“Did you hear about the latest food trend?” a friend exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with excitement. “It’s all about Bang Bang Chicken!” The moment I heard those words, I felt the familiar thrill of culinary adventure creeping in. This dish—crisp-fried chicken enveloped in a dreamy sweet and spicy sauce—has become my go-to for weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings alike. With its scrumptious combination of creamy mayonnaise, zesty Sriracha, and a hint of honey, this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is not just a family favorite; it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that encourages me to say goodbye to fast food. Whether you’re whipping it up for a casual meal or a festive occasion, its quick prep and captivating flavors let you enjoy every moment in the kitchen. So, are you ready to bring a bit of fusion magic into your home cooking? Let’s dive right in!
Why is Bang Bang Chicken a Must-Try?
Crispy Outside, Juicy Inside: This dish features the perfect crunch of panko breadcrumbs, making every bite a delight. Flavors that Dance: The blend of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha creates a taste sensation that excites the palate. Versatile Ingredients: Easily switch up proteins—try shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist! Quick to Prepare: In under an hour, you’ll serve up a dish that rivals your favorite takeout, freeing up time for family or friends. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, your guests are sure to rave about this fusion favorite!
Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides sweetness and tang; homemade versions can work as a delightful substitute.
- Sriracha Sauce – Supplies heat; adjust the amount to suit your spice preference or swap with any favorite hot sauce.
- Honey – Enhances sweetness; maple syrup can offer a tasty variation.
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – Ensures tenderness; chicken breasts can be a suitable alternative.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken; mix milk with vinegar for a DIY buttermilk substitute.
- All-Purpose Flour – Used for coating; opt for gluten-free flour if needing a substitute.
- Cornstarch – Contributes to crispiness; potato starch can be used instead.
- Large Egg – Binds the coating; a flax egg serves as a vegan option.
- Garlic Powder – Adds depth of flavor; fresh minced garlic can be a fresh alternative.
- Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper (optional) – Key seasoning components; adjust salt to dietary needs or use paprika for a milder version.
- Plain Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy texture; regular breadcrumbs are fine but won’t be as crunchy.
- Canola Oil – Used for frying; olive oil can be substituted despite a lower smoke point.
- Chopped Parsley – Garnish for color; chopped green onions can offer a fresh twist.
Your recipe for Bang Bang Chicken is just around the corner, brimming with delightful flavors and textures!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. Aim for a lovely pink hue signaling a harmonious balance of flavors. Once well mixed, set the sauce aside to let the flavors meld while you work on the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, a large egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. This batter should be smooth and somewhat thick; add your chicken tenderloins and coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes, allowing it to soak up those flavorful notes.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Spread the plain panko breadcrumbs out on a large plate. Take each marinated chicken tenderloin, rolling it gently in the breadcrumbs to ensure an even and generous coating. The breadcrumbs should cling well, creating a delightful texture that promises a crispy exterior once fried. Set the coated chicken aside on a clean plate as you prepare for frying.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 1 to 2 inches of canola oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Carefully add the coated chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan; fry each piece for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before removing them from the oil.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once your chicken is done frying, let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the hot chicken with your prepared Bang Bang sauce until fully coated. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve the crispy Bang Bang Chicken warm to make the most of that tantalizing crunch and creamy sauce.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Chicken prepare ahead of time is perfect for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For best results, coat the marinated chicken in panko breadcrumbs right before frying to maintain that delightful crunch. If you prefer, you can also make the Bang Bang sauce in advance and keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply fry the chicken until golden brown and measure the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F. This method allows you to enjoy crispy, flavorful Bang Bang Chicken with minimal effort on busy evenings!
Bang Bang Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Bang Bang Chicken that can enhance flavor or cater to your dietary needs.
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Shrimp: Swap chicken for shrimp for a lighter touch; just peel and devein before coating.
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Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu; press to remove excess moisture, then cube and follow the same marinating and coating process.
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Cauliflower: Use bite-sized cauliflower florets as a gluten-free, veggie-packed alternative; roast or fry until golden and crispy.
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Sweet Heat: Add a splash of pineapple juice to the sauce for a tropical twist that balances sweet and spicy perfectly.
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Spicy Crunch: Mix some crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumbs for extra crunch and heat!
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Creamy Avocado Sauce: Experiment with a creamy avocado dip instead of the traditional sauce; it’s a refreshing and healthier substitute.
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Air Fryer: For a guilt-free option, air fry the coated chicken at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes; it’s still crispy without all the oil.
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Maple-Glazed: Mix maple syrup with the sauce for a savory-sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with your crispy bites, giving a cozy autumn feel.
Whether you choose to explore the vibrant flavors of Vegan Orange Chicken or indulge in some hearty Mexican Chicken Rice, these variations will surely elevate your baking experience!
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken
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Oil Temperature Matters: Always fry at 365°F for crispy chicken. If the oil is too cool, the coating becomes soggy instead of crunchy.
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Uniform Pieces: Cut chicken tenders to a uniform size for even cooking. This ensures all pieces achieve that perfect crispness and tenderness.
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Adjust the Spice: For a spicier Bang Bang Chicken, don’t hesitate to add more Sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper. Tailor the heat to your family’s preference!
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Baking Option: Looking for a healthier twist? Try air frying or baking the chicken instead of deep frying. It can be just as delicious with less oil!
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Make-Ahead Sauce: Prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to develop and makes meal prep a breeze!
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
- Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Enjoy within 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply place the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring it retains its crunch.
- Sauce Storage: Keep any leftover sauce in the fridge for up to 1 week; stir well before using again for a deliciously creamy experience.
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Bring a burst of flavor to your table with perfect pairings that complement your crispy creation!
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, this rice absorbs the luscious Bang Bang sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
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Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, a simple cucumber salad adds a cool contrast, brightening up each bite of the spicy chicken.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of these fries perfectly offsets the heat of the sauce, making them an irresistible side to enjoy alongside.
Each of these sides not only enhances the flavors of Bang Bang Chicken but also adds a delightful mix of textures, elevating your dining experience. Consider pairing with sparkling water or a refreshing iced tea to cleanse the palate between bites!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Bang Bang Chicken?
I recommend using boneless skinless chicken tenderloins for their tenderness, but chicken breasts work wonderfully too! Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure the chicken is cooled down before sealing to avoid moisture build-up, which can lead to sogginess.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, first arrange cooked Bang Bang Chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer until solid. Then transfer the pieces to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
How do I reheat Bang Bang Chicken for the best texture?
To reheat and maintain that delightful crunch, preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method prevents the chicken from getting soggy, keeping it crispy!
What if I have leftover sauce?
You can store any leftover Bang Bang sauce in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just give it a good stir before using again, and it’ll be just as creamy and delicious!
Are there alternatives for some of the ingredients in Bang Bang Chicken?
Definitely! For a lighter option, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also substitute honey with maple syrup for a different sweet note or use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs if required. If you want to change the protein, try shrimp or tofu for a delightful variation!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken That'll Spice Up Your Dinner Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Sauce: Combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a medium bowl. Blend until smooth and set aside.
- Marinate the Chicken: Whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne in a large bowl. Add chicken and coat thoroughly. Marinate for 10 minutes.
- Coat the Chicken: Spread panko breadcrumbs on a plate and roll each marinated chicken tenderloin in the breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat canola oil until it reaches 365°F. Fry the chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Finish and Serve: Drain the fried chicken on paper towels. Toss hot chicken with the Bang Bang sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.