Save Discover the vibrant, flavor-packed world of the TikTok Chili-Crisp Cucumber Chicken Bowl, where cool, creamy Asian cucumber salad meets juicy seared chicken. This dish offers a perfect balance of textures and a satisfying spicy kick that makes it ideal for a quick and nutritious meal that fits perfectly into a high-protein diet.
Save Preparing this Asian fusion bowl is as much about the refreshing crunch of sliced English cucumbers as it is about the perfectly seasoned chicken. The interplay between the toasted sesame oil, honey, and the punchy rice vinegar creates a depth of flavor that feels elevated yet simple to achieve in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- For the Creamy Cucumber Salad:
- 2 large English cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- For the Chicken:
- 1 1/4 lbs (560 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- For Assembly:
- 4 tablespoons chili crisp (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Extra sesame seeds, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add chicken, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Cucumber Salad
- Toss sliced cucumbers with salt. Let sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess liquid. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey. Add cucumbers, green onions, and sesame seeds. Mix well and chill until ready to assemble.
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil if needed. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Assemble the Bowls
- Divide cucumber salad among serving bowls. Top with sliced chicken. Add jasmine rice or noodles if desired. Spoon chili crisp generously over chicken and cucumbers.
- Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a sharp knife and cutting board to thinly slice the cucumbers ensures they absorb the creamy dressing perfectly. For the best sear, use a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and use tongs to flip the chicken once it reaches a golden brown color.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra crunch, add sliced radishes or shredded carrots to the salad. You can swap Greek yogurt for vegan yogurt to make the dish dairy-free, or use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. The amount of chili crisp can be adjusted easily to suit your specific heat preference.
Serviervorschläge
This vibrant bowl pairs exceptionally well with a dry Riesling or a glass of iced green tea. For a more filling meal, serve it over a base of cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles, and don't forget the lime wedges to add a final bright pop of acidity.
Save This TikTok Chili-Crisp Cucumber Chicken Bowl is a refreshing and modern take on Asian fusion that doesn't compromise on bold, spicy flavors. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a flavor-packed dinner, this bowl is sure to become a fast favorite in your kitchen rotation.
Recipe FAQ
- → What makes chili crisp special in this dish?
Chili crisp adds layers of flavor with its blend of aromatic spices, crispy garlic, and onion bits suspended in oil. The crunchy texture and spicy heat perfectly complement the cool cucumber salad while enhancing the savory seared chicken.
- → Can I make the cucumber salad ahead?
Absolutely! The creamy cucumber salad actually benefits from sitting for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cucumbers to stay crisp in the tangy yogurt dressing.
- → What's the best way to slice the cucumbers?
Thin, uniform slices work best for optimal texture. You can use a mandoline for precision, or simply slice carefully with a sharp knife. English cucumbers are ideal because they have fewer seeds and thinner skin.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Start with less chili crisp if you prefer mild heat, or add extra for those who love it spicy. You can also choose a milder or hotter brand of chili crisp depending on your preference. Serve with extra lime to balance the heat.
- → What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
Sour cream works beautifully as a direct substitute. For a dairy-free version, use coconut yogurt or a plant-based alternative. The creamy element balances the spicy chili crisp and cool cucumbers perfectly.
- → Is this meal prep friendly?
Yes! Store components separately in airtight containers: the cucumber salad, sliced chicken, and rice or noodles. Add fresh chili crisp just before serving to maintain its signature crunch. Everything keeps well for 3-4 days.