Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances crispiness and flavor. This recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner, game day, or a fun family gathering. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, it appeals to both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha creates a deliciously bold taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy Bang Bang Chicken as an appetizer, main dish, or even in wraps and salads.
• Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs give the chicken a satisfying crunch that everyone will love.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the Sriracha and cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Bang Bang Chicken, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Thermometer (optional)
• Tongs
• Plate for panko

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet is essential for frying the chicken evenly and achieving that perfect golden brown color.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two mixing bowls for preparing the sauce and batter.
• Tongs: These are great for flipping the chicken without losing any breading.
• Thermometer: Ensures your oil is at the right temperature for frying, leading to crispy chicken without excess grease.

Ingredients

Bang Bang Chicken. It’s like the cooler, crunchier cousin of that Bang Bang Shrimp we all know and love.

For the Sauce

• 1 cup mayonnaise (the real deal, please)
• 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more if you’re feeling spicy)
• 2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken Coating

• 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenderloins (or chicken breast cut into strips if you’re fancy)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, but recommended)

For Frying

• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Canola oil for frying (enough to make your chicken swim)

For Garnish

• Chopped parsley for garnish (because we’re fancy like that)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine mayo, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Mix well until smooth. Set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Create the Batter

In another medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Toss your chicken tenderloins in this batter mixture until fully coated. Ensure each piece is happy with its coating!

Step 4: Panko Time

Spread panko breadcrumbs on a plate. Take each battered chicken piece one by one; shake off excess batter before rolling it in panko. Press gently so it sticks well.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat about an inch of canola oil to 365°F. Use a thermometer if you have one to ensure accurate frying temperatures.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken

Fry the chicken in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Once cooked through, drain on paper towels briefly before transferring them to a serving plate.

Step 8: Drizzle with Sauce

Generously drizzle your prepared Bang Bang sauce over the fried chicken.

Step 9: Garnish and Enjoy

Sprinkle with chopped parsley for an elegant touch before diving in while hot!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Pair with a side of jasmine rice for a satisfying and filling meal.
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad to add crunch and balance.

In Wraps

• Use lettuce leaves to make fresh wraps filled with Bang Bang Chicken and your favorite veggies for a light bite.
• Spread some sauce on tortillas, add the chicken, and roll them up for easy-to-eat wraps.

As an Appetizer

• Serve bite-sized pieces as appetizers at parties; they’re perfect for dipping!
• Accompany with toothpicks for easy handling during gatherings.

Topped on Salads

• Toss shredded Bang Bang Chicken over mixed greens for a flavorful salad.
• Add cucumbers and cherry tomatoes for extra freshness and color.

With Dipping Sauce

• Always have extra bang bang sauce on the side for dipping.
• Consider pairing with additional sauces like ranch or blue cheese for variety.

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

To achieve the ultimate flavor and texture in your Bang Bang Chicken, follow these essential tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality sauces enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t rush the marinating: Allowing the chicken to sit in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes helps tenderize it.
• Heat oil properly: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; this creates a crispy crust without absorbing too much oil.
• Fry in batches: Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking; fry in smaller batches for best results.
• Let it drain: Allow fried chicken to rest on paper towels briefly to remove excess oil before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken

Complement your delicious Bang Bang Chicken with these tasty side dishes. Each option brings its own unique flavor that pairs well with this dish.

1. Garlic Fried Rice: Fluffy rice sautéed with garlic makes an excellent base for your chicken.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds freshness and crunch next to the crispy chicken.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering the meal.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet, crispy fries offer a fun contrast to the spicy chicken.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is a classic side that complements any main dish beautifully.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a cool break from the spiciness of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Marinade: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk is crucial for tenderness. Don’t rush this step; let it soak for at least 30 minutes if you can.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or buttermilk can lead to uneven batter consistency. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many chicken pieces at once lowers the oil temperature and affects crispiness. Fry in small batches instead.
• Not Prepping the Sauce: Preparing your bang bang sauce ahead of time is essential. It enhances flavor and allows you to focus on frying the chicken without distractions.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Failing to check that your chicken reaches 165°F could mean undercooked meat. Always use a thermometer for food safety.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken

• For longer storage, place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date!

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware this may soften the coating.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy fried chicken dish coated in a spicy, creamy sauce made from mayonnaise and Thai sweet chili sauce.

How can I make my Bang Bang Chicken spicier?

To increase the heat, simply add more Sriracha or cayenne pepper to the batter and sauce according to your taste preference.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips instead of tenderloins. Just ensure they are evenly sized for even cooking.

How do I make Bang Bang Chicken in an air fryer?

For air fryer Bang Bang Chicken, follow the same breading process but cook at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate and bread your chicken ahead of time. Cook it just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken offers a delightful combination of crunch and flavor that makes it perfect for any dinner table. Its versatility allows for easy customization; you can adjust spice levels or even try different dipping sauces. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a go—your taste buds will thank you!