If you’re craving a dish that’s comforting, full of flavor, and brings a bit of spicy-sweet excitement to your dinner table, this Bang Bang Chicken Casserole Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine tender shredded chicken, tender-crisp broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta all mingling in a creamy, luscious bang bang sauce that delivers a delightful kick in every bite. It’s a casserole that’s as vibrant as it is simple to prepare, making it a family-friendly favorite you’ll want to add to your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this Bang Bang Chicken Casserole Recipe is easy because the ingredients are straightforward yet vital to create that perfect balance of creaminess, spice, and texture. Each component has its role, from the tender chicken and nutritious broccoli to the crunchy panko topping that adds a lovely golden finish.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: This provides the hearty protein base that makes the casserole satisfying.
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini), cooked and drained: These shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully while adding a comforting texture.
- 1 cup broccoli florets (lightly steamed or blanched): Adds freshness and a splash of green to brighten the dish.
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey, cheesy perfection, offering creamy richness.
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional topping): Provides a crunchy, golden contrast that makes every bite exciting.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish): Adds a fresh, mild oniony pop for finishing the casserole.
- For the bang bang sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that melds all flavors together.
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce: Gives the sauce its signature sweet and spicy zing.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more to taste): Packs in heat and depth.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances heat with a natural touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice (optional): Adds a hint of acidity to brighten the flavor profile.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick and has a lovely, easy-to-serve texture once baked.
Step 2: Whisk the Bang Bang Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar (if using) until smooth and creamy. This sauce will coat each bite with that perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy that makes this Bang Bang Chicken Casserole Recipe so addictive.
Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, broccoli florets, diced red bell pepper, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Pour the bang bang sauce over the mixture and toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are fully coated in that irresistible sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the creamy, saucy mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top and finish with the panko breadcrumbs if you want that extra crunch once baked. This layering step ensures a rich and bubbly casserole with a golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 20 to 25 minutes until it’s bubbling hot and the top has turned a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma alone will have you eager to dig in.
Step 6: Garnish and Rest
After removing the casserole from the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes to set. Then sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, mild bite that compliments the rich casserole beautifully.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped green onions are classic, but feel free to add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh cilantro for an Asian-inspired twist. A drizzle of extra sweet chili sauce or a few extra dashes of sriracha can bring more vibrant flavor to the plate, perfect for those who like a little extra heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, which helps balance the creamy richness of the dish. For a more wholesome meal, steamed jasmine rice or a simple cucumber salad can complement the flavors without overpowering the star of the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, portion-controlled presentation at dinner parties. Alternatively, scoop the casserole over fluffy cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. The colorful layers make it as visually enticing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, so the next day lunch is just as satisfying!
Freezing
This Bang Bang Chicken Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Place the unbaked casserole (covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap) in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. Adding a few extra minutes helps crisp up the topping again, making leftovers taste fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well too! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it to avoid a soggy casserole.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce?
You can try Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative, but keep in mind it will change the texture and tanginess slightly. Adjust the sweetness and spice accordingly.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap out the chicken for cooked tofu, tempeh, or extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.
How spicy is the casserole with sriracha?
The heat level is moderate and can be tailored to your preference by adjusting the amount of sriracha. If you want a milder dish, use less, or go bold with more for a fiery kick.
What other cheeses work well in this casserole?
Cheeses like pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or cheddar can be used for a different flavor profile, adding either extra creaminess or sharpness to suit your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
This Bang Bang Chicken Casserole Recipe is a total gem—combining spicy-sweet sauce, tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and cheesy goodness into one comforting dish you’ll come back to again and again. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, I can’t recommend giving this flavorful casserole a try enough. Your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bang Bang Chicken Casserole is a creamy, spicy, and cheesy baked dish combining tender cooked chicken, pasta, and fresh vegetables with a zesty bang bang sauce. Perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers bold flavors and a satisfying crunch from the panko topping.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini), cooked and drained
- 1 cup broccoli florets, lightly steamed or blanched
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Make the bang bang sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar or lime juice until smooth and well combined.
- Combine casserole ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, steamed broccoli florets, diced red bell pepper, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Pour in the bang bang sauce and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer this mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top and then add a layer of panko breadcrumbs if using, to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to sit for 5 minutes to set. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top as a fresh garnish.
Notes
- For a healthier version, substitute mayonnaise with a low-fat or yogurt-based alternative.
- You can use any short pasta such as penne, rotini, or rigatoni for this casserole.
- The panko breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture to the finished dish.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of sriracha to suit your taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
