Bang Bang Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce that truly packs a punch. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress their friends and family with a delicious homemade dish that is both satisfying and incredibly flavorful.

Why Make This Recipe

This delightful recipe strikes the perfect balance between crunch and creaminess, making it an instant favorite for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The unique blend of spices and dipping sauce elevates the dish, ensuring that each bite is full of flavor. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it can also easily be doubled for larger crowds, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Ingredients

1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
2 tablespoons honey
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)
Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Mix well until smooth and set aside.
Marinate the Chicken: In a separate bowl, soak the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, allowing them to become tender and flavorful.
Prepare the Coating: In three shallow dishes, set up a breading station. In the first dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In the second dish, beat the egg and Sriracha together. In the third dish, add the panko breadcrumbs.
Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, followed by the egg mixture, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Repeat until all chicken is breaded.
Fry the Chicken: Heat canola oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve: Drizzle the Bang Bang Sauce over the crispy chicken or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley for an added pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is best served hot and fresh, drizzled with the delectable Bang Bang Sauce. Pair it with steamed rice or a light salad for a complete meal. It can also be served as an appetizer at parties, where guests can enjoy dipping the crispy chicken into the spicy sauce.

How to Store

Leftover Bang Bang Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain its crunchy texture.

Tips to Make

Make sure the oil is adequately heated before frying; this will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of Sriracha in the sauce or directly in the breading mixture.
For an extra crunch, consider using a mix of panko and crushed cornflakes for the coating.

Variation

For a healthier twist, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Additionally, you can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just cut them into strips about the same size as tenderloins to ensure even cooking.

2. What if I don’t have Thai sweet chili sauce?
You can make a simple substitute by blending equal parts of hot sauce and honey, or look for similar sauces at your local grocery store.

3. Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Yes! You can freeze the breaded, uncooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it completely before frying to ensure even cooking.