Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and easy to whip up, then you’re in for a treat with Bang Bang Chicken! This recipe is one of my favorites because it combines tender, crispy chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce that has just the right amount of kick. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, Bang Bang Chicken brings smiles to the table every single time. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can serve it as an appetizer or as the star of your dinner plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 20 minutes of prep, you can have this dish ready in no time!
• Crispy and Flavorful: The panko crust gives each tenderloin a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the zesty bang bang sauce.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this dish—it’s a surefire way to please everyone at the table.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and fry it just before serving for an even easier meal.
• Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the Sriracha to your taste for just the right amount of heat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Bang Bang Chicken, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. These ingredients come together beautifully to create something truly special!

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
• Baked version: If you’re looking for a healthier option, bake instead of fry by placing the coated chicken on a baking sheet and roasting until crispy.
• Add veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or carrots into the mix for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like buffalo or honey mustard if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. This homemade bang bang sauce is key—it adds creaminess and flavor that elevates the crispy chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken tenderloins in a shallow dish and pour buttermilk over them. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes. This step helps tenderize the meat while adding moisture.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. In another bowl, beat an egg with Sriracha. In a third bowl, place panko breadcrumbs. This setup makes it easy to coat your chicken evenly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Take each tenderloin from the buttermilk bath and first dredge it in the flour mixture. Dip it into the egg mixture next, followed by coating it thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs. This triple-layer breading will ensure maximum crunch!

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

In a deep pan over medium-high heat, add enough canola oil for frying. Once hot, carefully place in your breaded chicken pieces. Fry them for about 6 minutes until they’re golden brown on both sides. Remove them from oil and let drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Drizzle with Sauce & Serve

Once cooked through and crispy, drizzle your homemade bang bang sauce generously over the chicken or serve it on the side for dipping! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that perfect finishing touch.

Enjoy sharing this delicious Bang Bang Chicken recipe with friends and family—it’s bound to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Making Bang Bang Chicken can be a breeze if you keep a few key tips in mind. Here are some tried-and-true suggestions to help you achieve that perfectly crispy, flavor-packed result!

• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken tenderloins soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes helps tenderize the meat and infuses it with moisture, making each bite juicy and delicious.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Opting for panko instead of regular breadcrumbs gives your chicken that irresistible crunch. Panko is lighter and airier, creating a crispy coating that holds up beautifully when fried.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keeping your frying oil at around 350°F (175°C) ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and forms a golden crust without absorbing too much oil. A kitchen thermometer can be a great investment here!
• Adjust Spiciness: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to tweak the amount of Sriracha in both the sauce and the breading mixture. Start small and gradually increase until you find your perfect balance!
• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime right before serving can elevate the dish and add a pop of color. It makes for an appealing presentation that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is not only delicious but also visually striking, making it perfect for entertaining or enjoying a cozy night in. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that lightens up the dish.
• Sliced green onions: Adding sliced green onions provides a subtle crunch and enhances the visual appeal with their vibrant green hue.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side lets guests brighten up their bites with zesty citrus notes.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers tossed in a sesame vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken while adding a satisfying crunch.
• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up any extra bang bang sauce, creating a well-rounded meal full of flavor.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy taste of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs beautifully with the spicy-sweet notes of the chicken, providing balance on your plate.
• Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy delights offer a sweet contrast to the savory chicken, enhancing the overall experience with their delightful texture.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Bang Bang Chicken will shine as both an appetizer or main course that brings smiles all around! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious bites throughout the week with minimal effort. You can make it ahead of time and store it properly to keep it fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely.
• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer bag or airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave: place on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• If desired, briefly pan-fry in a little oil to crisp up the coating again.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Bang Bang Chicken.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken without buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How do I spice up my Bang Bang Chicken?

To add extra heat to your Bang Bang Chicken, consider increasing the amount of Sriracha in both the sauce and the batter. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the finished dish for an added kick!

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with rice, salads, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve it as an appetizer alongside dipping sauces!

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Absolutely! You can bake the chicken instead of frying it by placing it on a baking sheet and cooking at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown. This reduces oil intake while still delivering flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Bang Bang Chicken! This recipe not only brings together fantastic flavors but also offers a fun cooking experience that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing it for dinner or as part of meal prep, I’m sure you’ll enjoy every bite. Happy cooking and bon appétit!