshness and texture. Every bite is a delightful dance between creamy, spicy, savory, and fresh flavors!

This dish draws inspiration from the popular Bang Bang Shrimp concept, famous for its irresistible sauce, and transforms it into a protein-rich, satisfying bowl. It’s the ultimate meal prep hero, ideal for busy weeknights, post-workout dinners, or a fun, colorful weekend lunch. What makes this dish stand out is the clever balance of macronutrients—lean chicken for protein, wholesome rice for energy, and vibrant vegetables for fiber and micronutrients—all tied together with an addictive sauce that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite rice bowl!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup diced cucumbers
• 1 cup shredded red cabbage
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (for extra protein)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Juice of 1/2 lime

Step-by-Step

Step 1: Marinating and Cooking the Chicken

In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside to rest.

Step 2: Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
Taste the sauce and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired. Set aside.

Step 3: Assembling the Rice Bowls

Start by layering a generous scoop of cooked rice at the bottom of each bowl.
Arrange the cooked chicken, shredded carrots, diced cucumbers, and shredded cabbage around the bowl. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over the top. Sprinkle with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish.

Variations

• Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor.
• Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of jasmine rice for a lower-carb option.
• Add avocado slices for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
• Toss in edamame or roasted chickpeas for added protein and texture.

COOKING Note

• Always cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
• Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Prep your vegetables while the chicken cooks to save time and streamline your workflow.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of lime wedges for extra zing.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or cashews for a nutty crunch.
• Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness.

Discover more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration on our homepage.

Helpful Tips

• Cook the rice ahead of time or use microwaveable rice to speed up the process.
• Make extra Bang Bang sauce—it’s delicious on everything from salads to wraps!
• For meal prep, store the components separately and assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh.
• Use a mandoline slicer for evenly shredded vegetables and professional presentation.

For meal prep, store the components of your High Protein Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowls separately and assemble just before eating.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 520 kcal

Protein: 38g

Sodium: 720mg

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness early.
• Skimping on the sauce—the Bang Bang flavor is the star of the show!
• Using low-fat or fat-free yogurt without compensating with flavor—it can make the sauce taste flat.
• Crowding the skillet while cooking chicken, causing it to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.

Conclusion

High Protein Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowls are proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring! With their colorful presentation, irresistible flavor, and satisfying textures, these bowls check every box: quick to make, packed with nutrients, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re fueling up after a workout, prepping meals for a busy week, or simply craving something hearty yet fresh, this recipe will deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Plus, the flexibility to customize toppings and spice levels means you can truly make this dish your own. So grab your ingredients, whip up that dreamy Bang Bang sauce, and treat yourself to a bowl full of vibrant, energizing goodness today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this ahead of time ?
Yes! Cook the chicken, prep the rice and vegetables, and store them separately. Assemble just before eating to maintain freshness.

Is there a way to make it dairy-free?
Swap the Greek yogurt and mayo for a dairy-free option like cashew yogurt and vegan mayonnaise.

Can I make this spicier?
Definitely! Add extra sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce or sprinkle some crushed red pepper over the finished bowls.

What other proteins can I use?
Shrimp, tofu, or even grilled salmon would be fantastic in place of the chicken for different variations.

HIGH PROTEIN BANG BANG CHICKEN RICE BOWLS

Author: Caroline Jones
Total Time: 30
Yield: 4 servings

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