Description
This Bang Bang Chicken Bake is a deliciously spicy and creamy casserole featuring tender bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a flavorful bang bang sauce, layered over fluffy white rice, and topped with melted cheese and fresh green onions. Perfect for an easy weeknight Asian-inspired dinner that combines sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors in one comforting dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Base and Topping
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray or oil to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar (or lime juice) until the sauce is smooth and well combined, providing the spicy and sweet flavor base for the dish.
- Coat the Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste. Then, toss them in half of the prepared bang bang sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Assemble Layers: Evenly spread the cooked white rice across the bottom of the greased baking dish to create a sturdy base. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer over the rice.
- Add Sauce and Cheese Topping: Drizzle the remaining bang bang sauce evenly over the chicken pieces. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese generously on top to add a creamy, melty finish.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese has melted and turned golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to set and cool slightly. Just before serving, sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant garnish.
Notes
- Serve alongside steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad for a balanced and complete meal.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less sriracha according to your taste preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt without compromising creaminess.
