The moment I first tasted Bang Bang Chicken, it felt like I had unlocked a secret door to flavor town! Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy, golden chicken, each bite bursting with the perfect blend of sweetness and spice. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, inspired by the vibrant flavors of Sichuan cuisine and tailored for Western palates. It’s no wonder this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen—ideal as an appetizer for gatherings or as a fun main course for family dinners.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef in the kitchen or just looking for an easy way to impress guests, this crispy Bang Bang Chicken delivers mouthwatering goodness without fuss. With tender chicken enveloped in a creamy sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will turn any meal into a celebration. So, if you’re tired of the same old fast food and ready to elevate your cooking game, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to spark joy at your table!
Why is Bang Bang Chicken a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite of this crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a thrilling mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that keeps you coming back for more.
Quick and Easy: Perfectly suited for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings, this recipe requires minimal prep time while delivering maximum taste.
Versatile Dish: Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, its adaptability makes it a hit on any table.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and adults alike will love the crunch and tasty sauce, making it a go-to family favorite.
Customizable Options: With alternatives for chicken, shrimp, or even cauliflower, you can tailor it to suit various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
Creamy Sauce Ingredients:
• Mayonnaise – Adds a rich creaminess; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides a delightful sweetness and mild heat; no direct substitute, but honey mixed with hot sauce can work in a pinch.
• Sriracha Sauce – Brings the perfect spice; adjust the quantity to suit your heat preference.
• Honey – Adds extra sweetness; maple syrup can serve as a vegan alternative.
Chicken Coating Ingredients:
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – The protein base of the dish; shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower can be great substitutes.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken; use regular milk with a splash of vinegar if unavailable.
• All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the coating agent; gluten-free flour is a great substitute.
• Cornstarch – Enhances crispiness; can be omitted for a simpler preparation.
• Egg – Serves as a binder; for vegan options, swap it for a flaxseed or chia seed mix.
• Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; use fresh minced garlic for a sharper taste if preferred.
• Salt – Enhances flavors; try sea salt for a different texture.
• Black Pepper – Basic seasoning; white pepper can provide a milder flavor.
• Cayenne Pepper – Adds optional heat; skip it for a milder taste.
• Plain Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates that irresistible crispy coating; regular breadcrumbs can also be used but will yield a less crunchy texture.
Cooking and Garnishing Ingredients:
• Canola Oil – The frying medium; vegetable or peanut oil are excellent alternatives.
• Chopped Parsley – For garnish; can be replaced with green onions for an added flavor pop.
Dive into these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating a mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken
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Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk together until smooth and evenly mixed, then set aside for later.
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Prepare Chicken Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne until the mixture is smooth. Add the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they’re evenly coated, and let them marinate for about 10 minutes.
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Coat the Chicken: Spread panko breadcrumbs out on a large plate. Take the marinated chicken out and gently remove excess liquid before pressing each piece into the breadcrumbs, ensuring a generous coat sticks to the surface.
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Fry the Chicken: Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, aiming for 365°F. Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Drain and Toss: Use a slotted spatula to transfer the fried chicken onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Once drained, toss the crispy chicken in the prepared Bang Bang Sauce until well coated.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness, and serve immediately while warm for the best experience.
Optional: For an extra kick, add some sliced jalapeños on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Elevate your meal by pairing this crispy Bang Bang Chicken with delightful sides that balance flavors and textures.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the sweet and spicy sauce, making every bite satisfying. A classic choice that harmonizes beautifully with the dish.
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Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, a cucumber salad complements the rich chicken perfectly. Toss cucumbers with rice vinegar and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra pop!
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their caramelized sweetness contrasts wonderfully with the savory notes of the Bang Bang Chicken. Plus, who doesn’t love fries?
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Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a vibrant element to the meal while its tanginess balances the dish’s richness, providing a welcoming crunch with every mouthful.
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Garlic Noodles: These are buttery, garlicky bliss that perfectly pairs with the bold flavors of the Bang Bang Chicken. The noodles absorb the sauce, creating a deliciously cohesive plate.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and light, it cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing the incredible flavor experience of your meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse is a lovely finale. Its sweetness beautifully contrasts with the spiciness of the chicken, leaving everyone satisfied.
Bang Bang Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Bang Bang Chicken and explore these tasty alternatives!
- Seafood Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a delicious seafood twist that complements the sauce beautifully.
- Vegan Option: Use crispy breaded tofu or cauliflower as a delicious plant-based alternative that absorbs the juicy flavors.
- Baked Delight: Bake the chicken instead of frying for a guilt-free version that still retains a delightful crunch.
- Zesty Citrus: Add zest from a lime or lemon to the sauce for a bright, refreshing flavor that elevates each bite!
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed peanuts or cashews on top for added texture and a nutty flavor contrast.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the Sriracha or add some diced jalapeños to the batter for an extra spicy adventure.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the sauce for a fragrant and flavorful twist.
- Gluten-Free Crunch: Swap all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing crunch.
Embrace these variations and let your culinary journey take flight, creating a Bang Bang Chicken experience uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep everything fresh, store the coated chicken in an airtight container in the fridge, and fry just before serving for that perfect crispy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry the chicken as instructed, toss it in the Bang Bang Sauce, and you’ll have a delightful dish that tastes just as delicious, ready in no time!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir the sauce before using it again for maximum flavor freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze battered, uncooked chicken pieces on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen without thawing.
Reheating: Reheat leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to preserve crispiness.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with fresh sides like a salad or rice to enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken straight from the fridge or freezer.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the frying oil at a steady 365°F to achieve optimal crispiness. Too low and your chicken may absorb too much oil.
- Control Spice Level: For a spicier sauce, feel free to increase the Sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne. Adjust according to your family’s taste to avoid overwhelming heat.
- Healthy Alternatives: Consider baking or air-frying the chicken instead of deep-frying. This method creates a lighter dish without sacrificing that delicious crunchy texture of Bang Bang Chicken.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken is thoroughly cooked by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and juicy results.
- Chicken Substitutions: If you’re looking to cater to different dietary preferences, shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower make fantastic alternatives while still providing that sought-after crunch.
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Bang Bang Chicken?
Using boneless skinless chicken tenderloins is ideal for this recipe, as they cook quickly and remain tender. If you’re looking to switch it up, shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower make excellent substitutes without losing that signature flavor.
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How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, stir the sauce before using it to ensure it remains well mixed and flavorful.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! For freezing, prepare the battered, uncooked chicken pieces first. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, you can bake them straight from frozen without thawing—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if my chicken doesn’t turn out crispy?
If your Bang Bang Chicken isn’t achieving that delightful crispiness, ensure the oil is hot enough (around 365°F) before frying. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature. For extra crunch, you can double coat the chicken by dipping it in the egg mixture, then again in the breadcrumbs.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and gluten. For those with egg allergies, you can use a flaxseed or chia seed mix as a binder. For dairy, substituting regular milk with plant-based options like almond or soy milk and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives can make the dish more inclusive. Always check specific product labels for potential allergens.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with a Sweet Spicy Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk together until smooth and evenly mixed, then set aside for later.
- Prepare Chicken Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne until the mixture is smooth. Add the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they’re evenly coated, and let them marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Coat the Chicken: Spread panko breadcrumbs out on a large plate. Take the marinated chicken out and gently remove excess liquid before pressing each piece into the breadcrumbs, ensuring a generous coat sticks to the surface.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, aiming for 365°F. Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Drain and Toss: Use a slotted spatula to transfer the fried chicken onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Once drained, toss the crispy chicken in the prepared Bang Bang Sauce until well coated.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness, and serve immediately while warm for the best experience.
