Bang Bang Chicken is a flavorful and spicy dish that features crispy chicken coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. Inspired by a popular restaurant favorite, this dish is easy to make at home and is perfect for dinner or as an appetizer. The combination of crispy chicken, tangy mayonnaise, and a touch of heat from sriracha makes this dish utterly irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to treat yourself, Bang Bang Chicken is sure to impress.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for added sweetness)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the buttermilk. Let it marinate for at least 20-30 minutes. This will help tenderize the chicken.
- Mix the Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture until they are well coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey (if using) until smooth and creamy.
Combine and Serve
- Toss the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the fried chicken pieces with the Bang Bang sauce until they are evenly coated.
- Serve: Transfer the Bang Bang Chicken to a serving plate and garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken
- Use Buttermilk for Tender Chicken: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps to tenderize it and adds extra flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches to ensure it stays crispy and cooks evenly.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Add more or less sriracha to the sauce depending on your spice preference.
Recipe Variations
- Baked Bang Bang Chicken: Instead of frying, bake the coated chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
- Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken: Cook the coated chicken pieces in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Bang Bang Shrimp: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood version of this dish. Follow the same steps for coating and frying.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before using.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
A: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version of the sauce, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve Bang Bang Chicken over steamed white or jasmine rice for a complete meal.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
- As an Appetizer: Serve as a party appetizer with toothpicks for easy eating.
Bang Bang Chicken is a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender fried chicken and the creamy, spicy sauce makes it absolutely addictive. Whether you’re making it for dinner or as a fun appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Give this easy and tasty recipe a try, and enjoy the bold flavors in every bite!
This dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you bake, fry, or use an air fryer, Bang Bang Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Share it with loved ones and watch it disappear in no time!
