Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that combines crispy perfection with a kick of flavor, then you’ve come to the right place! Bang Bang Chicken is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The tender chicken, perfectly fried to golden brown, paired with that rich and creamy homemade bang bang sauce—it’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

What I love most about Bang Bang Chicken is how versatile it is. You can serve it as an appetizer, make it the star of your dinner table, or even pack it for lunch the next day. It’s delicious, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the crunchy chicken and zesty sauce.
• Make-ahead option: You can marinate your chicken earlier in the day for even more flavor.
• Versatile serving options: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even in wraps!
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of textures and flavors will keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple and wholesome items that are likely already in your kitchen. Each one plays a role in creating that unforgettable Bang Bang Chicken experience.

For the Sauce

• 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
• ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup (245 g) buttermilk
• ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (64 g) cornstarch
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs (plain)
• Canola oil (for frying)
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to customize it to your tastes, here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even shrimp for a different twist!
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews for added texture.
• Make it spicy: Increase the Sriracha in both the sauce and breading if you like things hot!
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives for a safe option.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by marinating your chicken tenderloins in buttermilk for at least 15 minutes. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also helps the breadcrumbs stick better when we coat them later. Plus, it adds extra moisture!

Step 2: Mix Your Sauce

While your chicken is soaking up that goodness, let’s whip up our bang bang sauce! In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until smooth and set aside. This sauce is where all those delicious flavors come together!

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Once your chicken has soaked, mix together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper in one bowl. In another bowl, whisk together an egg with some Sriracha. Now it’s time to coat each piece of chicken first in the dry mixture and then dip into the egg wash before finalizing with panko breadcrumbs. This three-step coating process ensures each piece gets super crispy when fried!

Step 4: Fry Them Up

In a deep pan or fryer, heat about two inches of canola oil over medium-high heat. Once hot enough (you can test by dropping in a breadcrumb; if it sizzles immediately), gently place your coated chicken pieces into the oil. Fry until golden brown—about six minutes total—flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Serve with Style

Once fried to perfection, drain excess oil on paper towels and drizzle generously with your homemade bang bang sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for that pop of color! Serve immediately while they’re still hot and crispy.

And there you have it—delicious Bang Bang Chicken made right at home! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Making the perfect Bang Bang Chicken is all about attention to detail and a bit of practice. Here are some pro tips to ensure your dish turns out spectacular every time:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality sauces will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. It makes a world of difference in taste!

• Control the oil temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying (around 350°F or 175°C). This helps achieve that perfect crispy crust without soaking the chicken in oil.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding can lower the temperature, resulting in soggy pieces instead of crispy ones.

• Let it rest: After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack for a few minutes. This keeps it crispy by allowing excess oil to drain away.

• Experiment with spice levels: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in both the sauce and batter according to your heat preference. This way, you can customize it perfectly for you and your guests!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is not only delicious but also visually appealing when presented well. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nice crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving brightens up all the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of Bang Bang Chicken.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Lightly fragrant jasmine rice is an excellent base that soaks up any excess sauce while balancing out the meal.

• Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasting seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots brings out their natural sweetness, making them a great companion for this dish.

• Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and salty fries add an extra layer of flavor while being a healthier alternative to regular fries, creating a delightful pairing with Bang Bang Chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you can elevate your Bang Bang Chicken experience from simple dinner to an extraordinary culinary affair! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Bang Bang Chicken is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it properly, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• To keep the chicken crispy, use a paper towel to absorb any moisture inside the container.

Freezing

• Allow Bang Bang Chicken to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in an air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Chicken that might help you out!

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish featuring panko-crusted chicken tenderloins fried until golden and served with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that adds fantastic flavor.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. This way, everyone can enjoy this crispy treat.

How can I customize the bang bang sauce?

Feel free to adjust the spiciness by adding more or less Sriracha according to your taste. You can also add lime juice for a zesty twist!

Is Bang Bang Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It’s great for meal prep as it stores well and can be reheated while retaining its crispiness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to try making this amazing Bang Bang Chicken recipe! It’s such a fun dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. With its crispy exterior and flavorful sauce, it’s sure to be a hit! Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience in the comments below. Happy cooking!