These High Protein Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowls are a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s packed with protein. The crispy chicken is coated in a creamy, spicy, and tangy bang bang sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice with fresh veggies. It’s a perfect meal for lunch or dinner and can be customized to suit your tastes!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 large egg, beaten
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a richer flavor)
2 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to your preferred spice level)
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
For the Rice Bowls:
2 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option)
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded (optional)
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces (about 1-2 inches each). In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk the egg.
Dip each chicken piece into the beaten egg, coating it lightly, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. Place the breaded chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). You can also pan-fry the chicken in a little olive oil over medium heat until golden and cooked through.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Stir well until smooth and creamy. Adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha or sweetness by adding more honey to your taste.
3. Assemble the Rice Bowls:
Cook your rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, divide the rice into bowls.
Top the rice with shredded carrots, cucumber slices, red cabbage (if using), and the baked chicken pieces.
Drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over the chicken and rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, and lime wedges for a burst of freshness.
4. Serve:
Serve the bowls immediately while the chicken is warm. Enjoy the crispy, spicy, and creamy flavors combined with the fresh veggies and rice for a nutritious and high-protein meal!
Tips:
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like avocado, bell peppers, or edamame for extra nutrients and color.
Make it Vegan: For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use plant-based yogurt and mayo for the sauce.
Meal Prep: These rice bowls are great for meal prep! You can cook the chicken and rice in advance, and assemble the bowls with fresh veggies and sauce on the day you plan to eat them.
These High Protein Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowls are the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, with just the right amount of spice and creaminess from the bang bang sauce. A delicious and satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and full of flavor!