Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and easy to make, then you have to try Bang Bang Chicken! This recipe has become a staple in my home because it strikes the perfect balance between crispy and creamy. With its golden panko-crusted chicken tenderloins drizzled in a homemade bang bang sauce, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner on a busy weeknight or hosting a fun gathering, Bang Bang Chicken will always be a hit!

I love how quickly this recipe comes together—perfect for those evenings when time is short but you still want something special. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can serve it as an appetizer or make it the star of your dinner table. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready before you know it.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of crunchy chicken and sweet-spicy sauce appeals to kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance, making it even easier to whip up when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, light dinner, or toss it into salads for a protein-packed lunch.
• Crispy Goodness: The panko breadcrumbs give each bite a delightful crunch that will leave everyone wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s go over the simple, wholesome ingredients that make Bang Bang Chicken so scrumptious. Most of these items are likely already in your pantry!

For the Sauce

• 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
• ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds 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 tablespoon Sriracha
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Coating

• 2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs (plain)
• Canola oil (for frying)
• Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences.

• Swap the Protein: Try using chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
• Add Veggies: Incorporate some chopped bell peppers or zucchini into the batter for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Increase the Sriracha if you love heat, or add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a bowl. This sauce is what makes the dish truly special—it’s creamy with just the right amount of sweetness and spice! Set it aside while we prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In another bowl, combine buttermilk with one tablespoon of Sriracha. This marinade not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy during frying. Soak those tenderloins in this mixture for at least 10 minutes while you gather your other ingredients.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

In three separate shallow dishes, set out the flour mixed with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper; in another dish, beat one egg; and in the last dish, place the panko breadcrumbs. Coat each tenderloin first in flour, then dip in egg before rolling them in panko breadcrumbs. This process will ensure that each piece gets that delightful crunch we all love!

Step 4: Fry Until Golden Brown

Heat about an inch of canola oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once hot enough (you can test by dropping in a breadcrumb—if it sizzles), carefully add your breaded chicken tenderloins. Fry them for about 3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook them in batches if needed.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Once fried to perfection, remove them from oil and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Drizzle generously with your homemade bang bang sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley for that lovely finishing touch! Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

And there you have it! A delightful plate of Bang Bang Chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Making Bang Bang Chicken at home can be a delightful experience, especially with these handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Prep Your Ingredients Ahead: Gather and measure all ingredients before you start cooking. This not only streamlines the process but also helps prevent any last-minute scrambles.

• Ensure Proper Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy texture without becoming greasy.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. This allows the chicken to cook properly and get that beautiful golden-brown color without steaming.

• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the heat of your bang bang sauce by varying the Sriracha amount. Making it spicier or milder can cater to different taste preferences in your household.

• Let It Rest: After frying, allow the chicken to rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This keeps it crispy as it prevents steam from making the coating soggy.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Serving Bang Bang Chicken is as fun as making it! With its vibrant flavors and colors, you can easily create an eye-catching meal that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nice crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions offer a sharp bite that balances out the sweetness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy rolls filled with fresh vegetables make a great contrast to the crispy chicken.
• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice serves as a neutral base that soaks up any extra bang bang sauce, making each bite satisfying.
• Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
• Stir-Fried Broccoli: Tender-crisp broccoli tossed with garlic brings in some greens while adding flavor and nutrition to your plate.

Bang Bang Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Whether it’s for an appetizer or a main course, this dish is sure to be a hit! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

Bang Bang Chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch in advance, ensuring you have a delicious and satisfying meal ready whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the chicken cool completely.
• Arrange the pieces on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken soggy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Chicken.

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken features tender chicken coated in a crispy panko crust and topped with a sweet and spicy homemade sauce. It’s a delightful dish that’s sure to impress!

How can I make Bang Bang Chicken healthier?

To lighten up your Bang Bang Chicken, consider using air frying instead of deep frying. You can also swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a lighter mayo alternative.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! If you prefer chicken breasts, just cut them into strips similar in size to tenderloins for even cooking.

How do I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Can I prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this crispy, flavorful Bang Bang Chicken as much as I do! It’s not just delicious; it’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course. Whether you’re prepping for a family dinner or just craving something tasty, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!