Name: Crispy Bang Bang Chicken That Will Wow Your Guests
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.); 1/4 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce; 1 tablespoon Sriracha Sauce (Adjust for spice preference.); 1 tablespoon Honey (Maple syrup is a vegan alternative.); 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins (Can be swapped with shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower.); 1 cup Buttermilk (Regular milk mixed with vinegar can be used.); 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free options.); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (Enhances crispiness.); 1 large Egg (Omit for vegan options or replace with flax egg.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Use fresh garlic for stronger taste.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Optional for extra heat.); 1 cup Plain Panko Breadcrumbs (Alternative: regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.); 2 cups Canola Oil (Substitute with vegetable or peanut oil.); 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (For garnish, optional.)

The sizzling sound of crispy chicken frying can evoke excitement in any kitchen, and when paired with the irresistible allure of a creamy sweet and spicy sauce, you know you’re in for a treat! Welcome to my take on Bang Bang Chicken, a dynamic fusion dish inspired by Sichuan cuisine, perfect for those tired of fast food and eager to whip up something homemade. This recipe is not just a crowd-pleaser; it’s also adaptable, allowing you to swap out chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower! It’s a thrilling way to impress guests or simply treat yourself to an uplifting meal any day of the week. So why not dive into the flavors and textures of this mouthwatering dish? Are you ready to bring some zing into your dinner routine?

Why Choose Bang Bang Chicken Tonight?

Crispy Perfection: Every bite features a delightful crunch, thanks to the panko breadcrumbs, making it a texture lover’s dream.

Flavor Explosion: The creamy sweet and spicy sauce elevates this dish, igniting your taste buds with each mouthful.

Customization Friendly: Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or tofu, this recipe is completely adaptable to suit your dietary needs.

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, also pairing well with sides like steamed jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at your next dinner party, and watch it vanish in seconds—everyone will be raving about your impressive culinary skills!

So, whether you’re a home chef or someone needing a break from fast food, this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a must-try!

Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients

For the Sauce

Mayonnaise – Adds a creamy base to the sauce; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Offers a unique sweetness and mild heat; mix honey with a dash of hot sauce to create a similar flavor.
Sriracha Sauce – Adds a spicy kick; adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
Honey – Sweetens the sauce; maple syrup works as a vegan alternative.

For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – The main protein in this dish, ensuring tenderness; can be swapped with shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower.
Buttermilk – Helps to tenderize the chicken; regular milk mixed with vinegar can be used instead.
All-Purpose Flour – Essential for a crispy coating; for gluten-free options, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
Cornstarch – Enhances the crispiness of your breading; no substitute needed.
Egg – Acts as a binder; can be omitted for vegan options or replaced with a flax egg.

For the Coating

Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor; you can use fresh garlic for a stronger taste.
Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper – Season the chicken; feel free to adjust spices to taste.
Plain Panko Breadcrumbs – Provides great crunch; regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used as alternatives.

For Frying

Canola Oil – Required for frying; vegetable or peanut oil can serve as substitutes.
Chopped Parsley – For garnish; optional but adds a pop of color and freshness.

Ready to whip up your Bang Bang Chicken and impress your family and friends? Let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk together until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Set this delicious Bang Bang sauce aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken; it will add that irresistible sweetness and spiciness that makes this dish so special.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, mix together the buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper for a kick. Add the boneless skinless chicken tenderloins and ensure they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for 10 minutes; this helps tenderize the chicken and infuses flavor before frying.

Step 3: Coat Chicken
After marinating, remove each chicken tenderloin, allowing the excess marinade to drip off. Dredge the chicken in plain panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere well. The crispy coating is key for your Bang Bang Chicken, giving it that satisfying crunch as it fries, so ensure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 4: Fry Chicken
In a large skillet, heat canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Carefully place the coated chicken tenderloins in the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for 2-3 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F; this ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.

Step 5: Drain and Toss
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried chicken tenders onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Once drained, place the tenders in a large bowl and pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over them. Toss the chicken gently until each piece is well-coated, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 6: Serve
To elevate your presentation, garnish the Bang Bang Chicken with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color. Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm, and enjoy this delightful dish alongside steamed jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken

Perfect Oil Temperature: Maintain the frying oil at 365°F; too low will result in soggy chicken, while too high can burn it.
Adjusting Spice Levels: For varying heat, modify the Sriracha in the sauce; you can always start with less and add more for your desired kick.
Healthy Alternatives: Consider air-frying or baking the chicken instead of deep-frying; it will still come out tasty and crispy without the added oil.
Double Coating for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier texture, try double-dipping the chicken in the marinade and breadcrumbs before frying.
Food Safety First: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Versatile Options: Remember, you can substitute chicken in the Bang Bang Chicken recipe with shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower for a delightful twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Bang Bang Chicken tenders are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to savor homemade flavor without the stress! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and the seasoning mixture up to 24 hours in advance to enhance flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can prepare the Bang Bang sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, maintaining its delicious blend of creamy sweetness and heat. When you’re ready to cook, simply coat the marinated chicken in panko breadcrumbs and fry until golden brown. Trust me, the results are just as delicious, making your weeknight meals a breeze without sacrificing taste!

Bang Bang Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your creative side with these fun options that will take your Bang Bang Chicken from ordinary to extraordinary!

Shrimp Surprise: Swap chicken for shrimp for a delightful seafood twist that cooks quickly and packs a flavorful punch.
Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken with firm tofu, marinated, and cooked to crispy perfection for a satisfying crunch.
Cauliflower Magic: Use bite-sized cauliflower florets for a veggie-packed treatment—perfect for plant-based diets and bursting with flavor.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko for a crispy coating everyone can enjoy.
Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by increasing the Sriracha in the sauce or adding diced jalapeños into the mix for a fiery flavor adventure.

For those of you yearning for more culinary adventures, why not pair this dish with my Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites or serve alongside a fresh Cucumber Salad? You won’t be disappointed!

Honey Swap: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option that maintains the sauce’s sweetness.
Zesty Citrus: Add a splash of lime juice to the sauce for a refreshing twist on flavor that brightens up every bite.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil instead of parsley for a fragrant and vibrant finish that enhances the dish’s appeal.

Let your kitchen creativity shine through these yummy variations, and enjoy the delightful journey of making Bang Bang Chicken uniquely yours!

What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Experience a delightful array of flavors with sides that enhance your crispy creation and entice your loved ones to the dinner table.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy, fragrant addition, this rice provides a perfect base to soak up the rich Bang Bang sauce.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad balances the dish’s richness with its crisp texture and mild flavor profile.
Sweet Potato Fries: Offering a sweet contrast to the savory chicken, these fries add a delightful crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
Sautéed Bok Choy: This lightly cooked green adds a subtle earthiness and crispness, complementing the bold bang bang sauce beautifully.
Garlic Noodles: Rich and indulgent, these noodles bring a comforting element that pairs wonderfully with the chicken’s spicy tones.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet ending, this dessert perfectly contrasts the savory meal while enhancing the Asian-inspired theme.
Chilled Green Tea: A refreshing drink to cool your palate, its subtle flavors harmonize well with the dish’s sweet and spicy notes.
Pineapple Salsa: Bright and tangy, this salsa adds a fruity punch that elevates each bite of your crispy chicken with a tropical twist.

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This preserves the flavor and moisture, allowing you to enjoy it again.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken again, reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as this can make it soggy.

Thawing: To defrost frozen chicken, place it in the fridge overnight before reheating. This will help maintain the taste and texture when fully cooked again.

Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to choose ripe chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken for Bang Bang Chicken, look for tenderloins that are pink and free from dark spots or an unpleasant smell. Fresh chicken should have a firm texture and be stored at a safe temperature. If you’re considering alternative proteins, shrimp should be firm and slightly translucent, while tofu should be fresh and not past its expiration date.

How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Very good question! Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps keep the chicken moist and prevents it from absorbing any odors. I recommend reheating it in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain its crispy texture, rather than microwaving, which can make it soggy.

Can I freeze my Bang Bang Chicken? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze Bang Bang Chicken, first, let it cool completely. Then, place the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer the pieces into an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if my chicken isn’t crispy enough after frying?
If your Bang Bang Chicken isn’t crispy, it might be due to the oil temperature being too low or not allowing enough time for frying. Make sure your oil is preheated to 365°F before adding the chicken, and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can reduce the temperature. If you want an extra crunch, consider double-coating the chicken by repeating the marinade and breadcrumb process before frying.

Are there any dietary considerations I need to be aware of for this recipe?
Definitely! If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, take extra care when selecting your ingredients. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re cooking for vegans or vegetarians, replace the chicken with tofu or cauliflower and omit the egg in the coating. Always check any store-bought sauces like mayonnaise or sweet chili sauce for allergens.