Bang Bang Ground Turkey Rice Bowls: A Flavorful and Easy Weeknight Meal

Bang Bang Ground Turkey Rice Bowls are the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors served over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. This recipe takes the popular Bang Bang sauce concept, traditionally used for seafood or chicken, and adapts it to lean ground turkey, creating a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. The dish is colorful, nutritious, and customizable, featuring crisp vegetables, tender turkey, and a creamy, tangy sauce that brings everything together.

Using ground turkey keeps the meal lean and protein-packed, while the combination of sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and mayonnaise creates a creamy, slightly spicy coating for the meat. Fresh lime juice and soy sauce add depth and brightness, balancing the richness of the sauce. With jasmine rice as the base and vegetables like red bell pepper, carrots, and broccoli, this bowl is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The addition of green onions and sesame seeds gives a subtle crunch and freshness to each bite.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or anyone looking for a healthy, flavorful bowl that can be on the table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
2 cups cooked jasmine rice
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped broccoli
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Preparation Method

Start by preparing the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, and lime juice until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more sriracha for extra heat or more lime juice for brightness. Set aside.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

While the turkey cooks, prepare the vegetables. Chop the red bell pepper, carrots, and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. Add the vegetables to the skillet with the cooked turkey and sauté for 3–5 minutes until they are tender-crisp, maintaining a slight crunch for texture.

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the prepared Bang Bang sauce, making sure the turkey and vegetables are evenly coated.

To assemble the rice bowls, divide the cooked jasmine rice evenly among bowls. Top with the Bang Bang turkey and vegetable mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added freshness and crunch. Serve immediately while warm.

Expert Tips

Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best texture.
Do not overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crunchy to contrast with the tender turkey.
For extra flavor, toast the sesame seeds lightly in a dry skillet before sprinkling them over the bowls.
Adjust the sauce to your preferred spice level by adding more or less sriracha.
This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated, though the vegetables are best when freshly cooked.

Variations

Vegetable Boost: Add snap peas, zucchini, or mushrooms for more variety and nutrients.
Protein Swap: Use ground chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Low-Carb Option: Replace jasmine rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter bowl.
Crunchy Toppings: Add crushed peanuts or fried shallots for additional texture.
Extra Heat: Drizzle with sriracha or a chili-garlic sauce before serving for more spice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bang Bang Ground Turkey Rice Bowls with a side of steamed edamame or a fresh cucumber salad for a balanced meal. Pair with iced green tea or a light white wine for a refreshing accompaniment. Leftover rice and turkey mixture can be used for lunch the next day or turned into a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftover turkey and vegetables in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store the sauce separately for best texture.
Freezer: Cooked turkey and vegetables can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Do not freeze the mayonnaise-based sauce as it may separate; prepare fresh when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine rice? Yes, brown rice works well but may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Can I make this recipe spicier? Yes, increase the amount of sriracha or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, cook and store turkey and vegetables in the refrigerator. Add the sauce and garnish just before serving.
Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, but reduce cooking time to avoid overcooking and becoming mushy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely. Store turkey, vegetables, and rice in separate containers and assemble bowls as needed.

Print

Conclusion

Bang Bang Ground Turkey Rice Bowls are a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that combines tender, spiced turkey with crisp vegetables and a creamy, tangy sauce over a bed of jasmine rice. This dish is colorful, nutritious, and perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings. With its bold flavors, simple preparation, and customizable ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for anyone seeking a delicious and balanced bowl that is both comforting and exciting.