Aromatic spices filled the air as I flipped through my recipe book, dreaming of an easy dish that could qualify as both comfort food and a crowd-pleaser. That’s when I stumbled upon the irresistible Bang Bang Chicken! This crispy fried delight, drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce, is perfect for transforming a simple dinner into a delightful feast. Not only is it quick to whip up, but it’s also a versatile favorite that can dazzle your guests or satisfy a weeknight craving. Whether you’re serving it as a tantalizing appetizer or a main course alongside jasmine rice, you’ll feel good knowing you’re skipping the drive-thru in favor of something homemade and extraordinary. Curious about how to achieve the perfect crunch and flavor balance? Let’s dive into this delicious culinary adventure together! Why is Bang Bang Chicken a must-try? Irresistible Crunch: The crispy exterior of the chicken combined with a tender interior makes every bite a delight. Bold Fusion Flavors: The sweet and spicy sauce elevates this dish, tantalizing your taste buds with exciting flavors. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe takes minimal time and effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying your meal. Customizable Ingredients: Whether you prefer air frying or baking, you can easily tailor this recipe to fit healthier cooking methods. Crowd-Pleasing Charm: Ideal for both family dinners and entertaining guests, Bang Bang Chicken is sure to impress! Pair it with recipes like Napa Chicken Salad or Cashew Chicken for a perfect meal! Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients • Get ready to whip up something delicious! For the Sauce Mayonnaise – The creamy base gives a rich texture; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist. Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – This adds the perfect hint of sweetness; no direct substitute, but mixing honey with a dash of vinegar can offer a similar profile. Sriracha Sauce – Provides a spicy kick; you can adjust the amount to match your desired heat or swap for your favorite hot sauce. Honey – Sweetens and balances the sauce; maple syrup can work beautifully as an alternative. For the Chicken Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – The star of the show, tender and juicy; chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer. Buttermilk – Ensures moisture and flavor in the chicken; mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar as a tasty replacement. All-Purpose Flour – Key for the breading; swap for whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Cornstarch – Delivers that coveted crispy texture; feel free to use potato starch if that’s what you have on hand. Egg – Binds everything nicely; for a vegan twist, mix flaxseed meal with water instead. Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor; if you prefer something fresher, use minced garlic instead. Panko Breadcrumbs – Offers a delightful crunch; regular breadcrumbs can be used, though the texture will be different. For Frying Canola Oil – Essential for frying and achieving that golden crisp; substitute with vegetable or peanut oil if preferred. For Garnish Chopped Parsley – Adds a pop of freshness and color; you can replace it with chives or omit it entirely if desired. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into creating this Bang Bang Chicken masterpiece that is sure to wow all at your dinner table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken Step 1: Make the Bang Bang Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and set it aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the chicken. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Marinade In another large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Submerge the boneless skinless chicken tenderloins into the marinade, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for about 10 minutes, which will enhance its moisture and flavor. Step 3: Coat the Chicken Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a large plate. Remove the marinated chicken from the mixture and let any excess marinade drip off. Coat each piece of chicken generously in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing down lightly to ensure adherence. Once all pieces are coated, set them aside on a clean plate. Step 4: Fry the Chicken In a deep skillet, heat about half an inch of canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Carefully place the breaded chicken tenderloins in the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for 2-3 minutes, or until they appear golden brown and crispy, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Step 5: Drain and Toss Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. After a minute, place the hot chicken into a large mixing bowl and pour the prepared Bang Bang Sauce over it. Toss the chicken gently until every piece is evenly coated with the delightful sweet and spicy sauce. Step 6: Garnish and Serve Finally, transfer the coated Bang Bang Chicken to a serving platter. For an appealing touch, garnish it with fresh chopped parsley, adding a vibrant touch to the dish. Serve the chicken warm as an appetizer or main course, savoring the delightful crunch and flavorful sauce that’s sure to impress your guests. Bang Bang Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative with this beloved recipe and customize it for your taste buds! Crispy Air-Fried: Use an air fryer instead of frying for a healthier option, achieving that golden crisp with less oil. Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist that pairs beautifully with the Bang Bang sauce. Tofu Delight: For a vegan option, swap chicken for firm tofu, coated and fried until crispy, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce. Cauliflower Bites: Try cauliflower florets as a hearty veggie alternative; they will soak up the sauce wonderfully while providing great texture. Flavor Boosters: Add a splash of lime juice or fresh chili flakes to the sauce for an extra zing that brightens the flavor profile. Honey-Mustard Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of honey mustard with the Bang Bang sauce for a tangy kick that complements the sweetness beautifully. Maple-Pecan Crunch: For a sweet and nutty variation, add crushed pecans to the panko breadcrumb coating for added crunch. Sweet Potato Fries: Serve alongside sweet potato fries instead of jasmine rice for a nutritious side that balances the dish’s heat and sweetness. Don’t forget to explore serving ideas, check out Napa Chicken Salad or pair with Bang Bang Chicken Bowl for a delicious meal! How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep it fresh and flavorful. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last for up to 3 months. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore that delicious crispy texture. Avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess. Storage Tips: Separate the sauce from the chicken before storing to maintain the crispy coating until ready to serve. What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Transform your meal into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that complement the bold flavors of the crispy chicken. Jasmine Rice: A fragrant base that soaks up the flavorful sauce, making each bite even more delightful. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad adds a cool contrast to the spicy chicken, balancing the meal beautifully. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and sweet, these fries offer a wonderful texture difference and complement the dish’s spiciness. Steamed Broccoli: A simple, healthy side that brings a touch of vibrant green and adds nutritious balance to your plate. Asian Slaw: Crisp vegetables tossed in a tangy dressing offer a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the savory chicken. Mango Smoothie: This refreshing drink amplifies the sweet and spicy flavors of the chicken, making it a delightful accompaniment. Imagine serving the Bang Bang Chicken with a side of jasmine rice, cucumber salad, and sweet potato fries. Each bite engages your taste buds, creating a meal that is unforgettable! Make Ahead Options These Bang Bang Chicken tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture and coat it in panko breadcrumbs up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate to keep the coating crispy. The Bang Bang sauce can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just fry the chicken and toss it in the sauce for a quick meal that stays just as delicious. To preserve the quality, reheat fried chicken in the oven for 10 minutes at 375°F, ensuring it retains its crispy texture. Enjoy a delightful homemade dish without the last-minute rush! Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Perfect Oil Temperature: Keep your oil at 365°F to ensure a golden, crispy coating without excessive greasiness. Using a thermometer can help maintain accuracy. Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 10 minutes helps lock in moisture and enhances flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step for the juiciest results! Breadcrumbs for Crunch: Use panko breadcrumbs for the best crispy texture. Press them onto the chicken firmly to ensure they stick well during frying. Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your spice tolerance. A little goes a long way, and you can always add more if needed. Healthier Cooking Options: For a lighter version of Bang Bang Chicken, consider air frying or baking instead of frying. It still delivers great taste with less oil! Experiment with Substitutes: Don’t hesitate to modify ingredients based on your preferences, such as using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier sauce option. Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! For the crispiest results, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken tenderloins as they cook quickly and absorb flavor beautifully. If you can’t find tenderloins, chicken breasts work well too, just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. What is the best way to store leftover Bang Bang Chicken? Very! To keep leftover Bang Bang Chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, I suggest using an oven or air fryer for the best results, as it will help restore the crispy texture rather than using the microwave, which can make it soggy. Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken? The more the merrier! To freeze Bang Bang Chicken, place it in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in the oven or air fryer, avoiding the microwave to maintain that lovely crunch. What if my chicken isn’t crispy enough? No worries! If your chicken isn’t coming out as crispy as you’d like, ensure the oil is hot enough (around 365°F) before adding the chicken. Cooking in batches can also help prevent overcrowding in the pan, which can lower the temperature. Lastly, make sure you’re using panko breadcrumbs, as they provide that extra crunch! Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! If you have allergies, take note of the ingredients in the sauce, such as mayonnaise and potentially gluten in the breadcrumbs. You can substitute with Greek yogurt or gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions. And for a vegan alternative, swap out the chicken for tofu or cauliflower, and substitute the egg in the batter with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water! Crispy Bang Bang Chicken That'll Wow Your Dinner Guests This crispy fried Bang Bang Chicken, drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce, transforms a simple dinner into an extraordinary feast. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: ChickenCuisine: AsianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sauce1/2 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for lighter option.1/4 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce1 tablespoon Sriracha Sauce Adjust for spiciness.1 tablespoon Honey Maple syrup can be used as an alternative.For the Chicken1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins Chicken breasts may be used.1 cup Buttermilk Use a mixture of 1 cup milk and 1 tablespoon vinegar as a substitute.1 cup All-Purpose Flour Whole wheat flour is a healthier option.1/4 cup Cornstarch Potato starch can be an alternative.1 large Egg Flaxseed meal with water can be used for vegan option.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Minced garlic can be used instead.1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs can also be used.For Frying2 cups Canola Oil Vegetable or peanut oil can be used as substitutes.For Garnish1/4 cup Chopped Parsley Can be replaced with chives or omitted. Equipment Mixing BowlSkilletwhiskPlateMeasuring cupsThermometer Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Bang Bang ChickenIn a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Cover and set aside.In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Submerge chicken in the marinade for about 10 minutes.Spread panko breadcrumbs on a plate. Remove marinated chicken, let excess drip off, and coat in panko, pressing lightly.Heat oil in a skillet to 365°F. Fry chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.Drain cooked chicken on paper towels. In a bowl, toss chicken with Bang Bang Sauce until coated.Transfer chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with parsley and serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken, which can last for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
