If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful, creamy, and spicy pasta that delivers both comfort and kick, this Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is your answer. Packed with tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a signature spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce, this dish is not only a family favorite but also perfect for meal prepping. Whether you’re cooking for two or prepping easy pasta recipes for dinner all week, this recipe offers both convenience and indulgence in one bowl.
This dish is also a star player for those seeking quick cheap meals for two, delicious solo dinner recipes, or even hearty chicken and pasta dishes for dinner that feel restaurant-worthy. And best of all? You can whip it up with pantry staples and customize it to your taste.
Let’s dive into what makes this Bang Bang Chicken Pasta recipe so unforgettable.
Table of Contents
What Is Bang Bang Chicken Pasta?
At its core, Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is a fusion dish that combines juicy, seared chicken breast with pasta, all coated in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce. The “Bang Bang” flavor originates from Asian-American cuisine, typically made with chili sauce, mayonnaise, sriracha, and a touch of sweetness.
In this version, that iconic flavor gets tossed with tender pasta and lean chicken, making it a full, satisfying meal that hits all the right flavor notes—spicy, savory, creamy, and a little tangy.
Looking for other bold-flavored dishes? You might also enjoy these Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken or Sweet Chili Meatballs, which pair perfectly with Bang Bang-inspired flavors.
Why This Bang Bang Chicken Pasta Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Weeks
When weeknights get hectic, you need a recipe that’s both easy and good. This pasta fits perfectly into your lineup of easy good pasta recipes for several reasons:
- Quick to prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Minimal ingredients: Most are already in your fridge or pantry.
- Meal prep friendly: Stores and reheats well all week long.
- Flexible: Works as a solo meal or family dinner.
- Restaurant-quality flavor: Without the takeout price tag.
And if you’re feeding just yourself or a roommate, it fits the bill for a go-to solo dinner recipe that feels like a treat.
For another dish that’s satisfying and meal-prep friendly, check out this Crack Breakfast Casserole—a great savory breakfast for busy mornings.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Pasta
Here’s everything you’ll need to make 4 generous servings of Bang Bang Chicken Pasta:
- 300g (10.5 oz) uncooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 500g (1.1 lbs) chicken breast, sliced into strips or bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or spray oil for a lighter version)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (or light mayo for traditional taste)
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- 2 spring onions, finely chopped
- Optional garnish: red chili flakes, chopped cilantro, toasted sesame seeds
Want something sweet to balance the spice? Try these Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies as a spicy-sweet dessert pairing.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Knife and cutting board
- Mixing bowl for sauce
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander
For an organized kitchen, having your essentials prepped in advance helps speed up cooking—especially on those nights when you just need food on the table, fast.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Pasta: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small amount of the pasta water.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayo), sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Adjust spice level by adding more or less sriracha.
4. Combine Everything
Return the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over and toss to coat evenly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped spring onions and optional garnishes like sesame seeds or chili flakes. Serve hot or pack it into containers for the week.
Want more pasta ideas? These Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce makes a great alternative for fall-themed pasta nights.
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Pasta
- Use short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli to better trap the sauce.
- Swap Greek yogurt with light mayo for a richer taste.
- Add steamed veggies like broccoli or peas for extra fiber.
- Adjust chili sauce or sriracha to suit your spice tolerance.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese.
This recipe is just as flexible as our Vegetarian Pasta Primavera, which offers a lighter, veggie-forward option.
Swaps and Variations: Make It Your Own
Here are a few tweaks to customize your Bang Bang Chicken Pasta recipe:
- Use rotisserie chicken for an even faster version.
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Make it low-carb by replacing pasta with zoodles or spaghetti squash.
- For a spicy upgrade, add chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Make it vegetarian by subbing in tofu or roasted chickpeas.
Looking for another spicy twist? Try our Chorizo Pasta or Chili Cheese Dog Casserole for indulgent, comfort-filled dinners.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips
Serve Bang Bang Chicken Pasta hot in shallow bowls, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Pair it with a refreshing salad like this Cucumber Dill Salad or a veggie side such as Honey Glazed Carrots and Green Beans.
Hosting a dinner for two? This is one of the best quick cheap meals for two, especially when paired with Parmesan Polenta Rounds or Garlicky Kale with White Beans.
Meal Prep Guide: Store and Reheat Bang Bang Chicken Pasta
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When reheating:
- Add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
- Reheat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for 1–2 minutes.
- Or reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring gently.
Looking for more prep-friendly recipes? Check out our Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls or Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches for quick morning options.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Pasta Dinners
To make your meal complete, serve with:
- Garlic bread or toasted sourdough
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables like Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese
- A chilled drink like Strawberry Cream Soda or Lavender Lemonade
Easy Pasta Recipes for Dinner: Why This One Stands Out
Among the hundreds of easy pasta recipes for dinner, this Bang Bang Chicken Pasta hits every mark: flavor, speed, and flexibility. It’s just as satisfying as our Keto Peanut Butter Chocolate Fat Bombs are for dessert lovers seeking indulgence without the guilt.
If you need a versatile dish that works for meal prep, family dinners, or even a casual date night, this recipe delivers every time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Bang Bang Pasta
- Overcooking the pasta can make the texture mushy.
- Using too much sriracha may overpower the sauce.
- Not saving pasta water—you’ll miss out on that silky sauce finish.
- Skipping the garnish reduces both flavor and visual appeal.
- Using cold chicken—always cook it fresh or reheat thoroughly.
FAQs About Bang Bang Chicken Pasta
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free mayo or yogurt alternative for the sauce.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Pasta?
It’s best fresh or refrigerated. The sauce may separate if frozen.
Can I use other proteins?
Definitely. Try shrimp, tofu, or even ground turkey.
Is it spicy?
The sriracha adds moderate heat, but it’s easily adjustable.
Bang Bang Chicken Pasta for Every Occasion
This pasta dish fits a range of occasions—from a romantic dinner for two to a full week of work lunches. Whether you’re enjoying it alongside Cheddar Bay Biscuits or packing it next to a few Pumpkin Protein Muffins for the day ahead, it adapts beautifully.
PrintBang Bang Chicken Pasta That Will Last All Week: Easy, Spicy, Satisfying
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a bold Bang Bang sauce made from chili, sriracha, honey, and Greek yogurt. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or quick weeknight meals that feel restaurant-quality without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 300g (10.5 oz) uncooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
- 500g (1.1 lbs) chicken breast, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt (or light mayo)
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- 2 spring onions, finely chopped
- Optional Garnish: red chili flakes, chopped cilantro, toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve a little pasta water.
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook until golden and fully cooked (6–8 minutes). Remove from pan.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth.
- Combine: Return chicken and pasta to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and toss well to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped spring onions, chili flakes, or sesame seeds. Enjoy hot or store for meal prep.
Notes
- Use short pasta shapes: Penne or fusilli hold sauce best.
- Swap yogurt for mayo: For a richer, traditional flavor.
- Add vegetables: Try steamed broccoli or peas for color and fiber.
- Storage: Keeps up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of milk or water for best texture.
- Protein swap: Substitute shrimp, tofu, or rotisserie chicken for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: Bang Bang Chicken Pasta, Spicy Chicken Pasta, Creamy Pasta Recipe, Meal Prep Pasta, Easy Chicken Dinner, Sweet Chili Pasta, Sriracha Pasta, Quick Weeknight Meals, Asian Fusion Pasta, Comfort Food


