Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Get ready to meet your new favorite party dish: Bang Bang Chicken! Imagine perfectly crisp, golden chicken tenders tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that packs a flavor punch in every bite. With a craveworthy combination of tender meat, crunchy coating, and that addictive signature sauce, Bang Bang Chicken is simply irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a show-stopping appetizer, this recipe brings fun and flair to the table, and every step takes you closer to homemade happiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the magic of Bang Bang Chicken is how each simple ingredient transforms the dish into something truly special. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to maximize crunch, flavor, and that famous creamy finish—so don’t skip any!

• Mayonnaise: The base of the sauce, lending rich creaminess and a smooth texture.
• Thai sweet chili sauce: Brings the perfect balance of tangy sweetness and gentle heat to the sauce.
• Sriracha sauce: Adds an exciting spicy kick and a vibrant color—include extra if you love extra heat!
• Honey: Rounds out the sauce with a hint of floral sweetness that perfectly balances the spice.
• Boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins: The star of the show; their mild flavor and quick-cooking nature make them perfect for crisping up.
• Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and infuses a subtle tanginess, thanks to its natural acidity.
• All-purpose flour: Helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly for a beautiful crust.
• Cornstarch: Ensures maximum crispiness by creating a light, crunchy texture.
• Large egg: Helps bind the marinade and coat the chicken all over.
• Garlic powder: Adds savory depth and a hint of aromatic goodness.
• Salt: Essential for drawing out flavors in both the marinade and the finished chicken.
• Black pepper: Lends a mild spicy note that balances out the other seasonings.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): For those who crave an extra fiery bang in their Bang Bang Chicken!
• Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs add unbeatable crunch and stay crisp even after tossing in sauce.
• Canola oil: The neutral flavor and high smoke point make it ideal for frying.
• Chopped parsley: A fresh, colorful garnish that brightens the final dish.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

Start by whisking together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, a dash of Sriracha, and a drizzle of honey. Blend until completely smooth and creamy—a quick taste will confirm you’ve struck that magical balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy. Cover the sauce and set it aside; this is the craveworthy finishing touch for your chicken.

Step 2: Create the Chicken Marinade

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, another spoonful of Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne if you like things hot. Whisk everything until the mixture is smooth. Slide in the chicken tenderloins and turn them so they’re totally coated. Let them soak up those flavors and tenderize for 10 minutes—just enough time for the magic to happen.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Pour your panko breadcrumbs onto a large plate. Working one piece at a time, lift the marinated chicken from the bowl, shake off excess, and press both sides gently into the panko so every bite will be extra crunchy. Set each coated strip aside on a clean plate, ready for the pan.

Step 4: Fry Until Perfectly Golden

Heat canola oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F—a thermometer is your friend here. Fry the chicken in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Each piece will need only 2-3 minutes per side; you want them beautifully golden and cooked through (165°F at the center). Place the finished tenders on a paper towel-lined plate so they stay crisp.

Step 5: Toss in Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is still hot, transfer to a large mixing bowl and spoon on that lush Bang Bang Sauce. Give everything a gentle toss until coated in that sweet-spicy glaze. Every piece should glisten and beg to be tasted immediately.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with a cheerful handful of chopped parsley for flavor and color. Serve immediately while hot and crispy—get ready for applause!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley gives Bang Bang Chicken a pop of green that looks especially inviting. You can also add thinly sliced scallions or a few sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch. Whatever you choose, don’t skip this final touch!

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken shines as the centerpiece of a meal, but it absolutely loves company—think fluffy steamed rice, simple stir-fried veggies, or a crisp cabbage slaw. The savory-sweet flavors pair beautifully with anything fresh and bright on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Try threading the chicken onto skewers for party appetizers, tucking into bao buns with crunchy cucumbers, or topping a big salad bowl for a lighter meal. Bang Bang Chicken is amazing served family-style on a platter, or plated individually for a chic dinner. Get creative and make it your own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Bang Bang Chicken (a rare occurrence!), store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the chicken and any leftover sauce separate for best results, as this helps the coating stay crisp.

Freezing

For longer-term storage, freeze the breaded, cooked chicken tenders before saucing. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months and hold on to their great texture.

Reheating

To bring back the crunch, reheat chicken tenders in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp again. Toss with the Bang Bang Sauce just before serving so every bite is as fresh and vibrant as the first time.

FAQs

Can I bake Bang Bang Chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely! For a lighter version, place breaded chicken tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet, mist with cooking spray, and bake at 425°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.

Is there a good substitute for buttermilk?

Yes, you can easily make your own by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes—it’ll thicken and work perfectly in the marinade.

What’s the best way to make Bang Bang Chicken spicier?

If you love some extra heat, add a dash more Sriracha or cayenne pepper to the sauce and marinade. You could even sprinkle a little red pepper flakes over the finished dish for more fire.

Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenderloins?

Of course! Just cut them into uniform strips so they cook evenly. Both chicken breasts and thighs will work beautifully in this recipe, though thighs will be a little juicier and richer.

What other sauces go well with Bang Bang Chicken?

While the signature Bang Bang Sauce is iconic, you could also serve with a simple garlic aioli, classic ranch, or even teriyaki for a tasty twist. Don’t be afraid to mix and match!

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is the kind of recipe that transforms an ordinary day into a celebration—it’s crunchy, creamy, sweet, and spicy all at once. I can’t wait for you to bring this delicious dish to your table and watch it disappear. Give it a try, and let your kitchen fill with the sounds of happy eaters!

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