Creamy, spicy, and packed with over 40 grams of protein — this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl delivers restaurant flavor in under 25 minutes. Juicy chicken tossed in a light Greek yogurt-based sauce, layered over jasmine rice with crisp veggies — it’s the perfect balance of heat, crunch, and freshness for your weekly meal prep.
If there’s one recipe that proves healthy food can still hit every craving, it’s this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. I first tried it after a long day at the gym — craving something creamy, spicy, and satisfying without undoing my progress. One bite in, and I knew this dish was going to be a regular in my rotation.
What makes it special isn’t just the flavor. It’s the high-protein payoff — lean chicken breast, Greek yogurt instead of mayo, and a sauce that’s as rich as takeout but made with real, whole ingredients. Each bite feels indulgent, yet it supports your goals: muscle recovery, energy, and that post-workout satisfaction we all want. It’s one of those meals that checks every box — high in protein, full of flavor, and quick enough for busy days.
The creamy Bang Bang sauce gets its kick from a simple trio: Greek yogurt, chili paste, and a hint of honey. Tossed with tender pan-seared chicken and served over jasmine rice or brown rice, it’s a bowl that feels gourmet but takes minimal effort. I love using my Escali Primo Digital Food Scale to portion the chicken perfectly for each bowl — it’s simple, compact, and makes macro tracking a breeze.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or just need a quick dinner that tastes like comfort, this recipe brings balance to your table — nourishing, delicious, and completely doable. If you’re looking for other protein-rich recipes that fit your lifestyle, don’t miss our guide to 25 High-Protein Snacks for Muscle Gain. It’s packed with easy ideas to fuel you between meals.
Explore the Steps
Ingredients & Prep for the Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl combines everyday ingredients into something fresh, spicy, and deeply satisfying. The best part? You can meal-prep it ahead of time — it reheats beautifully without losing its flavor or texture.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt (can swap with light mayo for creamier texture)
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp lime juice
For the Base:
- 1½ cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
- Swap rice for cauliflower rice to lower carbs
- Add edamame or diced cucumber for extra crunch
- Try quinoa for added fiber and complete protein
Tools You’ll Need
A few dependable tools make this recipe foolproof — especially if you meal-prep regularly.
- Lightyear Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush Set (2-Pack) – Ideal for brushing sauce over hot chicken or veggies. Heat-resistant and easy to clean.
- TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs (Set of 3) – Safe for nonstick pans, lightweight, and perfect for flipping chicken evenly.
- Escali Primo Digital Food Scale – Great for portioning chicken and rice precisely for meal prep.
- NileHome Stainless Steel Whisk Set (3-Pack) – Makes it easy to blend the sauce until smooth and creamy.
- Mercer Culinary Millennia 10-Inch Bread Knife – Despite the name, it’s my go-to for slicing cooked chicken without shredding the meat.
If you’re upgrading your kitchen tools, these are worth it. They make prep smoother and cleanup quicker — leaving you more time to enjoy your food, not stress about it.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a High-Protein Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
This recipe comes together quickly — just a few simple steps for a week’s worth of flavor-packed, protein-rich meals.
1. Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then cut it into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This helps create a golden, flavorful crust when cooking.
2. Heat and Cook
Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding — you want that perfect sear. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature: 165°F / 74°C).
Pro Tip: Use your TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs for easy flipping without damaging the surface of your pan.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken cooks, whisk together Greek yogurt, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and lime juice in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy — the sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Quick Tip: I use my NileHome Stainless Steel Whisk Set for the perfect texture — it blends everything quickly and evenly.
4. Combine and Toss
Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the Bang Bang sauce over it. Stir well to coat every piece evenly. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes so the sauce slightly thickens and clings to the chicken.
Visual cue: You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken glistens with a creamy, orange-pink coating and the sauce lightly bubbles around the edges.
5. Assemble Your Bowl
Spoon cooked rice into bowls, then top with shredded cabbage, carrots, and your saucy chicken. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds for crunch and color.
If you’re meal-prepping, divide everything evenly into airtight containers using your Escali Primo Digital Food Scale for consistent portions. Let them cool before sealing to keep the texture fresh.
6. Store and Reheat
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave for 1½ to 2 minutes or warm in a skillet with a splash of water. The sauce will stay creamy, and the flavors deepen after a day.
Make-Ahead Tip: Keep the sauce separate until serving if you prefer a fresher texture — drizzle it over warm chicken just before eating.
Nutrition & Benefits of the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is more than a crave-worthy meal — it’s designed for results. With over 40 grams of protein per serving and nutrient-rich ingredients, it supports muscle recovery, satiety, and sustainable energy throughout your day.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 425 kcal |
| Protein | 41 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.)
Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Bowl
1. Muscle Recovery & Energy Boost
The combination of lean chicken breast and Greek yogurt delivers a full amino acid profile — perfect for muscle repair and steady post-workout energy. According to Harvard Health, high-protein snacks and meals can help support muscle growth and keep you fuller longer, reducing unnecessary snacking later in the day.
2. Balanced Nutrition in Every Bite
This bowl provides a steady ratio of protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats. The rice replenishes glycogen after a workout, while the chili-yogurt sauce adds probiotics and a subtle metabolism kick.
3. Smart Ingredient Swaps
By replacing mayo with Greek yogurt and using olive oil in place of butter, this version cuts unnecessary fats while keeping the creamy texture you crave. You’ll get all the indulgence of takeout Bang Bang chicken — without the heavy feeling afterward.
4. Meal Prep Made Simple
One batch can fuel several meals, making it ideal for meal planning. Portioning the ingredients with the Escali Primo Digital Food Scale ensures consistent macros for anyone tracking nutrition goals.
5. Gluten-Free & Easily Adjustable
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and swap rice for cauliflower rice to make it gluten-free and lower-carb. It’s naturally adaptable to various diets while staying true to the brand’s mission: nutritious, simple, and delicious eating that fits your lifestyle.
Health Disclaimer:
This recipe is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized nutrition guidance.
Serving Suggestions & FAQs for the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Creative Serving Ideas
The beauty of this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is how flexible it is. You can enjoy it warm for dinner, cold for lunch, or even deconstructed for grab-and-go meal prep.
1. Lunch Meal Prep Bowls:
Divide rice, chicken, and veggies into containers for an easy weekday lunch. Drizzle sauce just before eating to keep it creamy and fresh.
2. Fresh Salad Remix:
Skip the rice and serve the saucy chicken over chopped romaine, cabbage, or coleslaw mix for a light, protein-packed salad. It’s especially refreshing on busy summer days.
3. Low-Carb Option:
For a lighter take, serve it over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini. The sauce clings beautifully to veggies and still satisfies your craving for something creamy and spicy.
4. Family Dinner Upgrade:
Pair it with air-fried sides like 5-Ingredient Air Fryer Potato Skins or a cozy 5-Step Creamy Chicken Enchiladas for a full, comforting meal.
And if you love sharing your meal prep wins, I post new high-protein recipes every week on Pinterest – Healthy Snacks by Sophie and Fit Fuel Recipes by Daniel. Follow us there for creative ways to turn healthy eating into something exciting and achievable.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store bowls in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Chicken and sauce can be frozen for up to 2 months (store separately).
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave for 1–2 minutes with a splash of water to keep it moist.
FAQs About the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl
Q1: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the Greek yogurt for plain coconut yogurt or a dairy-free alternative. The sauce will stay creamy and flavorful.
Q2: What’s the best way to meal-prep this bowl?
Cook everything in advance, then store rice, veggies, and chicken separately. Assemble fresh each day or mix in containers right before eating.
Q3: Is this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl spicy?
It has a gentle heat from sriracha and chili sauce, but you can adjust it easily — start with half the sriracha if you prefer mild.
Q4: Can I use another protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Try shrimp, tofu, or even turkey breast. Each option keeps the high-protein balance while offering variety throughout the week.
Recommended Products
- Lightyear Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush Set (2-Pack) – Perfect for coating chicken evenly with sauce.
- TOWINGO 9-Inch Silicone Kitchen Tongs (Set of 3) – Great for flipping, tossing, and portioning during meal prep.
- Escali Primo Digital Food Scale – My go-to for accurate, stress-free portioning.
Each of these tools makes cooking simpler, faster, and cleaner — exactly what we’re all about at TopChoiceRecipes.
Make It Yours.
— Sophie Bennett
