Food has a way of bringing people together, weaving memories into every bite. For me, Bang Bang Chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of laughter-filled gatherings, late-night kitchen experiments, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
I still remember the first time I made Bang Bang Chicken. It was a last-minute dinner idea for a small get-together with friends, and I was looking for something bold yet simple. I had heard of Bang Bang Shrimp, a popular dish with a sweet and spicy sauce, and wondered, “Why not try it with chicken?” I had all the ingredients on hand, so I decided to give it a shot.
As I dipped each piece of chicken into the batter, coated it in crispy panko, and watched it sizzle in the hot oil, my kitchen was filled with an irresistible aroma. When I finally drizzled the sauce over the golden-brown tenders and took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The crunch, the heat, the sweetness—it was the perfect combination. That night, my friends devoured every piece, and Bang Bang Chicken quickly became a staple in my home.
Now, I’m excited to share this dish with you. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a game-day snack, or a special occasion, this recipe promises to be a showstopper. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Bang Bang Chicken, from its origins to storage tips and frequently asked questions.
The Magic Behind Bang Bang Chicken
Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that combines crispy, golden-fried chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce that has just the right balance of heat and sweetness. The secret lies in the Bang Bang Sauce, a mixture of mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha. This sauce coats the crunchy chicken, elevating its flavor and creating a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
Unlike traditional fried chicken, which is often paired with a heavier gravy or hot sauce, Bang Bang Chicken offers a unique fusion of Asian-inspired flavors with a hint of Southern-style crispiness. The use of panko breadcrumbs ensures a light, airy crunch that holds up well against the sauce, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy and Flavorful – The contrast of crunchy chicken and velvety sauce is irresistible.
✔ Easy to Make – No complicated techniques, just simple ingredients with incredible results.
✔ Versatile Cooking Methods – Can be fried, air-fried, or baked.
✔ Great for Any Occasion – Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or even a party snack.
✔ Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice to your preference with more or less Sriracha.
Ingredients
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 cup (232g) mayonnaise
- ½ cup (132g) Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup (245g) buttermilk
- ¾ cup (94g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (64g) cornstarch
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups (216g) panko breadcrumbs (plain)
- Canola oil (for frying)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir well and set aside.
2. Coat the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, combine buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth. Add chicken tenders and toss to coat.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Place panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. One by one, remove chicken pieces from the batter, shake off excess, and coat them in panko, pressing slightly to adhere. Set aside.
4. Fry to Perfection:
In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Fry chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Assemble and Serve:
Toss the crispy chicken in the Bang Bang sauce, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 1,415
- Carbohydrates: 80g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Total Fat: 95g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Protein: 52g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
- Sodium: 2,600mg
Pro Tips & Variations:
- Air Fryer Method: Instead of frying, air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven-Baked Option: Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping once, for a healthier twist.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 6 months.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Bang Bang Chicken!
Cooking Variations: Choose Your Style
Bang Bang Chicken is traditionally deep-fried, but if you prefer a lighter version, you have options.
Air Fryer Method
If you want to cut back on oil but still achieve a crispy texture, the air fryer is your best friend. Simply coat the chicken as instructed, spray with cooking oil, and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result? Crunchy, golden bites without the mess of frying.
Oven-Baked Option
For an even healthier twist, you can bake the chicken. Preheat your oven to 425°F, place the coated tenders on a lined baking sheet, spray them with cooking oil, and bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping once. While it won’t be quite as crispy as frying, the flavor remains just as delicious.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
What Does Bang Bang Chicken Taste Like?
Bang Bang Chicken is a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy chicken offers a satisfying crunch, while the sauce brings a combination of creamy, tangy, sweet, and spicy notes. The heat level can be adjusted, but overall, it’s mildly spicy with a hint of sweetness from the honey and Thai sweet chili sauce.
Can I Make Bang Bang Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken in advance by coating it and storing it in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to five days. When ready to serve, simply fry or bake the chicken and drizzle with sauce.
What Can I Serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as:
- Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries
- Steamed rice or fried rice for an Asian-inspired meal
- Coleslaw for a refreshing contrast
- Garlic butter noodles for a comforting twist
- Grilled vegetables to balance out the richness
Can I Use a Different Cut of Chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken tenderloins are preferred for their tenderness, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips or even boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Is There a Dairy-Free Alternative to Buttermilk?
Yes! If you’re lactose-intolerant or simply out of buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing one cup of dairy-free milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes, and it will work just like regular buttermilk.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Certainly! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The result will be just as crispy and delicious.
How Can I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To keep them crispy when reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken
✔ Use Panko for Extra Crunch – Regular breadcrumbs work, but panko creates a crispier texture.
✔ Keep the Oil Hot – If frying, maintain a 365°F oil temperature to ensure crispy chicken.
✔ Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving – This helps the coating set and prevents sogginess.
✔ Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches for even cooking and the best crunch.
✔ Toss in Sauce Just Before Serving – This keeps the chicken from becoming too soft.
Conclusion: A Dish That Creates Memories
Bang Bang Chicken isn’t just about the crispy coating or the bold flavors—it’s about the moments you create while making and sharing it. Whether it’s a fun dinner with family, a special date-night meal, or a dish that brings friends together, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
From its irresistible crunch to its spicy-sweet kick, Bang Bang Chicken is proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Try it once, and you’ll understand why it has become a go-to recipe for so many people.
So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove (or air fryer), and get ready to enjoy a dish that delivers the perfect combination of heat, crunch, and comfort—all in one bite.
