As the aroma of crispy chicken fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement. Today, we’re diving into the world of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Sweet and Spicy Sauce, a dish that’s sure to impress both friends and family. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to whip up, but it also offers a perfect blend of crunchy texture and hot, tangy flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re air frying for a healthier twist or opting for the classic deep-fried method, this dish caters to all preferences and cooking styles. Plus, it makes a fantastic appetizer for gatherings or a satisfying dinner option during busy weeknights. Ready to create something unforgettable? Let’s get started!
Why is Bang Bang Chicken a Must-Try?
Crispy texture: The panko crust on the chicken creates an irresistible crunch that’ll have your taste buds dancing.
Flavor explosion: With the sweet and spicy bang bang sauce, each bite is a delightful flavor adventure.
Versatile cooking methods: Whether you choose to air fry, bake, or deep fry, this recipe accommodates all cooking styles.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Quick prep: You’ll love how easy and fast it is to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights! For more delicious recipes, be sure to check out Healthy Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies and elevate your dinner game!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
• Get ready to unleash deliciousness with these simple ingredients that make our Crispy Bang Bang Chicken a star of your dining table!
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – provides creaminess; add more or less based on your preference.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – gives that signature sweet flavor; adjust its quantity for a sweeter or milder taste.
• Sriracha – adds the spicy kick; feel free to adjust for desired heat level.
• Honey – balances the spice with sweetness; substitute with agave for a vegan option.
For the Chicken
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – tender and juicy, making them quick to cook; chicken breasts can be used as an alternative.
• Buttermilk – infuses flavor and moisture; a dairy-free alternative can be made using lemon juice and plant milk.
• All-Purpose Flour – creates a crispy coating; swap with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Cornstarch – enhances the crunchiness; replace with more flour or rice flour if necessary.
• Egg – helps to bind everything together; use a flax egg for an egg-free option if needed.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – key to achieving that extra crispy texture; regular breadcrumbs can be substituted but may not yield the same lightness.
For Frying
• Canola Oil – ideal for frying to achieve a perfect golden brown; vegetable oil is a suitable alternative.
For Garnish
• Chopped Parsley – a sprinkle adds color and freshness; feel free to skip if you’re short on time.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating a finger-licking Crispy Bang Bang Chicken that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Sweet and Spicy Sauce
Step 1: Prepare Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of Thai sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons of Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Stir well until smooth and uniform in texture. Set this delectable sauce aside, as it will complement the crispy bang bang chicken beautifully once it’s cooked and ready to serve.
Step 2: Batter Preparation
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of buttermilk, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cornstarch, 1 beaten egg, and 1 tablespoon of Sriracha. Add ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, along with a pinch of salt and pepper, to enhance flavor. Mix until the batter is smooth and free of lumps, making sure it will beautifully coat your chicken tenderloins.
Step 3: Coat Chicken
Prepare a shallow plate with 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. Take each chicken tenderloin and dip it into the prepared batter, ensuring it’s well-coated. Next, dredge the batter-covered chicken in panko, pressing gently to help the crumbs stick. Set the coated chicken pieces aside on a clean plate, ready for frying, while the oil heats up.
Step 4: Heat Oil
In a large skillet, pour in enough canola oil for frying, about 1 inch deep, and heat it over medium-high heat. Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the oil temperature, aiming for 365°F. Wait until the oil shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for frying the chicken, ensuring a perfectly crispy exterior.
Step 5: Fry Chicken
Once the oil is at the ideal temperature, carefully add a few pieces of the coated chicken tenderloins to the skillet, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 2-3 minutes on each side, monitoring for a golden brown coloration. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe and delicious bites of crispy bang bang chicken.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, transfer the pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. In a large bowl, toss the hot chicken with the prepared bang bang sauce until each piece is nicely coated. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, serving the crispy bang bang chicken warm as a delightful appetizer or satisfying dinner option.
Storage Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Room Temperature: Enjoy your crispy bang bang chicken fresh for up to 2 hours after cooking. Beyond this, store leftovers in the fridge to maintain the best quality.
Fridge: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F to keep the outside crispy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze chicken in a freezer bag for up to 6 months. When ready to eat, allow it to thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F, which helps retain the crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the coating soggy.
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Sweet and Spicy Sauce
Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or an exciting gathering, the right sides can elevate your crispy dish to new heights of flavor and satisfaction.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken, its cool creaminess balances the heat beautifully.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, garlicky potatoes add a comforting element that pairs perfectly with the crunch of the chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and slightly crisp, steamed broccoli introduces a fresh, healthy crunch to your plate, making every bite more vibrant.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of these crispy fries complements the tangy bang bang sauce, creating a delicious flavor harmony.
- Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a crispness that cuts through the richness of the chicken, enhancing your meal without overshadowing it.
- White Rice: A simple, fluffy base that soaks up the delicious bang bang sauce, making each bite a delightful explosion of flavor.
- Zesty Lime Drink: A cool, citrusy beverage like limeade not only refreshes the palate but also beautifully complements the sweet and spicy notes of your dish.
Feel free to mix and match these pairings for a delightful and balanced meal experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Chicken pieces are ideal for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken coating, including the batter and panko breadcrumbs, up to 24 hours in advance; just store them separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Additionally, marinating the chicken in buttermilk can be done overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in tender and juicy bites. When you’re ready to cook, simply dredge the marinated chicken through the prepared batter and panko, fry until golden brown, and toss with your pre-made bang bang sauce. This way, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort!
Variations & Substitutions for Bang Bang Chicken
Feel free to tailor this delicious recipe to your personal tastes and dietary needs, creating your very own masterpiece!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs to enjoy a crispy texture without the gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a dairy-free option, like almond milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice.
- Spicy Variation: Amp up the heat with additional Sriracha in both the batter and the bang bang sauce.
- Air Fryer: For a healthier twist, air fry your chicken at 400°F for 10 minutes for a guilt-free crunch.
- Protein Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp, fish, or even tofu for a delicious twist that caters to various diets.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or cilantro to your batter for an aromatic lift—perfect for a fresh flavor forward.
- Bang Bang Shrimp: Follow the same steps using shrimp instead of chicken for a delightful seafood version.
- Baked Version: Bake in the oven at 425°F for 20 minutes for a lower-fat option while still keeping it delicious.
With these variations, you can enjoy an array of flavors while keeping it fresh! For more tasty inspirations, don’t miss out on the delightful Ube Mochi Cake or indulge in the classic Coconut Dream Cake.
Expert Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
- Oil Temperature: Keep your oil at 365°F for ultimate crispiness. A thermometer ensures the perfect frying environment, avoiding soggy chicken.
- Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding in the pan. This helps maintain the ideal temperature and ensures each piece gets golden brown and crispy.
- Air Fryer Alternative: For a healthier twist, air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes! Just spray with cooking oil and flip halfway to achieve that desired crispy texture without the extra oil.
- Flavor Tweaks: Personalize your bang bang sauce by adjusting Sriracha for spice or adding a twist with garlic or lime juice for an enhanced flavor profile.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for 10 minutes to keep them crispy. Enjoy your delicious Crispy Bang Bang Chicken!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken tenderloins?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken tenderloins, look for pieces that are pale pink and free from any dark spots or discoloration. Fresh tenderloins should feel moist but not slimy, indicating they are at their best. If you can’t find tenderloins, chicken breasts can be a good substitute, but remember they may take a bit longer to cook.
What’s the best way to store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
You’ll want to store your crispy Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it should stay fresh for up to 5 days. If you’re planning to keep it longer, freeze the chicken in a freezer bag, ensuring you squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. In the freezer, it will maintain its quality for up to 6 months!
Can I freeze or reheat Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, place the cooked pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet until they’re solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F and arrange the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, until hot and crispy again. This method preserves that delightful crunch!
What should I do if my chicken is soggy after frying?
Very! If your crispy Bang Bang Chicken turns out soggy, it likely means the oil was not hot enough while frying or the chicken was crowded in the pan. Ensure your oil reaches 365°F before adding chicken and fry in small batches. If the chicken is already cooked, place it on a wire rack for a few minutes in a 200°F oven to help crisp it up.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! To make this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute regular all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. For a crispy coating, use gluten-free panko, which is available in most grocery stores. Enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of this crowd-pleaser without sacrificing flavor or texture!
Are there any dietary considerations I should think about?
Absolutely! If you have allergies, be mindful of the ingredients in both the chicken batter and the bang bang sauce, particularly the eggs, mayo, and Sriracha. If you prefer a vegan option, use a flax egg for binding and a vegan mayo for the sauce. Also, skipping the sauce is a simple way to accommodate various dietary preferences. Enjoy this dish safely with your loved ones!
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Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until smooth. Set aside.
- Batter Preparation: In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, beaten egg, and Sriracha. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mixing until smooth.
- Coat Chicken: Dip chicken tenderloins in the batter, then dredge in panko breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.
- Heat Oil: In a skillet, heat canola oil over medium-high until it reaches 365°F.
- Fry Chicken: Fry chicken until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Ensure internal temperature is 165°F.
- Drain and Serve: Place cooked chicken on a paper towel-lined plate, then toss in the bang bang sauce. Garnish and serve warm.
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