Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is the perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy family dinner. This dish features crispy, golden-fried chicken tenders coated in a creamy, spicy, and sweet sauce that will impress your guests. With its delightful crunch and flavorful kick, Bang Bang Chicken is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just 20 minutes of prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha creates a unique flavor profile that’s both savory and sweet.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer at parties or as a main course paired with rice or salad – it fits any occasion perfectly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its crispy texture and rich sauce, this dish is loved by both adults and kids alike.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of Sriracha or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Bang Bang Chicken efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will help ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture without burning.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients separately before mixing them into the final batter or sauce.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending sauces smoothly without lumps, ensuring an even consistency in your Bang Bang Sauce.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping chicken tenders while frying, keeping your hands safe from hot oil splatters.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless (skinless chicken tenderloins)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 cups plain panko breadcrumbs
• Canola oil (for frying)
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha sauce, and honey. Whisk until smooth. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In another bowl, mix buttermilk with 1 tablespoon of Sriracha. Add chicken tenderloins to the mixture and let them marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare Breading Station

In one bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. In a second bowl, beat one egg. In a third bowl, place panko breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Remove chicken from buttermilk marinade. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture first, then dip into the beaten egg before coating with panko breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is fully covered.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Heat canola oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot (around 350°F), carefully add breaded chicken pieces in batches. Fry until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Drain excess oil on paper towels.

Step 6: Serve

Drizzle some of the prepared Bang Bang Sauce over the fried chicken and toss gently to coat. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot! Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main dish, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve crispy Bang Bang Chicken tenders with toothpicks for easy eating at parties.
• Pair the chicken with a small bowl of extra Bang Bang Sauce for dipping.

On a Salad

• Place the crispy chicken over mixed greens for a delicious salad. Add cherry tomatoes and cucumber for freshness.
• Drizzle additional Bang Bang Sauce on top for a spicy kick.

In a Wrap

• Roll the chicken in a tortilla with lettuce, avocado, and extra sauce for a satisfying wrap.
• Add some shredded carrots for crunch and color.

With Rice or Noodles

• Serve the chicken over jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles to make it a hearty meal.
• Garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor.

As Part of a Platter

• Include Bang Bang Chicken on a platter alongside other appetizers like spring rolls and dumplings.
• This makes for an enticing spread that guests will love.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

To achieve perfectly crispy and flavorful Bang Bang Chicken, follow these essential tips.

• Use buttermilk: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk not only tenderizes it but also helps the coating stick better.
• Double coat: For extra crunch, dip each piece of chicken in flour, then the egg mixture, and finally coat it in panko breadcrumbs twice.
• Control oil temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying to ensure crispiness without excessive greasiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken. Fry in batches if needed.
• Allow to rest: Let fried chicken rest on paper towels briefly after cooking to absorb excess oil while remaining crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to complement this delicious meal.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
2. Fried Rice – A savory fried rice dish with peas and carrots enhances the meal’s texture and taste.
3. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
4. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread serves as a delightful accompaniment, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
5. Sweet Potato Fries – These fries add sweetness that balances out the spiciness of the chicken beautifully.
6. Asian Cucumber Salad – A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, sesame oil, and vinegar offers a light counterpoint to the dish.
7. Quinoa Salad – A quinoa salad mixed with herbs adds protein and nutrients while being light yet filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Chicken, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the buttermilk: This ingredient is crucial for tenderizing the chicken. Always marinate your chicken in buttermilk to achieve that juicy texture.
• Overcrowding the fryer: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to ensure crispy, golden-brown chicken.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season your flour mixture can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to add salt and spices for flavor.
• Rushing the sauce preparation: A well-mixed sauce is key. Take your time combining mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey for a balanced flavor.
• Inadequate cooling time: Not letting the chicken cool on a wire rack can make it soggy. Allow it to rest properly after frying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container.
• item It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken

• item Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• item It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on high for about 1-2 minutes, but this may make the chicken less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil. Add chicken and cook until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy fried chicken dish coated in a creamy and spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Just store them properly until you’re ready to serve.

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The spice level can vary based on how much Sriracha you use. Adjust it according to your taste preference!

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad, making it versatile for any meal.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile! This dish works well as an appetizer or main course and can be customized with different spices or sauces. Give it a try at your next gathering – your guests will love it!