If you’ve been craving something crispy, saucy, and downright irresistible, you’re in for a treat. This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is all that and more—a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance! Imagine golden, crunchy chicken tenders tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. It’s restaurant-worthy but so simple you can whip it up at home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you a little secret—this recipe has been my go-to for impressing friends and family. It’s versatile enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to wow at a party. The best part? It’s easier to make than you think. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started!
Let’s Make That Bang Bang Sauce
First things first—let’s talk sauce. The Bang Bang Sauce is what makes this dish a true standout. Creamy, sweet, with just the right kick of heat, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to put on everything (seriously, fries, veggies, you name it!).
Ingredients for the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise: The base for that rich creaminess.
- ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness with a hint of tang.
- 1 tsp Sriracha: For a spicy kick (or more if you’re feeling bold!).
- 2 tbsp honey: Balances out the heat with natural sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients.
- Stir until everything is smooth and well-blended. Pro tip: Taste as you go—you can always adjust the Sriracha for more heat or the honey for added sweetness.
- Set the sauce aside and let the flavors mingle while you prep the chicken.
Marinating the Chicken
The secret to tender, flavorful chicken? A good marinade! This step infuses every bite with bold seasoning while keeping the meat juicy.
Ingredients for the Marinade
- 1 ½ lbs chicken tenderloins: These cook quickly and stay tender.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Softens the chicken and adds a slight tang.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour and ½ cup cornstarch: For a perfectly crisp coating.
- 1 large egg: Helps everything bind together.
- 1 tbsp Sriracha: A little extra heat for the marinade.
- ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp kosher salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional): Your flavor boosters.
Marinating Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
- Add the chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are completely submerged in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Pro tip: If you have extra time, let the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours for even more flavor!
Pro Tip: Prep Your Workspace
While the chicken marinates, set up your breading station and prep your frying area. Trust me, this little bit of organization will make the process seamless. Gather your panko breadcrumbs, a clean plate for the breaded chicken, and your skillet or fryer.
Now that your chicken is marinated and ready, it’s time to take things to the next level: breading and frying. This step is where the magic happens—the crispy coating is what makes Bang Bang Chicken so irresistible. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Breading the Chicken
The key to achieving that signature crunch lies in the panko breadcrumbs. These light, airy crumbs deliver a crispy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy Bang Bang Sauce.
Ingredients for Breading
- 2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs: The star of the coating.
- A pinch of patience: This part requires some love, but it’s worth it!
Breading Instructions
- Place the panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate or tray. Pro tip: If you want extra flavor, mix in a pinch of garlic powder or paprika with the breadcrumbs.
- Remove each chicken tender from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off.
- Roll the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a thorough, even coating. Tip: Give each piece a little pat to make sure those crumbs stick!
- Place the breaded chicken on a clean plate and repeat until all the tenders are coated. It’s starting to look good already, isn’t it?
Step 2: Frying the Chicken
Here comes the fun part—frying! This step gives the chicken that golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
What You’ll Need
- Canola oil: Enough to fill your skillet about an inch deep.
- A large skillet: Cast iron works wonderfully for even heat distribution.
- A kitchen thermometer: Optional but helpful to ensure your oil reaches the perfect frying temperature.
Frying Instructions
- Pour canola oil into your skillet, filling it about an inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F (185°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil—it should sizzle immediately.
- Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil in batches. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature and affect the crispiness.
- Fry each piece for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use tongs to flip the chicken gently to avoid splattering.
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Pro Tips for Frying Success
- Keep it consistent: Maintain the oil temperature by adjusting the heat between batches.
- Don’t rush: Let the chicken cook fully on one side before flipping to avoid losing that perfect breading.
- Stay safe: Use long-handled tongs to keep your hands away from the hot oil.
Step 3: Tossing with Bang Bang Sauce
Here’s where it all comes together. Tossing the freshly fried chicken with the luscious Bang Bang Sauce takes the flavor up a notch!
Tossing Instructions
- Place the hot, crispy chicken in a large bowl.
- Pour the prepared Bang Bang Sauce over the chicken. Use just enough to coat the pieces evenly—don’t drown them (save some sauce for dipping, too!).
- Gently toss the chicken until every piece is coated in that creamy, spicy goodness.
Step 4: Plating and Garnishing
Presentation is everything, right? Let’s make your Bang Bang Chicken look as good as it tastes.
- Transfer the sauced chicken to a serving plate.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is still hot and crispy. Don’t forget to set aside extra Bang Bang Sauce on the side—it’s perfect for dipping!
A Quick Variation
If frying isn’t your style, you can bake or air-fry the chicken instead. Simply spray the breaded tenders with cooking oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. For air frying, cook at the same temperature for 12-15 minutes.
You’ve just mastered the art of making Bang Bang Chicken, but if you have a few lingering questions or want some additional tips, you’re in the right place. Let’s address some of the most common queries to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make Bang Bang Chicken in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken up to the breading step and refrigerate it for a few hours. When you’re ready to serve, fry or bake the chicken fresh for the best texture. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. What can I use as a substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, and it’s good to go!
3. Can I use a different type of meat?
Of course! This recipe works beautifully with shrimp, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for seafood, which cooks much faster.
4. How do I keep the chicken crispy after frying?
To maintain that irresistible crunch, place the fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents the bottom from getting soggy. If you’re not serving immediately, keep the chicken warm in a low oven (around 200°F/95°C).
5. Is there a way to make the sauce spicier?
For extra heat, simply increase the amount of Sriracha in the sauce. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for an additional kick.
6. What sides go well with Bang Bang Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of creamy coleslaw or garlic bread.
7. Can I air-fry the chicken instead of deep-frying?
Yes! Air frying is a healthier alternative and still delivers great results. Simply coat the breaded chicken with a light spray of cooking oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion: Bring the Bang to Your Table
There you have it—Bang Bang Chicken that’s crispy, saucy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a main course, or a party dish, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. The creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang Sauce ties everything together in the most delightful way, leaving everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!).
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Bang Bang Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
A delightful, crispy chicken dish coated in a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy Bang Bang sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more. Perfect for appetizers, game-day snacks, or a fun dinner.
Ingredients
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
- ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp Sriracha (or more to taste)
- 2 tbsp honey
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup (245 g) buttermilk
- ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (64 g) cornstarch
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tbsp Sriracha
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs (plain)
- Canola oil, for frying
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
Mix well and set aside for serving.
2️⃣ Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Add the chicken tenderloins and toss to coat evenly.
3️⃣ Bread the Chicken:
Place panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate.
Remove each chicken tender from the batter, shaking off excess, and dredge it in the panko. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Repeat for all chicken pieces, setting them aside on a clean plate.
4️⃣ Fry the Chicken:
Heat about 1 inch of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F (185°C).
Fry chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each piece for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Drain fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate.
5️⃣ Assemble and Serve:
Toss the hot chicken with the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep-frying.
- Adjust the spice level of the sauce by adding more or less Sriracha to your preference.
- Best served warm for maximum crispiness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
