There’s something special about the first time you try the Bon Bon Chicken recipe, especially when it surprises you with how simple and satisfying it is. This quick and easy Chinese dish brings together juicy shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, and a sweet, nutty Asian sauce that makes every bite pop with flavor. Whether served at a friend’s home or in a cozy kitchen, it’s a meal that leaves a bold impression.
Once you learn how to make Bon Bon Chicken, there’s no going back. All you need is poached chicken, a handful of pantry staples, and a few minutes to whisk up the signature sauce. It’s the kind of dish that transforms your view of cold salads- it’s not bland, but rather packed with texture, color, and just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting.
The real beauty of the Bon Bon Chicken recipe is its versatility. Serve it as a starter, pack it for lunch, or bring it to your next potluck– people will ask for the recipe every time. The process is as easy as it gets: just shred, toss, and serve. Plus, you can always get creative with it by adding more vegetables, switching up proteins, or doubling the sauce for extra punch.
If you’re craving something cool, crunchy, and full of bold Chinese flavors, Bon Bon Chicken delivers every time. It’s a go-to dish for those who want something quick, refreshing, and deeply satisfying- no long cooking sessions required. Once you taste it, you’ll see why it’s a staple in so many kitchens.
What Is Bon Bon Chicken Recipe?
Origins and Cultural Significance
Bon Bon Chicken originated as a popular street food in Sichuan, China. The name “Bon Bon” or “Bang Bang” is derived from the sound made when tenderizing the chicken with a wooden stick, a traditional method used to achieve its signature texture. This dish exemplifies the bold and spicy flavors characteristic of Sichuan cuisine, known for its liberal use of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns.
Flavor Profile
Bon Bon Chicken is renowned for its:
- Tender, shredded chicken: Achieved through poaching and gentle shredding.
- Spicy and nutty sauce: A combination of chili oil, sesame paste, soy sauce, and vinegar.
- Crunchy vegetables: Often served with julienned cucumbers or bean sprouts for added texture.
This dish is typically served cold, making it a refreshing appetizer or a light main course, especially during warmer months.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare Bon Bon Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 500 grams
- Ginger slices: 3-4 pieces
- Green onions: 2 stalks
- Sichuan peppercorns: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Shaoxing wine: 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Water: Enough to cover the chicken
For the Sauce:
- Sesame paste or tahini: 3 tablespoons
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Chili oil: 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste)
- Black vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Salt: To taste
- Water: 2 tablespoons (to adjust sauce consistency)
For Garnish:
- Cucumber: Julienned
- Chopped peanuts: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh cilantro: A handful
- Sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon
Note: Ingredients can be adjusted based on availability and personal preference.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Bon Bon Chicken Recipe
1. Poach the Chicken
- Prepare the poaching liquid: In a saucepan, combine water, ginger slices, green onions, Sichuan peppercorns, and Shaoxing wine.
- Add the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the saucepan, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Cook: Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Cool and shred: Remove the chicken from the liquid and let it cool. Once cooled, shred the chicken into thin strips using your hands or forks.
2. Prepare the Sauce
- Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix sesame paste, soy sauce, chili oil, black vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and salt.
- Adjust consistency: Add water gradually to achieve a pourable consistency.
- Taste and adjust: Modify the seasoning based on your preference for spiciness, sweetness, or saltiness.
3. Assemble the Dish
- Layer the base: Place julienned cucumbers on a serving plate.
- Add the chicken: Arrange the shredded chicken over the cucumbers.
- Drizzle the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the chicken.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and sesame seeds on top.
4. Serve
- Chill: For best results, refrigerate the dish for 30 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy: Serve as an appetizer or a light main course.
Tips for Best Flavor and Texture
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality sesame paste enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Control the heat: Adjust the amount of chili oil to suit your spice tolerance.
- Balance the sauce: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Texture matters: Ensure the chicken is tender and the vegetables are crisp for a satisfying contrast.
- Presentation: Arrange the components neatly for an appealing visual presentation.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serving Suggestions
- As a standalone dish, serve Bon Bon Chicken as a refreshing appetizer.
- With noodles: Pair with cold noodles for a more substantial meal.
- In wraps: Use as a filling for lettuce wraps
Variations
- Protein alternatives: Substitute chicken with tofu or shredded pork.
- Vegetable additions: Incorporate bean sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers for added crunch.
- Sauce modifications: Experiment with peanut butter instead of sesame paste for a different flavor profile.
Printable Bon Bon Chicken Recipe Card
Bon Bon Chicken (Bang Bang Chicken)
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3-4 slices of ginger
- 2 green onions
- 1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns (optional)
- 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine (optional)
- Water (enough to cover chicken)
Sauce:
- 3 tbsp sesame paste or tahini
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili oil (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp black vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
Garnish:
Instructions:
- Poach the chicken: In a saucepan, combine water, ginger, green onions, Sichuan peppercorns, and Shaoxing wine. Add chicken and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes. Remove and let cool. Shred the chicken.
- Prepare the sauce: Mix sesame paste, soy sauce, chili oil, black vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and salt. Add water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Assemble: Place julienned cucumber on a plate, top with shredded chicken, drizzle with sauce, and garnish with peanuts, cilantro, and sesame dumplings.
Chill and Serve: 🧊 Refrigerate the assembled Bon Bon Chicken for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature as a refreshing appetizer or a light main dish.
More Easy Chinese Chicken Recipes to Try
If you loved Bon Bon Chicken, here are some other simple and flavorful Chinese chicken recipes you’ll enjoy:
Szechuan Chicken
A bold, spicy stir-fry made with chicken, dried red chilies, garlic, and peanuts – perfect for those who crave heat.
Garlic Chicken Stir-Fry
Tender chicken pieces stir-fried in a savory garlic sauce with crisp vegetables for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
Honey Soy Chicken
Juicy chicken marinated in honey, soy sauce, and ginger for a sticky-sweet glaze that pairs beautifully with steamed rice.
Chinese Chicken Salad
A refreshing salad tossed with shredded chicken, crisp veggies, and sesame dressing – great for meal prep or light lunches.
Kung Pao Chicken
A restaurant favorite with the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy, combined with crunchy peanuts and bell peppers.
Bon Bon Chicken Recipe vs Other Cold Chicken Dishes
When it comes to cold chicken dishes around the world, Bon Bon Chicken offers a unique profile that sets it apart. While many cultures serve chilled or room-temperature chicken salads or appetizers, few bring together the same depth of flavor, texture, and balance of spice and sweetness.
Here’s a comparison to help understand how Bon Bon Chicken stacks up against other well-known cold chicken dishes:
Comparison Table: Bon Bon Chicken Recipe vs Global Cold Chicken Dishes
| Dish | Region | Flavor Profile | Texture | Key Ingredients |
| Bon Bon Chicken | China (Sichuan) | Spicy, sweet, nutty, umami | Shredded, tender, crunchy | Poached chicken, sesame paste, chili oil, cucumber |
| Chicken Caesar Salad | Italy/US | Creamy, salty, tangy | Chunky, crisp lettuce | Grilled chicken, Caesar dressing, croutons, romaine |
| Coronation Chicken | UK | Sweet, creamy, mildly spiced | Chopped, soft | Chicken, mayo, curry powder, raisins, apricot |
| Vietnamese Chicken Salad | Vietnam | Tangy, fresh, slightly sweet | Shredded, crunchy | Chicken, fish sauce, lime, herbs, pickled vegetables |
| Thai Larb Gai | Thailand | Spicy, sour, herby | Minced, chewy | Minced chicken, lime juice, chili, mint, roasted rice powder |
Why Bon Bon Chicken Wins:
- Boldest flavor profile of the bunch.
- Uses simple pantry staples but delivers a gourmet experience.
- Naturally gluten-free and low-carb adaptable.
- Works as both an appetizer and a light meal.
👉 If you’re after a dish that balances ease of prep with complex flavors, Bon Bon Chicken is a clear winner.
Real-World Example: Bon Bon Chicken Recipe for Business Lunches and Meal Prep
Case Study: Corporate Catering in Dubai 🇦🇪
One UAE-based catering company, Modern Bites Catering, recently added Bon Bon Chicken to their corporate lunch boxes. Why?
“We needed a cold, flavorful dish that travels well and suits health-conscious clients. Bon Bon Chicken ticks every box,” – Executive Chef, Modern Bites.
Results from Client Feedback:
| Criteria | Average Rating (out of 5) |
| Flavor | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| Presentation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5) |
| Portability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0) |
| Dietary Flexibility | ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.7) |
This recipe helped the company:
- Increase retention with their health-focused clients.
- Provide a dish that was dairy-free, high protein, and low-carb.
- Reduce prep and packaging costs due to no need for reheating.
Why Bon Bon Chicken Recipe Is Perfect for Hot Climates Like the UAE
Living in the UAE or any region with a hot, arid climate means finding meals that are cool, light, and satisfying, without spending hours over a stove. That’s where Bon Bon Chicken becomes a game-changer. This chilled dish is not just delicious; it’s climate-smart, making it ideal for your UAE summer kitchen.
Here’s why it works so well in high-temperature regions:
No Heating Required
Bon Bon Chicken is a cold-served dish– perfect for days when turning on the stove feels unbearable. Once prepped, it’s just shred, toss, chill, and serve.
Hydrating and Refreshing
Packed with fresh veggies like cucumber and sometimes carrots or bean sprouts, it’s hydrating and crisp, just what your body needs during scorching summer days.
Great for Make-Ahead Meals
The sauce tastes better as it sits, making it perfect for meal prepping a day or two in advance. You save time and reduce heat in the kitchen.
Real-Life Uses in the UAE
If you’re in the UAE or any other hot-weather zone, here are some practical, everyday ways to enjoy Bon Bon Chicken:
| Use Case | Why It Works |
| 🌞 Summer Meal Prep | Lasts up to 3 days in the fridge. Keeps its flavor, and no reheating required. |
| 💼 Work-from-Home Lunch | Quick, easy, and satisfying without leaving your desk or heating appliances. |
| 🧺 Outdoor Picnics | Portable, doesn’t spoil fast, and can be enjoyed at room temperature. |
| 🧒 Kids’ Lunchboxes | Use a mild sauce version– no chili oil- so it’s flavorful but not spicy. |
| 🕌 Suhoor or Iftar Meal | A lighter, protein-rich dish that fits into Ramadan meal planning. |
Pro Tip for UAE Kitchens
🥣 Double your sauce batch and keep it in a jar – it’s versatile enough to use as a dressing on noodles, wraps, or even grilled vegetables throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Bon Bon Chicken recipe isn’t just another cold chicken dish- it’s a culinary bridge between simplicity and bold flavor. Whether you’re cooking in a small apartment in Dubai, prepping meals during a hot Abu Dhabi summer, or looking for something refreshing and protein-rich for your family, this dish delivers every time.
Its versatility is what makes it truly shine. You can keep it traditional with shredded poached chicken, sesame sauce, and cucumbers, or make it your own by switching up the protein, adjusting spice levels, or even adding noodles to make it a complete meal. Meal preppers, busy parents, health enthusiasts, and even picky eaters can all find a version of Bon Bon Chicken to enjoy.
What also stands out is its UAE-friendly appeal– a cold, flavorful meal that avoids long stove time and brings a punch of taste without heavy ingredients. You can serve it as a starter, pack it into lunchboxes, or prepare a large batch for weeknight dinners.
This isn’t just a Chinese classic- it’s a global go-to that suits modern kitchens and fast-paced lifestyles. Best of all, it’s easy to make, even if you’re not an experienced cook. With just a few pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes.
So, next time you need a cool, energizing, no-fuss meal, remember Bon Bon Chicken. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s become a favorite from Beijing to the UAE.
FAQs
What is Bon Bon Chicken made of?
Bon Bon Chicken typically includes shredded poached chicken, julienned cucumbers, and a bold sauce made from sesame paste, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and chili oil. It can be customized with noodles or other veggies.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of poaching?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time. Just remove the skin and shred the meat. It absorbs the sauce well and keeps the prep minimal.
How long does Bon Bon Chicken last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, Bon Bon Chicken lasts 3 days in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, keep the sauce and chicken separate until ready to serve.
Is Bon Bon Chicken spicy?
Traditionally, it has a mild kick from chili oil, but you can adjust the heat level. For kids or low-spice diets, simply omit or reduce the chili oil in the sauce.
Can Bon Bon Chicken be served warm?
While it’s designed as a cold dish, you can serve it warm by skipping the chilling step. However, its signature texture and taste are best enjoyed cold, especially in warm climates.
