Bang Bang Chicken

Name: Bang Bang Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 cup buttermilk (for marinade); 1 cup cornstarch; 1 cup oil (for frying)

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By: Maria
Posted: 01/05/2025

Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy, flavorful dish tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that’s utterly addictive. Perfect for an Appetizer or a main course, this recipe is inspired by the popular restaurant version but made better at home! Whether served over rice or alongside fresh veggies, it’s guaranteed to please a crowd.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup (100 g) panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce

1/2 cup (120 g) mayonnaise
1/4 cup (60 g) sweet chili sauce
2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp honey (optional)
1 tsp lime juice

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for panko breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken piece in the flour, then the beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Place the breaded chicken pieces on a plate.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and lime juice until smooth.

Step 5: Toss the Chicken

Place the fried chicken in a large bowl and pour the sauce over it. Toss gently to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro. Pair with steamed rice, lettuce wraps, or a fresh side salad.

Notes

For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or cook it in an air fryer.
Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less sriracha to the sauce.
This dish can also be made with shrimp for a tasty variation!

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken delivers bold, crave-worthy flavors in every bite. With its crispy texture and spicy-sweet sauce, it’s a dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a go-to favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time, and how should I store it?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Bread the chicken, but do not fry it. Store the breaded chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Fry the chicken just before serving. The sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Toss the fried chicken in the sauce just before serving to maintain crispiness. Leftover sauced chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but the chicken may lose some of its crispiness.

What are some good substitutions for ingredients in the Bang Bang Sauce?

If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, you can substitute a mixture of equal parts honey and sriracha, or use a store-bought chili garlic sauce. For a less spicy sauce, reduce the sriracha to taste or omit it entirely. If you don’t have honey, you can use an equal amount of granulated sugar or maple syrup. Lime juice can be substituted with lemon juice, but the flavor will be slightly different.

How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked and crispy?

The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Visually, the chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. The texture should be firm to the touch, and when cut into, the inside should be white and opaque, with no pink remaining. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the correct temperature.

Can I double or scale up this Bang Bang Chicken recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can easily double or scale up this recipe. When doubling, you may need to fry the chicken in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet and ensure even cooking. You might also need to use a larger bowl for tossing the chicken with the sauce. Adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the quantity of chicken, but keep a close eye on it to prevent overcooking.

What are the nutritional highlights of this Bang Bang Chicken recipe?

This recipe provides a good source of protein from the chicken. The panko breadcrumbs add some fiber, and the sauce provides healthy fats from the mayonnaise (choose a light mayonnaise for a healthier option). Lime juice offers Vitamin C, and the dish can be served with rice and vegetables for a more balanced meal, adding carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Remember that the nutritional value can vary depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes.