Scrolling through my feed, I stumbled upon a vibrant picture of crispy fried chicken drizzled with a creamy, spicy sauce. My curiosity piqued, I learned it was none other than Bang Bang Chicken—a dish known for its addictive crunch and luscious flavors. This recipe stands out as not just a quick fix for your cravings, but also a festive crowd-pleaser that can transform any gathering. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner or serving it at a party, this crispy Bang Bang Chicken will have everyone reaching for seconds. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for different proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower, and can be made healthier by baking or air-frying. Are you ready to dive into this delightful culinary adventure?
Why is Bang Bang Chicken a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The fusion of sweet, spicy, and creamy notes makes each bite a flavor explosion.
Versatile Options: Easily swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower to suit various dietary needs.
Quick Cooking Time: With just a few simple steps, this dish comes together in no time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, everyone loves crispy Bang Bang Chicken!
Easy to Customize: Adjust the spice level to your liking with Sriracha, making it as mild or fiery as you prefer.
Plus, serve it alongside steamed jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal!
Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Provides a creamy base for the sauce; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweetness and tang; use salsa for a spicier twist.
• Sriracha Sauce – Offers heat and a tangy flavor; adjust quantity for the desired spice level.
• Honey – Balances the spiciness with sweetness; maple syrup can be used as a vegan substitute.
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – The main protein, ensuring tenderness; chicken breasts can be used as an alternative.
• Buttermilk – Helps to tenderize the chicken and add moisture; substitute with plain yogurt thinned with water.
• All-Purpose Flour & Cornstarch – Create a crispy coating; for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour.
• Egg – Acts as a binder for the coating; use a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Provides extra crunch; regular breadcrumbs can be used, though they might be less crispy.
• Canola Oil – Used for frying; substitute with vegetable or peanut oil.
For Garnishing
• Chopped Parsley – For garnishing; optional but adds color and freshness to your Bang Bang Chicken.
This delicious blend of ingredients ensures your Bang Bang Chicken is as crispy and flavorful as it deserves to be!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon honey until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the Sriracha for your preferred spice level. Set the bowl aside, and admire the vibrant colors of your Bang Bang sauce as it develops the flavors that will envelop the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken
In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup buttermilk, ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup cornstarch, 1 beaten egg, and your choice of seasonings like salt and pepper. Submerge 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken tenderloins in the mixture, coating evenly. Let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes to infuse moisture and flavor, ensuring a tender result.
Step 3: Coat Chicken
After marination, remove each chicken tender and dredge it in 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they adhere well. The goal is a thick, crunchy coating that will make your Bang Bang Chicken irresistibly crispy when fried.
Step 4: Fry Chicken
Heat 2 inches of canola oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium-high heat to 365°F. Carefully add the breaded chicken in batches, frying them for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side. Watch for a golden-brown color to signal they’re ready, ensuring each piece reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for fully cooked chicken.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the chicken is fried to perfection, transfer the tenders onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. In a large bowl, toss the crispy Bang Bang Chicken with the prepared sauce until each piece is thoroughly coated. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve immediately while they’re still warm and scrumptious!
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
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Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid storing Bang Bang Chicken at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth. Serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.
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Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps your crispy Bang Bang Chicken fresh and ready for later enjoyment.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Bang Bang Chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: To maintain the crispiness, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, rather than microwaving.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Chicken tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it remains tender and flavorful. Additionally, you can prepare the Bang Bang sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the flavors will meld beautifully over time! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply dredge the marinated chicken in panko breadcrumbs, fry or bake until golden, and toss with the sauce before serving. This way, you’ll achieve delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Transform your dining experience with sides that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of this crispy delight.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice soaks up the creamy Bang Bang sauce, balancing the dish’s intense flavors while adding a comforting touch.
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Cucumber Salad: A fresh and crunchy cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the chicken, offering a refreshing contrast.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the spicy sauce, providing a satisfying crunch alongside the tender chicken.
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Garlic Noodles: Quick and flavorful, garlic noodles deliver a savory garlicky aroma that pairs splendidly with the bold spices of Bang Bang Chicken.
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Asian Slaw: A colorful mix of cabbage and carrots tossed in a citrusy vinaigrette adds brightness and texture, enhancing your meal with a delightful crunch.
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Mango Salsa: The sweet, juicy mango balances the spice, bringing a burst of tropical flavor that dances on your palate alongside the crispy tenders.
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Chilled Sake: This smooth Japanese rice wine has a slightly sweet finish that complements the spicy notes of the Bang Bang Chicken, making it a divine pairing.
Bang Bang Chicken Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this recipe and explore exciting new flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Shrimp Swap: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a quick and succulent twist—just adjust cooking time to achieve that perfect pink color.
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Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian option, swap in tofu. Press and marinate the tofu cubes for enhanced flavor before breading.
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Cauliflower Crunch: Replace chicken with cauliflower florets for a delightful and hearty vegan version; roast them for extra textures.
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Baked Goodness: Try baking the breaded chicken at 400°F for about 20 minutes for a healthier alternative that still maintains crunch.
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Flavor Boost: Add lime juice or zest to the sauce for a refreshing citrusy note that perfectly balances the spiciness.
Remember, if you enjoy a creamy combination of flavors, you might find inspiration in other delicious recipes like Garlic Parmesan Chicken or for another crowd-pleaser, consider Bang Bang Shrimp!
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Heat Adjustment: Increase the Sriracha or add poblano peppers to the sauce for a tangy, fiery kick!
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Crunch-Master: For even crunchier breading, mix in crushed cornflakes with the panko breadcrumbs; it’ll become your new secret weapon.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
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Frying Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 365°F for that perfect crispy texture, preventing sogginess and ensuring even cooking.
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Spice Adjustment: Add more Sriracha or cayenne pepper for an extra kick in your sauce; keep tasting until it meets your desired heat level.
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Marinating Time: Don’t skip the 10-minute marination for the chicken! It’s essential for enhancing moisture and flavor in your Bang Bang Chicken.
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Crispy Coating: Ensure each piece of chicken is well-coated with panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch; pressing gently while breading helps.
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Alternative Cooking Methods: For a healthier twist, consider air frying or baking the chicken instead of deep frying; adjust cooking times accordingly.
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Leftover Storage: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days, and reheating in an air fryer keeps the coating crispy.
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Bang Bang Chicken?
For the crispiest and tender texture, boneless skinless chicken tenderloins are ideal. However, you can also substitute with chicken breasts, which are equally delicious, just ensure they are properly cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Leftover Bang Bang Chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, which helps to retain that wonderful crunch!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze Bang Bang Chicken for up to 3 months. To do this, lay the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to eat, you may want to fry them from frozen for the best results!
What should I do if my chicken is not crispy?
If your Bang Bang Chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, it could be due to the oil temperature being too low while frying or insufficient coating of panko breadcrumbs. Ensure your oil is heated to 365°F and that each tender has a generous layer of breadcrumbs pressed firmly into the chicken for maximum crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you need a gluten-free option, you can replace all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce. If you’re vegan, swap the chicken with tofu or cauliflower and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken pairs perfectly with sides like steamed jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or sweet potato fries. These options complement the dish nicely and help create a well-rounded meal, making every bite a wondeful experience!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Delight at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon honey until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup buttermilk, ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup cornstarch, 1 beaten egg, and seasonings. Submerge 1 pound of chicken, then let marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Remove each chicken tender and dredge in 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they adhere well for a thick coating.
- Heat 2 inches of canola oil in a deep skillet to 365°F. Fry the chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, then toss with the prepared sauce and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.
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