Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful Banza Chicken Bowl featuring crunchy cucumber and cherry tomato salad, creamy Calabrian chili sauce, and protein-rich air fryer chicken served atop a savory Banza rice mix. This quick and easy 35-minute meal combines fresh vegetables, a spicy tangy sauce, and wholesome ingredients, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Tomato Cucumber Salad
- 1 English cucumber, cut into chunks (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (about 1 1/2 cups)
- A small chunk of red onion, thinly sliced (preferably on a mandoline)
- 1 small bundle of parsley, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Calabrian Chili Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2-3 individual Calabrian chiles, stems discarded, smashed or minced (jarred variety recommended)
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- A splash of Castelvetrano olive brine (optional)
- Salt, to taste
Protein and Carb
- Batch of Air Fryer Chicken (prepared separately; recipe referenced)
- Banza Rice Mix, Tomato Chipotle variety (or preferred carb alternative)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomato Cucumber Salad: Combine the chopped cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped parsley in a mixing bowl. Add the white vinegar, olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to combine and adjust seasoning as needed. To prep ahead, keep vegetables separate and refrigerated, combining just before serving.
- Make the Calabrian Chili Sauce: In a separate bowl, stir together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, smashed Calabrian chiles, grated garlic, and a splash of Castelvetrano olive brine if using. Season with salt to taste. Mix thoroughly until smooth. The sauce can be refrigerated and kept fresh for several days.
- Cook the Protein and Carb: Prepare the air fryer chicken according to the referenced air fryer chicken recipe. Similarly, prepare the Banza Rice Mix following package instructions, or substitute your preferred grain or carb.
- Assemble the Banza Chicken Bowl: In serving bowls, layer a portion of the Banza Rice Mix, top with air fryer chicken pieces, and spoon on the tomato cucumber salad. Drizzle generous amounts of the Calabrian chili sauce over the contents.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the bowl immediately while the chicken is warm, enjoying the contrast of fresh salad, spicy creamy sauce, and wholesome grains and protein.
Notes
- The Calabrian chili sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for several days, enhancing flavor as it melds.
- For vegetable prep convenience, chop cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions separately and store in airtight containers until ready to combine.
- Castelvetrano olive brine adds a bright, salty tang but is optional depending on availability and taste.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute air fryer chicken with air fryer tofu following a similar preparation method for protein.
- Use your preferred carb if Banza Rice Mix isn’t available; quinoa, brown rice, or other grain alternatives work well.
