Enjoy sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors in this irresistible chicken dish. With 46 grams of protein per serving, it’s the perfect high protein and gluten free meal when you need something quick and tasty.

I know how hard it can be to have a delicious high-protein meal. When thinking about boosting your protein intake, it’s common to simply think about “adding just more chicken.”

And, while it can be a good option, it can get boring after a while.

But creating a high-protein meal doesn’t have to be complicated; it can be as easy as getting a package of chicken tenders, a cucumber, and chili sauce.

These Bang Bang chicken bowls are so delicious, you’ll enjoy each bite you take. And, the best part is that they offer 46 grams of protein per serving.

If you’ve been to a certain popular seafood restaurant, you probably know Bang Bang sauce. It’s creamy, spicy, sweet, and savory, all in one bite.

This recipe takes that iconic flavor and pairs it with tender baked chicken, basmati rice, and crisp vegetables. The result is a bowl that gives everything you need to have a healthy and balanced lunch or dinner.

Ingredients and Substitutes

CHICKEN

Chicken tenders (2 lbs) – Swap with firm tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp if you want a seafood twist.

Olive oil (1 tbsp) – You can also use avocado oil, coconut oil, or melted butter (or ghee).

Paprika (2 tsp) – Use smoked paprika or chili powder if you want a spicier kick.

Garlic powder (1 tbsp) – Substitute with minced garlic or garlic paste.

Sea salt (1 tsp)

Black pepper (½ tsp)

BANG BANG SAUCE

Mayonnaise (1/2 cup) – To make it a lower-calorie version, replace with Greek yogurt. You can also use vegan mayonnaise if you want a dairy-free option.

Sweet chili sauce (1/3 cup) – Replace with a mix of honey and Sriracha if you don’t have sweet chili.

Sriracha (1 tsp) – You can use any hot sauce you like.

Honey (1 tbsp) – Swap with agave syrup or maple syrup.

RICE & Veggies

Cooked basmati rice (4 cups) – Jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice are great alternatives.

Sweet corn, drained (1 can) – You can use fresh corn or frozen corn kernels (just make sure you cook them).

English cucumber, sliced (½ ) – Replace with zucchini or remove it altogether.

Carrot, grated (1 medium) – Substitute with shredded cabbage or thinly sliced bell peppers.

Scallion, thinly sliced (1) – Swap with chives, shallots, or red onion.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bowls

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 400F and prepare a baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. Grab a large bowl and add the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2. Give the spices a good stir.

Step 3. Add the chicken and the olive oil.

Step 4. Give everything a good toss to make sure the chicken is coated with all the spices.

Step 5. Transfer the chicken tenders to the baking sheet. Make sure you arrange them in a single layer.

Step 6. Grab another bowl, and add the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.

Step 7. Mix all the ingredients.

Step 8. Place a spoonful of the sauce on top of each chicken tender.

Step 9. Place the chicken tenders in the oven and bake them for 15-20 minutes. Remove them from the oven and let them cool down for a couple of minutes before you place them on a chopping board and slide them up.

Step 10. Divide the cooked rice among the 4 bowls. Place the cooked chicken, corn, cucumber, and carrots on top. Drizzle some of the remaining Bang Bang sauce and sprinkle with scallions.

Making Sure It’s Gluten-Free

While this recipe is naturally gluten-free, there are some ingredients that you might need to check. Double-check the labels on your sweet chili sauce and Sriracha to make sure they are certified gluten-free, and you’ve got yourself a delicious gluten-free meal.

My Tips & Tricks

1. Keep Some Extra Sauce: You might want to drizzle more when you are reheating the bowls (if you are using them as meal prep). I always leave just a little more (or make double to have available for me to use).
2. Let the Chicken Rest: Give the baked chicken a couple of minutes before you slice them. This is going to help the juices to redistribute and make sure each bite is tender.
3. Add a Splash of Acid: Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the finished bowls to add some brightness.