As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of something crispy sizzling in hot oil filled the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite fusion restaurant. You see, I’ve always had a soft spot for Bang Bang Chicken—a dish that elegantly combines a crunchy exterior with a creamy, spicy sauce that dances on the palate. The beauty of this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe is how it offers a quick and satisfying dinner option that can impress even the pickiest eaters. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a sensational meal that you can serve as a delightful appetizer or a standout main course. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game and make your taste buds sing? Let’s dive into this fusion delight!
Why is Bang Bang Chicken a Winner?
Crispy exterior: The thin coating of panko breadcrumbs delivers an irresistible crunch with every bite.
Flavor-packed sauce: Combining creamy mayonnaise with sweet chili and a kick of Sriracha brings a delightful balance of sweetness and heat.
Quick and easy: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up this dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatility galore: Substitute chicken for shrimp or tofu, adapting this recipe to suit any dietary preference. Pair it with jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad, just like my Chicken Enchiladas Beat.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: Whether as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike!
Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
Get ready to gather everything you need to make this mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken!
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and richness to the Bang Bang Sauce; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides sweetness and a hint of spice; for a homemade touch, consider making your own version.
- Sriracha Sauce – Offers a spicy kick; adjust based on your spice tolerance.
- Honey – Enhances sweetness; maple syrup can serve as a great alternative.
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – The star protein, offering great texture; chicken breasts can be used instead if preferred.
- Buttermilk – Essential for marinating, it adds flavor and helps tenderize the chicken; mix milk with lemon juice as a quick substitute.
For the Coating
- All-Purpose Flour – Helps to create a crispy exterior; use gluten-free flour for a gluten-sensitive option.
- Cornstarch – Enhances the crunchiness of the coating; also aids in achieving that irresistible texture.
- Large Egg – Binds everything together and adds richness; consider using a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
- Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate the flavor; tweak the cayenne for added heat.
- Plain Panko Breadcrumbs – Delivers that signature crispiness; regular breadcrumbs can be a substitute but might alter the texture.
For Frying
- Canola Oil – Ideal for frying; vegetable oil works as a great replacement.
For Garnish
- Chopped Parsley – Brightens up your dish and adds a pop of color; green onions can also be a lovely choice for garnish.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let the cooking begin!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken
Step 1: Prepare Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well-blended. Once ready, set the sauce aside at room temperature while you prepare the chicken, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, egg, and Sriracha along with a sprinkle of garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne for an added kick. Add the boneless skinless chicken tenderloins to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Let the chicken sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors and tenderize.
Step 3: Coat Chicken
Spread the plain panko breadcrumbs out on a plate. Take each marinated chicken tenderloin from the bowl and shake off any excess marinade. Carefully roll each piece in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well, creating that perfect crispy exterior you want for your Bang Bang Chicken.
Step 4: Fry Chicken
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 365°F. Once hot, fry the coated chicken tenders in batches for 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them, looking for a golden-brown color and ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating.
Step 5: Drain and Toss
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it with tongs to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. After a minute, place the crispy Bang Bang Chicken into a large bowl and pour the prepared Bang Bang Sauce over the top. Gently toss the chicken in the sauce until evenly coated and generously covered.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle chopped parsley over the coated Bang Bang Chicken for a fresh and vibrant touch. Serve your delicious creation warm, perfect as an appetizer or main dish. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
- Perfect Temperature: Monitor the oil temperature at 365°F for a golden, crispy texture; this ensures even frying and prevents greasiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry the chicken in batches, leaving space in the skillet; overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy coating.
- Marination Time: Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes; this enriches the flavor and tenderness, enhancing your Bang Bang Chicken.
- Alternatives Galore: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower; these variations can offer new tastes and textures to enjoy.
- Crispiness Retention: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for the best crispiness, avoiding the microwave.
- Adjust for Heat: Modify the amount of Sriracha based on your spice level; the beauty of this dish is its versatility in flavor profiles.
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Imagine your dinner table adorned with colorful plates, every dish harmonizing to elevate your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken experience. You’ll create a delightful feast that captivates not just the palate but also the heart.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The mild, fluffy rice soaks up any extra sauce, making each bite better than the last.
- Cucumber Salad: The refreshing crunch of cucumbers provides a crisp contrast and helps balance the dish’s richness. Its lightness and zesty dressing will awaken your taste buds.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness beautifully complements the spicy, creamy chicken while adding a comforting crunch.
- Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in garlic butter bring a bright, savory note that enhances your meal’s flavor profile.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy slaw introduces a delightful crunch and acts as a perfect cooling side to the spicy chicken.
- Mango Salsa: The sweet and spicy combination of fresh mango and herbs adds a vibrant, tropical touch that dances perfectly with the Bang Bang Chicken.
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink, whether it’s sweet tea or lemonade, cleanses the palate between bites, ensuring each taste of the chicken remains exciting.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this warm, gooey delight adds an indulgent finish to your meal that no one will resist, making your dinner unforgettable.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Enjoy the flavors again by reheating, preferably in the oven for maximum crispiness!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 375°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes, to regain that delightful crunch.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Chicken tenders are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious weeknight dinner with minimal fuss! You can marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it in the refrigerator to maximize flavor and tenderness. Additionally, you can prepare the Bang Bang Sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the marinated chicken with panko breadcrumbs and fry it up. Remember, for the crispiest results, fry the chicken just before serving, ensuring each bite is just as delightful as when freshly made!
Bang Bang Chicken Customizations
Feel free to unleash your culinary creativity and adapt this delightful dish to suit your taste buds!
- Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist that’s equally delicious; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with crispy tofu or cauliflower, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this fusion delight.
- Baked Bang Bang: For a healthier option, lightly spray the coated chicken with oil and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Spicy Zing: Add more Sriracha or a splash of lime juice to the Bang Bang Sauce for an extra kick that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this scrumptious dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets without losing flavor.
- Garlic Lovers: Infuse roasted garlic into your sauce or let crushed garlic mingle in the frying oil for an inviting aroma and flavor bomb.
- Herb Variations: Swap parsley with fresh cilantro or green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch that highlights different flavor profiles.
- Creamy Dream: Elevate the sauce by mixing in a dollop of coconut cream for an exotic twist that adds richness and depth.
After you’ve experimented with these variations, don’t forget to pair your Bang Bang Chicken with delightful sides! A refreshing cucumber salad or steamed jasmine rice complements the flavors beautifully, just like my Chicken Enchiladas Tangy or Lemon Butter Chicken. Enjoy customizing this dish to make it your own!
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Bang Bang Chicken?
For the best texture, boneless skinless chicken tenderloins are ideal as they provide tenderness and cook quickly. However, chicken breasts can also be substituted if you prefer larger pieces. Just remember to slice them into thinner strips for even cooking!
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Store your leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When it comes to reheating, I recommend using an oven to maintain that sought-after crispiness. Just preheat it to 375°F and warm for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze Bang Bang Chicken, first let it cool completely. Then, place the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage. It should be good for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 375°F to regain those crunchy textures.
What if I want a healthier version of Bang Bang Chicken?
If you’re looking to make a healthier version, consider air frying or baking the chicken instead of frying. For the baking method, lightly spray the coated chicken with oil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping midway, until golden and crispy. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of Bang Bang Chicken with less oil.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, wheat (flour), and dairy (buttermilk and mayonnaise). If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, there are substitutions like using a flax egg for a vegan option or gluten-free flour to cater to gluten sensitivities. Always double-check your ingredients to be sure!
How can I tell if the oil is hot enough for frying?
To ensure your oil is at the perfect frying temperature of 365°F, I recommend using a kitchen thermometer. If you don’t have one, you can drop a breadcrumbs in the oil—if it sizzles and bubbles immediately, you’re good to go! Just remember, frying in batches is key to achieving that crispy texture while preventing overcrowding in the pan.
Irresistible Bang Bang Chicken with a Creamy Kick
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Set aside at room temperature.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, egg, and Sriracha, along with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne. Coat the chicken with the marinade and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Spread panko breadcrumbs on a plate. Shake off excess marinade from chicken and roll each piece in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure coating sticks.
- Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Fry the chicken tenderloins in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Toss in a large bowl with Bang Bang Sauce until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley over the chicken and serve warm as an appetizer or main dish. Pair with jasmine rice or cucumber salad.
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