1-First Step: Prepare the Sauce Start by making the sauce, which is the heart of this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl. In a medium bowl, combine 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise, ⅔ cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, and 2 teaspoons hot sauce, then stir until smooth. For those watching their spice intake, adjust the hot sauce to make it milder or hotter. This step can be done ahead for convenience, and if you’re adapting for dietary needs, swap honey with a vegan alternative like agave.

2-Second Step: Season and Cook the Chicken Take 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes and toss them in a bowl with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. For even cooking, place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you prefer a skillet, cook over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes until golden, then mix with half a cup of the sauce; for lower-calorie options, use less sauce here.

3-Third Step: Prepare the Base and Vegetables While the chicken cooks, warm 4 cups of prepared white rice, either in the microwave or on the stove. Slice 2 cups of red cabbage thinly, julienne 1 large carrot, halve and slice 1 medium cucumber, and thinly slice 1 large avocado. These fresh veggies add crunch and nutrition to your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl, and for variations, you could substitute with bell peppers if you’re avoiding nightshades or adding steamed broccoli for extra greens.

4-Fourth Step: Assemble the Bowls Divide the warmed white rice among four bowls, then layer on the sliced red cabbage, julienned carrot, sliced cucumber, and avocado. Top with the cooked chicken tossed in the sauce for that signature Bang Bang Chicken Bowl taste. Customize by adding more sauce if desired, and adapt for preferences like using brown rice for a nuttier flavor or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

5-Fifth Step: Garnish and Serve Finish your Bang Bang Chicken Bowl by garnishing with chopped fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. Serve immediately to enjoy the crisp vegetables and warm chicken at their best. For troubleshooting, if the chicken isn’t crispy, try extending cook time by a minute or two, and remember to store components separately if making ahead, as per our earlier tips on the Bang Bang Chicken Bowl storage guide.