If you are craving something crispy, creamy, and bursting with sweet heat, this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is guaranteed to become your new favorite. Bringing together tender chicken tenderloins coated in a crunchy panko crust and tossed in a luscious, spicy sauce, it’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. This dish is not only supremely satisfying but also quick enough to whip up on a weeknight, making it a winner for anyone who loves a little excitement on their dinner plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for the magic of this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, from the buttermilk’s tenderizing effect to the crunch of panko breadcrumbs, and the sauce’s harmonious blend of sweetness and spice.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for the signature sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
- ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a mild kick to the sauce.
- 1 tsp Sriracha sauce: Brings a touch of heat to the sauce’s flavor profile.
- 2 tbsp honey: Balances the spice with natural sweetness.
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins: Tender cuts ideal for quick frying and perfect bite-sized pieces.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the first layer of crispiness.
- ½ cup cornstarch: Ensures an extra-crispy crust once fried.
- 1 large egg: Binds the flour and cornstarch coating to the chicken.
- 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce: Kicks up the spice in the chicken dredge.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds savory depth to the seasoning.
- ½ tsp kosher salt: Enhances overall flavor.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Adds subtle heat and aroma.
- â…› tsp cayenne pepper (optional): For anyone who loves an extra spicy punch.
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs: Delivers that iconic airy crunch that defines this dish.
- Canola oil, for frying: Neutral-flavored and ideal for frying to golden perfection.
- Chopped parsley, for garnish: A fresh, colorful finish that brightens the plate.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by mixing together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 teaspoon of Sriracha, and honey in a bowl. This creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce is the crown jewel of your Bang Bang Chicken Recipe. Taste and adjust the heat if you prefer it spicier or milder—this sauce perfectly balances boldness with smoothness.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Pour the buttermilk into a large bowl and add the chicken tenderloins. Let them soak for 10 to 15 minutes; this step tenderizes the chicken and ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful. Meanwhile, mix the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and 1 tablespoon of Sriracha in another bowl to create the flavorful dredging mixture.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, shaking off excess liquid, then dip each tenderloin into the egg bowl. Next, dredge the chicken thoroughly in the flour-cornstarch mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly. Finally, press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs for that irresistible crunch you’re after.
Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat canola oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat—about 350°F (175°C) is ideal. Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook each piece for approximately 3–4 minutes per side until deeply golden and crispy. Drain the cooked chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to keep them crisp.
Step 5: Toss in the Signature Sauce
While the chicken is still warm, toss it gently in the prepared Bang Bang sauce until well coated. This step ensures each bite delivers the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and spicy flavors. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped parsley generously over the dish to add a burst of fresh green color and a subtle herbal note that complements the rich sauce. For an extra touch, a few sesame seeds or thinly sliced scallions create additional texture and presentation appeal.
Side Dishes
Classic pairings for Bang Bang Chicken Recipe include fluffy jasmine rice, crisp Asian slaw, or simply steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. These sides help balance the richness of the chicken and provide a refreshing contrast to the vibrant sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the chicken over a bed of garlic fried rice or make it the star of a crunchy salad with cabbage and carrots for a light yet indulgent meal. For a fun twist, try stuffing crispy chicken bites into soft tacos topped with shredded lettuce and a drizzle of extra Bang Bang sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce and chicken separate if possible to maintain the coating’s crispiness.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken without sauce by placing the pieces on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer container. Frozen chicken lasts up to 1 month. The sauce is best made fresh to retain its creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy. Once heated, toss with freshly made Bang Bang sauce for a revitalized dish.
FAQs
What makes this a Bang Bang Chicken Recipe?
It’s the distinct creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce paired with crispy chicken that defines the Bang Bang Chicken Recipe. The balance of flavors and textures is what truly sets it apart.
Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Absolutely! You can slice chicken breasts into strips and follow the same preparation steps. Just be mindful of cooking time since thicker pieces may need a little longer in the oil.
Is there a healthier way to prepare Bang Bang Chicken Recipe?
Yes, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Coat the chicken as usual, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment, and bake at 425°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. It’s a lighter option without compromising too much on texture.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
Definitely! Start with less Sriracha and add more gradually to suit your heat preference. The sauce is very forgiving and customizable to your taste buds.
What other dipping sauces pair well with Bang Bang Chicken Recipe?
If you want to mix things up, try a cool ranch dip, a tangy yogurt sauce, or even a classic sweet and sour sauce to complement the flavors of the chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is a joyful celebration of flavor and texture that anyone can master in their own kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or impressing guests, it’s sure to bring smiles and satisfy cravings. Dive in and enjoy every crispy, creamy, spicy bite—you just might find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken tenders coated in a crunchy panko crust and topped with a creamy, spicy, sweet Bang Bang sauce. This recipe balances heat and sweetness perfectly, making it a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course that’s easy to prepare and quick to cook.
Ingredients
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp Sriracha sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- â…› tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Canola oil, for frying
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 teaspoon of Sriracha sauce, and honey until smooth and well combined. Set aside to let flavors meld.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pour the buttermilk over the chicken tenderloins in a large bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes to tenderize and add moisture.
- Prepare the Breading Stations: In one bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the egg with 1 tablespoon of Sriracha sauce. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece first in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat about 1-2 inches of canola oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the breaded chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Assemble and Serve: Place the fried chicken on a serving platter, drizzle generously with the prepared Bang Bang sauce, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately for the best crispness and flavor.
Notes
- Be sure to maintain the oil temperature to ensure crispy, non-greasy chicken.
- For extra heat, increase the amount of Sriracha in the sauce or sprinkle cayenne in the flour mixture.
- You can substitute the chicken tenderloins with chicken breasts cut into strips if desired.
- Leftover Bang Bang sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- To keep fried chicken crispy before serving, place on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
