In the bustling world of home cooking, nothing says “I’m a culinary hero” quite like the first crunch of crispy chicken. Let me share my secret weapon: Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Sweet and Spicy Sauce. This delightful dish combines tender, panko-crusted chicken tenderloins, which are easily prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a trusty go-to for a satisfying dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. With its harmonious blend of sweetness and spice, it brings a fun twist to your dinner table, proving that homemade meals can be both quick and exciting. So, are you ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this irresistible recipe?
Why is This Bang Bang Chicken Irresistible?
Simplicity: With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll master this dish in no time.
Crispy Perfection: The panko coating gives you that satisfying crunch, whether you fry or air-fry.
Sweet and Spicy Balance: The homemade sauce perfectly marries honey’s sweetness with Sriracha’s kick, appealing to every palate.
Versatility: Don’t just stop at chicken; try Bang Bang Shrimp or Salmon for delightful variations!
Quick Meal: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s your new go-to for busy weeknights or entertaining guests with elegance.
Crowd Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, making it a favorite at dinner parties or casual get-togethers. Dive into the world of flavor with other delicious options like Thai Basil Chicken for a complete culinary experience!
Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
• Create the perfect balance of flavors and textures with these essential ingredients!
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Base for bang bang sauce; consider using low-fat or vegan mayo for a lighter option.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a delightful sweetness; you can substitute with homemade if you prefer.
- Sriracha – Provides that essential spicy kick; adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
- Honey – Sweetens the sauce; for a vegan alternative, maple syrup works beautifully.
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – The heart of dish; substitute with chicken breasts cut into strips, though it might alter texture.
- Buttermilk – Helps tenderize the chicken; mix milk with vinegar or use a lactose-free alternative as a substitute.
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential for coating; gluten-free flour is a great alternative.
- Cornstarch – Contributes to crispy texture; can be adjusted or replaced with more flour if needed.
- Egg – Binds the coating together; use a flax egg or other alternatives for a vegan option.
- Garlic Powder, Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper – A blend of seasonings for flavor; feel free to use fresh garlic and modify spice levels to taste.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Gives that delightful crunch; regular breadcrumbs can be used, but won’t yield the same texture.
For Cooking
- Canola Oil – Ideal for frying; olive oil is a good choice for air frying.
- Chopped Parsley – For garnish and a pop of color; substitute with green onions or omit if desired.
Enjoy crafting your Bang Bang Chicken – it’s sure to be a hit!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Sweet and Spicy Sauce
Step 1: Make Bang Bang Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon of Sriracha, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Mix until the ingredients are well-combined and the sauce is smooth. Set the bowl aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken, creating a perfect savory complement to your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
Step 2: Prep Chicken Coating
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cornstarch, 1 beaten egg, and an additional teaspoon of Sriracha along with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk the mixture until it’s fully integrated, making a thick batter that will adhere wonderfully to the chicken tenderloins. This will ensure your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken has a flavorful base.
Step 3: Coat Chicken
Take each boneless, skinless chicken tenderloin and dip it into the prepared batter, allowing excess batter to drip off. Then, dredge the coated tenderloin in 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs stick well. Set the coated chicken on a plate, making sure each piece is fully covered for that golden crunch, perfect for your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
Step 4: Fry Chicken
Heat about ½ inch of canola oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Carefully add the coated chicken tenderloins in batches, frying them for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn a beautiful golden-brown and are fully cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F. This frying process will lend that irresistible crunch essential to Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Next, toss the crispy chicken pieces in the prepared bang bang sauce until evenly coated. For an appealing presentation, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm, ready to wow your family and friends with your delightful Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
Bang Bang Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own by exploring these delicious alternatives!
- Bang Bang Shrimp: Swap chicken for shrimp, coating and cooking them the same way for a seafood twist.
- Bang Bang Salmon: Use salmon fillets instead of chicken; the flavorful sauce pairs beautifully with fish.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a mix of almond milk and vinegar; it maintains moisture without dairy.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko and flour to create a crispy texture without the gluten.
- Spicy Boost: Add more Sriracha or a few crushed red pepper flakes to the coating for an extra kick.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or basil with the panko for a flavor explosion.
- Oven-Baked: For a lighter option, bake the coated chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until crispy.
- Sauce Alternatives: Experiment with different sauces, like a creamy garlic dressing or teriyaki, for a unique dip.
Whether you’re swapping ingredients or trying out new flavors, each variation is sure to elevate your meal experience. For more inspiration, don’t forget to check out the tempting Sweet Chili Chicken or even the flavorful Sticky Chicken Bowls!
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Sweet and Spicy Sauce
Dive into a delightful meal experience that balances vibrant flavors and textures in every bite.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice soaks up the spicy sauce, creating the perfect base for your chicken. Its aromatic essence warms the soul and rounds out the meal beautifully.
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Fresh Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crisp rolls filled with crunchy vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, crispy chicken. Served with a light dipping sauce, they’re a fantastic appetizer!
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Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with a hint of garlic offer a deliciously vibrant side. Their snap adds texture, balancing the meal while complementing the spicy notes of the chicken.
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Coconut Curry Soup: A warming bowl of coconut curry soup, light yet rich, pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken. The creaminess and gentle spice elevate the overall dining experience, transporting you to an exotic paradise.
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Asian Noodle Salad: A light, tangy noodle salad with sesame dressing brings freshness to your plate. Its colorful veggies and chewy noodles add a playful texture alongside the chicken’s crunch.
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Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: Enhance the meal with extra sweetness by serving this sauce on the side. Drizzling it over the chicken provides a delightful explosion of flavor that guests will adore!
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this classic Thai treat combines sweet coconut milk, sticky rice, and ripe mango. It offers a creamy, sweet ending to your meal, creating a satisfying culinary journey.
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Iced Green Tea: Refresh yourself with a chilled cup of iced green tea. Its lightness and slight bitterness create a harmonious balance against the richness of the crispy chicken and the spicy sauce.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Crispy Bang Bang Chicken can be a breeze for busy home cooks! You can marinate the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk and spices up to 24 hours in advance, which not only enhances flavor but also keeps them juicy. The bang bang sauce can be mixed and refrigerated for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the prepped chicken in the batter and panko breadcrumbs, then fry or air fry them until golden. This way, you’ll enjoy a home-cooked meal that’s just as delicious, saving you valuable time during your busy week!
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh while maintaining flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled chicken in a freezer bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. It can be frozen for up to 6 months without losing quality.
Reheating: To revive the crispy texture, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5-8 minutes. This method is ideal to enjoy the crunchy coating of your Bang Bang Chicken again.
Sauce Storage: Keep the bang bang sauce in a separate container in the fridge for up to a week, allowing you to enjoy it with other dishes as well!
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken
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Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at 365°F before frying to achieve that irresistible crispy texture. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
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Batch Cooking: Fry the chicken tenderloins in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to soggy results instead of perfectly crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
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Panko Perfection: Press the panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken after coating to ensure they adhere well, giving you that delightful crunch you crave.
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Sauce Timing: Toss the chicken with the bang bang sauce just before serving; this keeps the crispy coating intact while enjoying the sweet and spicy flavors.
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Add Variations: Experiment with substituting shrimp or salmon if you’re looking for a different twist; the cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly.
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Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, store the chicken and sauce separately to keep the crispiness intact. Reheat the chicken in an air fryer for best results.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Sweet and Spicy Sauce Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select chicken tenderloins for this recipe?
When choosing chicken tenderloins, look for ones that are firm and pale pink without any dark spots or significant bruising. Freshness is key, so opt for organic or free-range chicken when possible for better flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps keep it flavorful while maintaining the quality. When ready to enjoy, you can reheat it in the oven or air fryer to restore its crispy texture.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken? If yes, how?
Absolutely! For longer storage, let the chicken cool completely, then place the pieces in a freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Bang Bang Chicken can be frozen for up to 6 months. To reheat, simply bake or air fry at 350°F for about 5-8 minutes.
What can I do if my batter isn’t sticking to the chicken?
If you find that the batter isn’t adhering properly, make sure to shake off any excess buttermilk before dipping the chicken in the batter. Additionally, pressing the panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the coated chicken can help create a better bond, leading to a crunchier result.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! For those with allergies, be mindful of the use of wheat flour and eggs in the batter. You can effectively substitute these with a gluten-free flour blend and a flax egg for a vegan option. Furthermore, for spiciness, adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your preference or dietary restrictions. Always check sauce labels for potential allergens as well.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the bang bang sauce?
Very! You can easily customize the sauce to suit your taste. If you love heat, increase the Sriracha, or try adding more honey for a sweeter balance. Conversely, to tone down the spice, reduce the Sriracha or replace it with a milder hot sauce. Blending in a touch of garlic powder can also add flavor without raising the spice level.
Enjoy crafting this delightful recipe and creating your very own crispy masterpiece!
Savor Thai Basil Chicken with Zesty Garlic Kick
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, beaten egg, additional Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Whisk until fully integrated.
- Dip each chicken tenderloin into the batter, letting excess drip off, then dredge in panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat canola oil in a deep skillet until it reaches 365°F. Fry chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden-brown and cooked through.
- Transfer chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Toss in the bang bang sauce before serving and garnish with chopped parsley.
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