Name: Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American with Asian-inspired flavors
Ingredients: 1/3 cup tapioca starch (or potato starch); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed (about 3 cups or 1 1/2 pounds); 2 Tablespoons avocado oil; 1-2 Tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice; 2 teaspoons orange zest; 1/3 cup honey; 1 Tablespoon tomato paste; 1 Tablespoon tamari (or soy sauce, coconut aminos); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 Tablespoons avocado oil; 2 cups chopped broccoli; 1 cup sliced bell peppers (about 2 medium peppers); 1 cup sliced onion; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1 medium green onion stalk, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that’s both satisfying and a total crowd-pleaser, these Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls have got you covered. Picture tender, cubed chicken coated in a light tapioca crust, pan-fried until irresistibly crispy, then tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet buffalo-inspired sauce bursting with hints of orange and ginger. Layered on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice and accompanied by sautéed broccoli, bell peppers, and onions, this dish offers a perfect harmony of textures and flavors in every bite. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep star, Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls deliver that cozy yet exciting taste you’ll want to make again and again.

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the impressive taste fool you—this recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s adding crispness, zesty flavor, or vibrant color to your bowl.

Tapioca starch (1/3 cup): Creates the perfect crispy coating that locks in juicy tenderness without heaviness.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a mellow, savory undertone to both the chicken and veggies.
Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a warm, slightly spicy note that enhances the sauce’s complexity.
Salt (various amounts): Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle heat and depth to the overall dish.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts (2 medium): The star protein—cubed for quick cooking and perfect sauce absorption.
Avocado oil (4 Tablespoons total): Ideal for pan-frying thanks to its high smoke point and light flavor.
Fresh orange juice (1-2 Tablespoons): Brings a bright, refreshing citrus punch to the sauce.
Orange zest (2 teaspoons): Intensifies that citrus aroma and flavor without extra acidity.
Honey (1/3 cup): Balances spice with natural sweetness, giving the sauce a luscious glaze.
Tomato paste (1 Tablespoon): Adds richness and a subtle tang to the buffalo-inspired sauce.
Tamari (1 Tablespoon): Offers a savory umami boost as a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Infuses a toasty, nutty aroma that complements the sauce perfectly.
Minced garlic (1 teaspoon): Intensifies the fresh garlicky flavor in the sauce.
Chopped broccoli (2 cups): Provides crunch, nutrients, and vibrant green color.
Sliced bell peppers (1 cup): Adds sweetness and a pop of bright color for visual appeal.
Sliced onion (1 cup): Brings sweet and savory layers when sautéed.
Cooked jasmine rice (2 cups): The soft, fragrant foundation that ties everything together.
Green onion stalk (1 medium): Fresh, crisp garnish that adds a mild onion kick and color contrast.

How to Make Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating

Start by combining tapioca starch, garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. These simple spices create a flavorful base that adheres beautifully to the chicken cubes, promising an irresistible crispy texture once cooked. Toss your cubed chicken breasts in this mixture until each piece is thoroughly coated. This coating is what transforms the chicken into that signature crispy delight in your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces, allowing them to pan-fry undisturbed for 5 to 8 minutes. This undisturbed cooking forms the crisp golden crust everyone loves. Then flip and cook for another 5 to 8 minutes until chicken is fully cooked through and browned on all sides. Once cooked, gently stir to break up some pieces, creating that perfect bite-sized texture that melds wonderfully with the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While the chicken sizzles, whisk together fresh orange juice, orange zest, honey, tomato paste, tamari, sesame oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. This sauce combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors with subtle warmth, capturing the essence of those classic buffalo flavors but with a fresh, citrusy twist. Set aside about one-quarter cup of the sauce for drizzling later.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken in Sauce

Once the chicken has cooked and any excess oil has drained on a paper towel, add the chicken pieces to the large bowl of sauce. Toss gently but thoroughly until every crunchy piece is glistening and fully coated. This step locks in that moist, flavorful bite while keeping the crispy texture intact—key to the magic of Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls.

Step 5: Cook the Vegetables

Add a bit more avocado oil to the skillet and bring it back to medium-high heat. Toss in the broccoli, bell peppers, and onions, seasoning them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté these vibrant veggies for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to soften them just enough while still maintaining a satisfying crunch, which balances beautifully with the tender chicken and fluffy jasmine rice that await in your bowl.

Step 6: Assemble Your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls

Divide the cooked jasmine rice evenly between four bowls or meal prep containers. Top each bed of rice with the sautéed vegetables and the sauced crispy chicken. Finish off by sprinkling chopped green onions over the top and drizzling each bowl with that reserved bit of extra sauce for an added burst of flavor. Now, dig in and enjoy the gorgeous medley that makes Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls such a standout meal.

How to Serve Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls

Garnishes

Garnishes can elevate your presentation and flavor profile immensely. A handful of chopped green onions brings a fresh, mild pungency and vibrant green contrast that makes the bowls visually inviting. For an extra kick, consider sprinkling some toasted sesame seeds or a few thin slices of fresh chili. These little touches complement the saucy, crispy chicken and veggies perfectly.

Side Dishes

Though these bowls are hearty on their own, they pair beautifully with light, refreshing sides. A crisp cucumber salad or a zesty coleslaw can brighten the plate and add crunch. If you’re aiming for comfort food vibes, crispy sweet potato fries or garlic bread on the side are fantastic companions that round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or just switch things up, try serving your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls in hollowed-out bell pepper halves or small mini pumpkin bowls for a seasonal touch. For a casual gathering, lay everything out in a make-your-own bowl bar format so everyone can customize their perfect combination. Adding edible flowers or microgreens on top can also lend an elegant flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls store beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the chicken and sauce separate from the veggies and rice if possible to preserve the crispness and textures. When you’re ready for a quick meal, reassemble and enjoy.

Freezing

Chicken coated with the crispy tapioca starch and tossed in sauce freezes well, but vegetables might get softer upon thawing. To maintain quality, freeze components separately: chicken and sauce in one container, veggies and rice in others. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and consume within 2 months for best flavor.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat the chicken on the stovetop or in an air fryer to help bring back that crisp texture. The veggies and rice reheat nicely in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to keep them moist. Add fresh chopped green onions and a drizzle of reserved sauce after reheating to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs provide a bit more fat and flavor, and they stay tender. Just cut them into similar-sized cubes to ensure even cooking. You might want to adjust cooking time slightly since thighs can take a bit longer.

Is there a vegetarian alternative for Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls?

Yes! Tofu or cauliflower florets work wonderfully as swaps. Coat and cook them the same way as the chicken; they soak up the saucy flavors and develop a lovely crispy texture to keep the dish just as satisfying.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before tossing with the chicken to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the flavors shine through.

What if I don’t have tapioca starch?

No worries! Potato starch is a great substitute with a similar crisping effect. Cornstarch can also work, but tapioca or potato starch tends to deliver a lighter, crispier coating perfect for this recipe.

How spicy is the sauce?

The sauce has a gentle kick balanced by the sweetness of honey and citrus juice, making it approachable for most palates. If you love heat, you can easily add some chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to spice things up.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bowls are one of those magical dishes that combine ease, flavor, and texture in such a winning way you’ll want to have them on your dinner rotation every week. The crispy, saucy chicken paired with fresh veggies and fragrant rice makes every meal feel like a celebration. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—you’re in for delicious leftovers and maybe even some impressed family and friends asking for seconds!