The sizzle of golden-brown chicken hitting the hot oil instantly transports me to my favorite fusion restaurant, where they serve the best Bang Bang Chicken in town. This recipe captures that unforgettable rush with crispy chicken tenderloins paired with a sweet and spicy sauce that dances on your palate. Not only is this dish perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties, but it also makes for a quick weeknight meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it offers plenty of flexibility—feel free to swap in shrimp or tofu for a delicious twist that suits your dietary preferences. Are you ready to bring this crowd-pleaser home and spice up your dinner routine? Let’s dive into the flavors!
Why Is Bang Bang Chicken a Must-Try?
Crispy perfection: This Bang Bang Chicken delivers an unmatched crunch that makes every bite a delight. Flavor explosion: The blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors in the sauce creates a unique experience for your taste buds. Versatile options: Easily adapt this recipe by substituting chicken with shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary needs. Quick and easy: Prepare a scrumptious dinner in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights! Crowd-pleaser: Your family and friends will rave about this dish, making it the star of any gathering. Unlock the secret to a restaurant-quality meal at home without the fuss!
Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Creamy base that provides richness; try Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweetness and mild heat for that signature taste; no substitutions for authentic flavor.
- Sriracha Sauce – Gives the sauce its spicy kick; feel free to use hot sauce if you want a different heat profile.
- Honey – Sweetens and balances the spiciness; substitute with agave syrup or maple syrup if needed.
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – The main protein; swap with shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower for variations.
- Buttermilk – Tenderizes and flavors the chicken; create a substitute by mixing milk with lemon juice or vinegar.
- All-Purpose Flour – Helps the coating stick; a gluten-free blend can be used for those with dietary restrictions.
- Cornstarch – Enhances crispiness in the coating; this ingredient is crucial for optimal texture.
- Egg – Binds the coating; a flax egg works for a vegan alternative.
For Seasoning
- Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper – Seasoning mix that elevates flavor; adjust to preference and omit cayenne for less heat.
For the Coating
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates that delicious crunchy exterior; no substitutes recommended for the best texture.
- Canola Oil – Essential for frying to achieve that crispiness; vegetable or peanut oil works in a pinch.
For Garnish
- Chopped Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness; it’s optional but delightful when included.
Get ready to whip up this Bang Bang Chicken and enjoy a delightful blend of flavors that will leave your guests asking for more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken
Step 1: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ⅓ cup of Thai sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons of Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon of honey until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be creamy with a vibrant, slightly spicy aroma. Once blended, set the sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare Marinade for Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk with ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cornstarch, 1 beaten egg, and 2 teaspoons of Sriracha, along with 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth and lump-free, creating a thick marinade that will coat the chicken tenderloins beautifully.
Step 3: Marinate Chicken
Add the boneless skinless chicken tenderloins to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Let the chicken marinate for about 10 minutes, which will infuse it with flavor and tenderness. While marinating, prepare your coating station for the next step to keep everything moving efficiently.
Step 4: Coat Chicken
Set up a shallow dish with panko breadcrumbs. Remove each marinated chicken tenderloin from the mixture, letting excess drip off, then dip it into the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken to ensure an even coating. The goal is a thick, crunchy layer that will become perfectly crispy once fried.
Step 5: Fry Chicken
In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Carefully add the coated chicken tenderloins to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and the internal temperature reads 165°F. They should be crispy and fragrant.
Step 6: Drain & Toss
Once fried to golden perfection, transfer the chicken tenderloins to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. While they’re still hot, toss the crispy chicken pieces in your prepared Bang Bang Sauce until fully coated. This step helps the sauce cling beautifully, enhancing the flavors in every bite.
Step 7: Garnish & Serve
To serve your delicious Bang Bang Chicken, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Arrange the chicken on a platter, or serve on individual plates. Pair it with jasmine rice or a crisp cucumber salad for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy the crunchy, flavorful experience!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
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Oil Temperature: Maintain frying oil at exactly 365°F. This ensures that your Bang Bang Chicken gets that irresistible, crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
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Marination Time: Don’t rush the marinating process! Allowing the chicken to marinate for a full 10 minutes enhances its tenderness and flavor significantly.
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Pressing Coating: When breading the chicken, press the panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken. This step helps create an ultra-crunchy coating that won’t fall off during cooking.
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Spice Level Control: Adjust the amount of Sriracha to fit your heat preference. If you’re worried about too much spice, start with a little and taste the sauce as you go.
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Cooking Method Options: For a healthier Bang Bang Chicken, consider air frying or baking the chicken. You can achieve a similar crispy texture while using less oil!
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Serving Style: Serve the crispy Bang Bang Chicken warm, and don’t forget to garnish with parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Creating a delightful dining experience goes beyond just the main dish—let’s explore some perfect pairings to elevate your meal!
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Jasmine Rice: A fragrant and fluffy side that absorbs the delicious Bang Bang Sauce, offering a soothing contrast to the chicken’s crunch.
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Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, a simple salad with sliced cucumbers and a light dressing adds a cool balance to the richness of the chicken.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, sweet, and hearty, these fries bring a delightful textural contrast while complementing the spicy flavors of the chicken.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful veggies stir-fried in a light sauce keep your plate vibrant and add a healthy touch to your meal.
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Mango Salsa: Fresh and fruity, this salsa introduces a burst of tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spicy chicken.
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Garlic Noodles: A rich and savory side that enhances the dish’s flavor profile, these noodles will make your meal feel complete and indulgent!
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Chilled Seltzer or Iced Green Tea: Refreshing drink options that cleanse the palate between bites, keeping the flavors vibrant and exciting.
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Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note! A rich and creamy mousse makes for luxurious dessert, harmonizing beautifully with the dish’s dynamic flavors.
Bang Bang Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you make this Bang Bang Chicken your own with enticing twists and substitutions!
- Seafood Swap: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a succulent seafood twist that pairs beautifully with the sauce.
- Plant-Based Option: Replace chicken with tofu or cauliflower for a hearty, vegan-friendly alternative that soaks in the flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for those needing to avoid gluten.
- Baking Method: Consider baking your chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes for a healthier, crispy finish, much like my Healthy Baked Chicken recipe.
- Heat Boost: Add red pepper flakes or more Sriracha to the sauce if you crave extra heat, making your Bang Bang Chicken a fiery delight.
- Addition of Crunch: Toss in sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Flavor Infusion: Marinate the chicken in a blend of buttermilk and your favorite spices for an added flavor punch before coating.
- Sweet Twist: Swap out honey for maple syrup or agave for a different sweet note that balances the dish uniquely.
Ready to explore even more delicious options? Check out my Spicy Korean Chicken for another flavorful adventure or enjoy a refreshing side of Chicken Mein Savory with your meal!
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
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Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety.
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Fridge: Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: Reheat thawed leftovers in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use an oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes for crispy results.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Chicken tenderloins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and the seasoning mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just make sure to refrigerate it to maintain its moisture and flavor. Additionally, you can prepare the Bang Bang Sauce 2-3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, simply coat and fry the marinated chicken as directed for that delicious crunch. This way, you’ll enjoy quick, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making dinner time a breeze on busy weeknights!
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless skinless chicken tenderloins for this recipe, as they become incredibly tender when fried. If you’re looking for alternatives, shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower work beautifully if you prefer a different protein or a vegetarian option.
How do I know if my chicken is cooked through?
Very important! The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F for it to be fully cooked. I always suggest using a meat thermometer to check this near the thickest part of the chicken. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s golden brown on the outside and the juices run clear.
What’s the best way to store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just make sure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes for the best results.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, arrange the chicken in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place it in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer the frozen pieces to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. When it’s time to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat for crispy results.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you have allergies, take note that this recipe contains eggs, dairy, and gluten. You can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs! For a plant-based version, swap the chicken for tofu and switch the egg for a flax egg.
How do I maintain the crispiness of the chicken after cooking?
Great question! To keep that glorious crunch, ensure you’re frying at the right oil temperature (365°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can drop the temperature. Once cooked, drain the chicken on paper towels and immediately toss it in the Bang Bang Sauce to allow it to stick without losing crispiness. Enjoy your crispy Bang Bang Chicken!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken You Can Make at Home Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth.
- Set the sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- In a medium bowl, mix buttermilk with flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Whisk until smooth to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken, ensuring it is thoroughly coated, and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Coat the marinated chicken in the panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F.
- Fry the coated chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain excess oil on paper towels and toss in Bang Bang Sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
- Pair with jasmine rice or cucumber salad.
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