Some evenings, all I crave is a dish that brings a burst of flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. Enter my Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce – a harmonious blend of crispy air-fried chicken, gluten-free Banza pasta, and a refreshing tomato cucumber salad. The moment the Calabrian chili sauce drizzles over the top, it’s like adding a vibrant splash of color to your dinner plate, inviting you to dive in.
This dish is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about experiencing food that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Banza is a game changer, packed with fiber and protein, allowing you to enjoy pasta guilt-free. Whether you’re looking to kickstart a health journey or simply seeking a new favorite weeknight meal, these bowls fit the bill. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s transform dinner into a delightful culinary escape!
Why are Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce irresistible?
Flavorful Harmony: The perfect balance of crispy chicken, zesty sauce, and fresh salad will tantalize your taste buds.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Banza pasta offers a nutritious twist, making this dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Versatile Serving: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins, ensuring everyone gets a meal they love.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s a vibrant, colorful dish that not only looks good but is also a hit with family and friends.
Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Chicken strips – This protein base ensures a satisfying heartiness for your bowl.
- Olive oil – Helps to achieve that perfect golden crisp in the air fryer.
- Seasoning mix – A pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika elevates the flavor.
For the Banza Base
- Banza (chickpea pasta) – A gluten-free option packed with protein and fiber, perfect for a guilt-free meal.
For the Salad
- Cherry tomatoes – Burst with freshness and add a lovely pop of color to your bowl.
- Cucumber – Offers a refreshing crunch, balancing out the meal’s richness.
- Red onion – Adds a slight sharpness to the mix, enhancing the flavor profile.
- Olive oil – Drizzled for a rich, velvety texture in the salad.
- Red wine vinegar – Complements the veggies with a tangy lift.
- Salt – A dash to enhance the flavor of the salad.
For the Sauce
- Calabrian chili paste – Infuses the dish with a distinct warmth and heat that ties everything together.
- Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess and balances the spice of the Calabrian chili sauce.
- Olive brine – Introduces a salty, buttery effect that deepens the sauce’s flavor.
Toppings
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or basil) – A sprinkle brightens up the dish just before serving.
- Lemon wedges – Adds a fresh kick when squeezed on top, enhancing those vibrant flavors.
Now that you have the vital ingredients for your Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce, let the cooking begin!
How to Make Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce
- Prepare the Salad: Mix diced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make the Calabrian Sauce: In a blender, combine Calabrian chili paste, Greek yogurt, and olive brine. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning to taste. This creamy sauce will elevate your bowls with its spicy yet tangy flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Season chicken strips with olive oil and your spice mix. Cook in the air fryer for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remember to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety!
- Assemble Bowls: Start with a base of Banza pasta in each bowl. Top generously with crispy chicken strips, the fresh tomato cucumber salad, and finish with a drizzle of the zesty Calabrian chili sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for an extra zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Banza Chicken Bowls
Fridge: Store remaining Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days to preserve freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. This keeps the texture intact when reheated.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat chicken in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes until crispy. Heat the sauce gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Salad Storage: Keep the salad separately to maintain its crunch. Assemble just before serving for the best taste and texture.
What to Serve with Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce?
Light, fresh, and bursting with flavors, these bowls become even more delightful when paired with the right sides and drinks.
- Garlic Bread:
This warm, buttery accompaniment adds a comforting crunch, perfect for soaking up any leftover Calabrian sauce. - Herbed Quinoa:
A nutty and fluffy side that brings a delightful contrast in texture to the crispy chicken and chewy Banza. - Roasted Vegetables:
Caramelized veggies like zucchini and bell peppers provide sweetness and depth, complementing the vibrant flavors of your bowl. - Greek Yogurt Dip:
A cool, tangy dip balances the heat from the sauce, inviting you to savor every bite with a creamy touch. - Simple Green Salad:
A light blend of mixed greens drizzled with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, enhancing the meal’s overall brightness. - Chilled White Wine:
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the spicy notes, making every bite even more enjoyable. - Fresh Fruit Salad:
A medley of seasonal fruits offers a sweet finish, refreshing your palate after that zesty Calabrian punch. - Lemonade:
This sweet and sour drink quenches thirst while its citrus zing perfectly complements the flavors of your Banza chicken bowls.
Make Ahead Options
These Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salad and Calabrian sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply mix the diced vegetables for the salad and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The sauce can be blended and refrigerated, helping the flavors deepen overnight. However, for best quality, it’s ideal to cook the air fryer chicken strips no more than 24 hours before serving to keep them crispy. When ready to serve, just reheat the chicken in the air fryer for a few minutes, then assemble your bowls for a delightful meal that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!
Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce Variations
Dive into a world of flavor possibilities with these exciting twists on the classic recipe.
- Quinoa Swap: Replace Banza with cooked quinoa for a heartier base that’s just as nutritious.
- Grilled Chicken: Opt for grilled chicken instead of air-fried for a smoky, charred taste that’s equally delicious.
- Veggie Boost: Add roasted bell peppers or shredded carrots to the salad for an extra splash of color and nutrients.
- Creamy Dressing: Mix avocado into your sauce for an extra creamy texture and healthy fats; it adds a lovely richness!
- Lower Heat: Use a milder hot sauce like sriracha instead of Calabrian chili paste for a gentler kick without losing flavor.
- Swap Greens: Try arugula or baby spinach in the salad for a peppery twist that brings freshness and a pop of color.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh dill or cilantro can brighten the dish even more when sprinkled atop just before serving.
- Mediterranean Flair: Toss in olives or feta cheese in the salad for a salty tang that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Expert Tips for Banza Chicken Bowls
- Perfect Chicken Texture: Ensure your air fryer is preheated before adding the chicken; this helps achieve that delightful crispy exterior everyone loves.
- Flavorful Salad: Let the salad sit for a few minutes after mixing to allow the dressing to absorb into the vegetables, enhancing the overall taste of the Banza chicken bowls.
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the quantity of Calabrian chili paste based on your spice tolerance. You can start with a small amount and gradually add more if you enjoy extra heat.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re low on ingredients, feel free to swap Banza for another gluten-free pasta or quinoa; just keep the cooking times in mind.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of lemon wedges to allow guests to add a refreshing citrus kick to their Banza chicken bowls, brightening up the flavors.
Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my salad?
Absolutely! Look for cherry tomatoes that are firm and vibrant in color, with no dark spots. For cucumbers, choose ones that are firm and have a smooth skin. The more color, the better!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store your remaining Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping the chicken and salad separate helps maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the chicken and sauce?
Certainly! To freeze, place the cooked chicken and Calabrian sauce in separate airtight containers and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the chicken and sauce in the fridge overnight and reheat the chicken in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes until crispy. This way, you won’t lose that delightful crunch!
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you’re finding unevenly cooked chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches allows hot air to circulate evenly, ensuring that every piece gets that perfect golden crisp.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free thanks to Banza, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. However, always check the ingredient labels for allergens, especially in sauces and pre-packaged items. If you’re cooking for pets, it’s best to avoid giving them anything with seasoning or sauces, as they may not be safe for them.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Very! For a vegetarian twist, you can substitute the chicken with air-fried tofu or chickpeas. Simply season them similarly and cook until crispy. Enjoy your own version of the Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce!
Banza Chicken Bowls with Calabrian Chili Sauce for Quick Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix diced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, then sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- In a blender, combine Calabrian chili paste, Greek yogurt, and olive brine. Blend until smooth, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Season chicken strips with olive oil and your spice mix. Cook in the air fryer for 10-15 minutes.
- Start with a base of Banza pasta in each bowl, topped with crispy chicken strips, the fresh salad, and drizzle with Calabrian chili sauce.