“Do you crave a little zest in your dinner routine?” This irresistible Bang Bang Chicken Sauce might just be the flavorful miracle you need! Rich with a perfect blend of creaminess and spice, this sauce elevates any fried chicken dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. The versatile recipe is not only quick to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners or memorable gatherings with friends. With its unique balance of sweet and spicy notes, you’ll be creating a go-to sauce that transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary feasts. Are you ready to dive into homemade goodness that delights your taste buds?
Why Is Bang Bang Chicken Sauce So Irresistible?
Delightful Balance: The Bang Bang Chicken Sauce perfectly marries sweet and spicy flavors, making every bite irresistible.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time, it’s an ideal recipe for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without the fuss.
Versatile Uses: This sauce pairs beautifully not only with fried chicken but also with shrimp or tofu, opening up a world of culinary possibilities.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: Impress your family and guests alike—everyone will be begging for seconds of this creamy, zesty delight.
Meal Prepping Friendly: Make the sauce ahead of time for quick meals; it keeps well in the fridge, perfect for whipping out when you’re craving that Bang Bang magic.
Transform your next dinner with this incredible sauce paired alongside a side of steamed rice or fresh salad!
Bang Bang Chicken Sauce Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish; chicken thighs can be used for extra flavor.
• Buttermilk – 1 cup helps tenderize and infuse flavor; substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
• All-Purpose Flour – 1 cup forms the crispy coating; use gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free alternative.
• Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon enhances the flavor; feel free to swap in fresh minced garlic for a stronger punch.
• Onion Powder – 1 teaspoon adds depth; can be omitted if you’re in a pinch.
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon gives color and a hint of smokiness; replace it with cayenne for increased heat.
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon is essential for flavor; adjust according to your preference.
• Black Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon adds subtle heat; freshly ground black pepper will elevate the taste.
• Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; can be substituted with canola or peanut oil for similar results.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – 1/2 cup provides creaminess; Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter take.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – 1/4 cup adds sweetness; honey or agave syrup can serve as alternatives.
• Sriracha – 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste) for the perfect spicy kick; feel free to replace it with your favorite hot sauce.
• Lime Juice – 1 teaspoon adds bright acidity; lemon juice can work as a substitute.
• Honey – 1 teaspoon (optional) sweetens the sauce further; omit if you prefer less sweetness.
Craft this Bang Bang Chicken Sauce to elevate your meal into something truly special!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This will tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor, so grab a large bowl, cover it, and let the chicken soak up the goodness while you prepare for the next steps.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a spacious bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, along with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to break up any lumps, ensuring a smooth mixture. Once the chicken has marinated, coat each piece well in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Let the coated chicken rest on a wire rack for about 10 minutes to help the batter stick better during frying.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
Gather a bowl and mix together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon of sriracha, and 1 teaspoon of lime juice. Stir until smooth, adjusting the balance of sweet and spicy to your preference. If a sweeter sauce is desired, add in 1 teaspoon of honey. Set this heavenly Bang Bang sauce aside, letting the flavors meld together while you fry the chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
In a large frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the marinated and battered chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to paper towels, allowing them to drain and become perfectly crispy.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
On a beautiful serving platter, arrange the crispy fried chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-distributed for an inviting presentation. Drizzle the creamy Bang Bang sauce generously over the chicken, giving it that signature sweet and spicy flair. For an extra pop of color, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds right before serving, creating a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to savor.
Make Ahead Options
These flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Sauce and its accompanying fried chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it stays tender and flavorful. Additionally, the Bang Bang Sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to refrigerate everything until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious meal, fry the marinated chicken until golden and serve it drizzled with the creamy sauce for quick, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Sauce
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Marination Matters: Ensure that the chicken pieces are fully submerged in buttermilk during marination for optimal tenderness and flavor absorption.
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Batter Resting Time: Allow the coated chicken to rest for at least 10 minutes on a wire rack. This helps the batter adhere better while frying and results in a crispier texture.
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Oil Temperature Check: Always check the oil temperature by frying a small piece of batter before cooking the chicken to prevent soggy results and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
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Adjusting Spice Levels: Taste the Bang Bang sauce before serving and adjust the sriracha based on your desired heat level. This ensures a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
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Crispy Drain Technique: After frying, place the chicken on paper towels to drain excess oil, keeping them crisp and not greasy.
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Batch Cooking: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature, which is vital for even cooking and achieving that irresistible crunch.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken Sauce
Refrigerator: Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Sauce in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This allows the flavors to develop further while keeping it deliciously fresh.
Freezer: If you want to make a batch ahead of time, freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Before using, thaw it in the fridge overnight and give it a good stir.
Reheating: When ready to use the sauce, gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. This will preserve the creamy texture without compromising flavor.
Chicken Storage: If you have leftover fried chicken, store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven to maintain its crispiness, then serve with the freshly warmed Bang Bang Chicken Sauce.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Sauce?
Elevate your mealtime experience by pairing the creamy and spicy explosion of this sauce with delightful sides that complement every bite!
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Offers a light, fragrant base that soaks up the rich Bang Bang Chicken Sauce, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
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Crispy Fresh Salad: A bright mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette enhances the dish’s richness and balances out the sauce’s creaminess.
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Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Their earthy flavor and tender texture make a robust companion to the spicy sweetness of the Bang Bang Chicken Sauce.
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Coleslaw: The cool crunchiness of coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast, amplifying the textures and making your meal even more satisfying.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the spicy sauce, bringing a comforting and delightful crunch to the table.
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Chilled Beverages: Pair with a mango lassi or sweet iced tea to balance the spiciness and provide a refreshing complement.
Let your taste buds dance as you enjoy this fabulous meal combination inspired by Bang Bang Chicken Sauce!
Bang Bang Chicken Sauce Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and customize this delightful sauce to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend in place of traditional flour for crispy chicken without the gluten.
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Low-Calorie: Swap out mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to lighten up the sauce while retaining creaminess.
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the Bang Bang Sauce for an extra kick that kicks up your flavor profile.
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Sweet Alternative: If sweet chili sauce isn’t available, honey or maple syrup can create a deliciously sweet alternative for the sauce.
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Coconut Milk: Replace the mayonnaise in the sauce with coconut milk for a tropical twist that adds a creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
Elevate your dish further by serving alongside a fresh salad or some flavorful rice, similar to a Bang Bang Chicken or Mexican Chicken Rice for an exciting meal!
Bang Bang Chicken Sauce Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are firm to the touch and pink in color. Avoid any packs with dark spots or an off smell, as these can indicate spoilage. If you prefer a juicier flavor, consider chicken thighs as a tasty alternative.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Sauce?
You can store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully over time, so it’s just as delightful when you revisit it!
Can I freeze the Bang Bang Chicken Sauce?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, you can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move it to the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to maintain that creamy texture.
How do I store leftover fried chicken?
For any leftover fried chicken, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy. This helps retain the golden crunch while warming it through.
What if my sauce is too spicy? Can I tone it down?
Very! If you find the Bang Bang Sauce too spicy, you can easily balance it out. Consider adding a bit more mayo or sweet chili sauce to mellow the heat. Alternatively, a dash of honey can add sweetness that counteracts the spice. Just mix well and taste as you adjust until it’s perfect for your palate.
Can I use this sauce with other proteins?
Yes, indeed! While this Bang Bang Chicken Sauce shines with fried chicken, it’s wonderfully versatile. You can use it with shrimp, tofu, or even drizzled over grilled vegetables. Feel free to get creative—your taste buds will thank you!
Delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sauce: Sweet & Spicy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and marinate in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- Combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Coat marinated chicken pieces in the flour mixture and let them rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
- Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and honey in a bowl until smooth.
- Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C) and fry chicken pieces in batches for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Arrange fried chicken on a platter, drizzle with Bang Bang sauce, and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds.