Bang Bang Chicken: A Flavor Explosion

What’s more exciting than crispy, succulent chicken coated with a creamy, spicy sauce? Bang Bang Chicken brings a vibrant twist to any dinner table, elevating your meal with its luscious flavors and delightful crunch. I first stumbled upon this dish at a local Asian fusion restaurant, and I couldn’t resist trying to replicate it at home—trust me, the results were worth every bite! This dish is not just a crowd-pleaser; it’s a staple for family gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, and everything in between. Each piece of tender chicken is enveloped in the unforgettable bang bang sauce, balancing sweetness and spice in the most delicious way.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Bang Bang Chicken is an irresistible combination of crispy fried chicken and a zesty, creamy sauce that can brighten up any meal. While it may sound gourmet, it’s surprisingly simple to whip up in the comfort of your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight dinner option or planning a gathering to impress friends, this recipe checks all the boxes: it’s quick, budget-friendly, and, best of all, kid-approved!

“I made Bang Bang Chicken for my family last weekend, and it was a hit! The sauce is deliciously addictive, and everyone begged for seconds!” – Emma R.

Preparing Bang Bang Chicken

The Cooking Process Explained

Creating Bang Bang Chicken is a satisfying endeavor with straightforward steps. You’ll start by marinating the chicken in buttermilk for juicy tenderness. Next, coat it in a crispy mixture of flour and cornstarch before frying it to perfection. The crowning glory is the homemade bang bang sauce, which ties everything together. If you’re all about minimal fuss, you’ll love how this recipe allows you to shine in the kitchen without spending hours cooking.

What You’ll Need

Gather these items for your Bang Bang Chicken adventure:

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)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups (216 g) plain panko breadcrumbs
- Canola oil (for frying)
For the bang bang sauce:
- 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
- ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (for drizzling)
For garnish:
- Chopped parsley

Feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have handy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

How to Prepare It

Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins and buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for a deeper flavor.
Prepare the dry mix: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
Beat the egg: In another small bowl, beat the egg.
Coat the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade. Dip each piece first into the egg, then dredge in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Follow with a layer of panko breadcrumbs.
Fry the chicken: Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in batches (avoid overcrowding). Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Make the sauce: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. Adjust Sriracha according to your taste for heat.
Drizzle or toss: Once the chicken is cooked, you can either drizzle the sauce over the top or toss it with the chicken for an even coating.
Garnish and serve: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving Suggestions

Bang Bang Chicken shines best when served hot, with its crispy exterior and creamy sauce still intact! Consider pairing it with:

Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to soak up the extra sauce.
Crisp salad greens for a refreshing contrast.
Sweet potato fries or regular fries for a satisfying crunch.
A drizzle of extra bang bang sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for additional flavor.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Bang Bang Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you find yourself with extras, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn. When reheating, consider using the oven to retain the crispiness or a microwave for quick meals, though the latter may lose some crunch.

Tips for Success

Helpful Cooking Tips

Marinating is key: Allowing the chicken to soak in buttermilk makes it incredibly tender and flavorful.
Fry in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Experiment with heat: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce based on your spice tolerance, or add more for an extra kick.

Creative Twists

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few creative twists on the classic Bang Bang Chicken:

Swap proteins: Try shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different take.
Flavor boosts: Add lime juice to the sauce for a zesty flare or sesame oil for a nutty undertone.
Crispy veggies: Toss in some vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a crispy, colorful addition.

Your Questions Answered

Common Questions

How long does it take to prepare Bang Bang Chicken?
The total time is about 1.5 hours, including marination time, but the active cooking time will only take about 30 minutes.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Is it possible to make Bang Bang Chicken in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for a healthier option.

With its bold flavors and satisfying textures, Bang Bang Chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a delightful culinary adventure waiting to be shared! So why not bring it to your kitchen today?