Name: Bang Bang Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds chicken breast, diced into 1 inch cubes; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil; 1 cup jasmine rice; 1½ cups chicken broth; 12 ounces frozen peas and carrots, thawed; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha (or other hot sauce); 1 tablespoon lime juice; Sliced green onions

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 4 reviews

If you are craving a dinner that checks all the boxes—flavorful, comforting, and super easy to make—this Bang Bang Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine juicy, tender chicken mingling perfectly with fluffy jasmine rice and vibrant peas and carrots, all smothered in a creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce that will make you want to lick your plate. This dish is a one-pan wonder that transforms simple ingredients into a feast full of layered flavors and textures, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In a white rectangular dish, there are several layers of ingredients clearly visible from the top. On the left side, a layer of white uncooked rice takes up about one-third of the dish with some green peas and orange carrot cubes scattered on it. On the right side, a light orange creamy sauce covers pieces of pinkish seafood, possibly shrimp or lobster, partly submerged in a clear liquid that fills the bottom of the dish. Overlapping the creamy sauce and seafood layer, there is a generous pile of bright green peas and small orange carrot cubes at the center, forming a colorful contrast with the other layers. The dish is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started on this Bang Bang Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe is a breeze thanks to a handful of simple, staple ingredients that come together to create a deliciously satisfying meal. Each component plays a key role—the spices bring warmth, the sesame oil adds depth, and the fresh veggies give a pop of color and crunch.

Chicken breast, 1½ pounds diced: The star protein, tender and juicy when baked.
Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon: Adds savory depth without overpowering the dish.
Onion powder, 1 teaspoon: A subtle sweetness that complements the garlic.
Paprika, 1 teaspoon: Brings a mild smoky flavor and vibrant color.
Salt, 1 teaspoon: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
Toasted sesame oil, 2 teaspoons: Adds a nutty aroma and rich finish.
Jasmine rice, 1 cup: Fragrant and fluffy, the perfect base for soaking up sauce.
Chicken broth, 1½ cups: Keeps the rice moist and infuses a savory note.
Frozen peas and carrots, 12 ounces thawed: For color, sweetness, and a fresh veggie touch.
Mayonnaise, ½ cup: Creates the creamy texture of the bang bang sauce.
Sweet chili sauce, ½ cup: Adds sweetness and a gentle heat to the sauce.
Sriracha, 1 tablespoon: Gives a spicy kick to balance the creaminess.
Lime juice, 1 tablespoon: Brings a bright, zesty contrast to the richness.
Sliced green onions (optional garnish): For a fresh, slightly sharp finish and pretty presentation.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Sauce

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready to go once your ingredients are assembled. While that’s warming up, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl to create the luscious bang bang sauce. It’s the magic component that ties the entire dish together with its creamy, spicy-sweet goodness.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Next, place your diced chicken breast into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and salt evenly over the chicken. Drizzle the toasted sesame oil on top, then use a spoon or your hands to toss everything until each piece is beautifully coated. This seasoning bath ensures every bite of chicken sings with flavor after baking.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

Spread the seasoned chicken evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. Then layer the rice and thawed peas and carrots on top, distributing everything so it bakes evenly. Drizzle half of your bang bang sauce across this bed of goodness, and pour the chicken broth over it all to keep everything moist and cook the rice perfectly in the oven.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the rice is tender and the broth has been fully absorbed. The kitchen will start to smell incredible as the spices and sauce meld with the chicken and veggies.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Once out of the oven, drizzle the remaining bang bang sauce generously over the top. If you love a bit of crunch and a pop of color, sprinkle sliced green onions as a garnish. This final touch adds freshness and makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe

On a white plate, there are two main layers: on the left side, a layer of sliced cucumber rounds with light and dark green colors, sprinkled with black seeds; on the right side, a mix of white rice, green peas, small diced orange carrots, and chunks of light brown chicken coated in a creamy, light-colored sauce, topped with small green onion slices. In the background, a white casserole dish holds a similar creamy chicken and vegetable mixture. The setting is on a white marbled surface, and soft natural light brightens the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Though the green onions provide a lovely fresh finish, you can also experiment with a handful of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lime for added brightness. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can add a nutty crunch, perfectly complementing the sesame oil in the dish.

Side Dishes

Since this bake is a complete meal on its own, side dishes can be simple and light. A crisp green salad or steamed broccoli works wonders to balance out the creamy richness of the bang bang sauce. For those wanting a bit more, a side of roasted sweet potatoes would add a touch of natural sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions scooped into bowls topped with extra bang bang sauce for dipping. This method is especially fun for casual dinners or when having friends over. Alternatively, layering the bake with avocado slices and a dollop of sour cream can turn it into a sumptuous Tex-Mex-inspired twist that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover Bang Bang Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe is just as delightful the next day. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld even more, making your next meal a quick and tasty win.

Freezing

This bake freezes beautifully! After it has completely cooled, transfer the leftovers into a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you want a fast meal, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave leftovers in shorter bursts, stirring occasionally to keep the rice from drying out. Adding a splash of broth or water can help maintain moisture during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and extra fiber, but keep in mind it usually requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. If you swap in brown rice, increase the broth and bake a bit longer to ensure it cooks through.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply double-check that your sweet chili sauce and sriracha are gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten-containing ingredients. Otherwise, all other components are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Sure thing! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh cubes, and swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. The bang bang sauce remains the same, making this a tasty vegetarian-friendly option that does not skimp on flavor.

How spicy is the Bang Bang Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe?

The heat level is moderate, thanks to the balance between sweet chili sauce and sriracha. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the sriracha. For those who love spice, feel free to add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I make this recipe in advance and bake later?

Definitely! Assemble the dish up to step 3, cover tightly with foil or a lid, and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re set to cook, just let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes, then proceed with baking as directed.

Final Thoughts

This Bang Bang Chicken and Rice Bake Recipe is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat because it never fails to deliver comfort and excitement all in one dish. It’s approachable for all skill levels, fast enough for weeknights, and impressively tasty. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become a beloved classic on your dinner table.