Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to impress without spending all day in the kitchen, you’ve come to the right place! Bang Bang Chicken is one of those magical recipes that never fails to bring smiles to the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this crispy chicken drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce hits all the right notes. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why it has become a beloved favorite in my house.

The beauty of Bang Bang Chicken lies not just in its flavor but also in how quickly it comes together. With just a few simple steps, you can serve up an irresistible dish that everyone will rave about. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 26 minutes from start to finish—perfect for weeknight dinners!
• Crispy Delight: The panko breadcrumbs give each tenderloin an irresistible crunch that kids (and adults!) can’t resist.
• Customizable Sauce: Adjust the spice level of the bang bang sauce to suit your family’s taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with all ages, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the chicken ahead of time and fry it just before serving for maximum freshness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Bang Bang Chicken is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that pack tons of flavor into each bite.

For the Bang Bang 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand.

• Swap the Protein: Try using chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
• Baked Version: For a healthier option, bake instead of fry—just spray with oil and bake until golden brown.
• Add Veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or broccoli florets into the frying pan for added color and nutrition.
• Switch Up the Sauce: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or buffalo sauce if you want a different flavor profile.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Mix well until smooth. This homemade bang bang sauce adds that deliciously creamy and spicy element that makes this dish stand out. Don’t be afraid to adjust the Sriracha based on your heat preference!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken tenderloins in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes. Marinating helps tenderize the chicken while keeping it juicy during cooking. Plus, who doesn’t love extra moisture?

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, whisk together egg and Sriracha. Finally, place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. This setup ensures an easy coating process and prevents messy hands!

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Take each marinated tenderloin, dip it first into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so they stick well. This three-step breading creates an amazing crunch when fried!

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

In a large skillet over medium heat, add enough canola oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Once hot, carefully add breaded chicken pieces in batches—don’t overcrowd! Fry each side for about 3 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The sizzling sound is music to any cook’s ears!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once fried to perfection, remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Drizzle your homemade bang bang sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish. Serve immediately while still hot and crispy!

And there you have it—your very own plate of delightful Bang Bang Chicken! Enjoy every bite as you share this meal with friends and family; it’s bound to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Making the perfect Bang Bang Chicken can be a breeze with a few helpful tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your dish turns out irresistibly crispy and delicious.

• Use fresh chicken tenderloins – Fresh chicken will give you the best flavor and texture. If you can, buy them from a local butcher or market for the highest quality.
• Let the chicken marinate – Allowing the chicken to soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) helps tenderize the meat and adds moisture, making your chicken even juicier.
• Heat oil to the right temperature – Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) before frying. This ensures that the panko breadcrumbs become golden brown and crispy rather than soggy.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan – Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, leading to less crispy chicken.
• Drizzle sauce just before serving – To keep your chicken crispy, drizzle the bang bang sauce on top right before serving rather than letting it sit in sauce too long.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Presenting your Bang Bang Chicken in an appealing way can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable! Below are some fun ideas for presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions – A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Sesame seeds – Toasted sesame seeds not only add texture but also provide an nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Cilantro leaves – Fresh cilantro lends a bright finish to your dish, balancing out the richness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Asian Slaw – A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of Bang Bang Chicken.
• Steamed Jasmine Rice – Light and fluffy jasmine rice is a classic side that soaks up all those delicious sauces. It’s simple yet satisfying!
• Garlic Roasted Broccoli – The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli complements the sweetness of your bang bang sauce while adding nutritional value.
• Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries make for an indulgent side that balances the savory notes of the chicken with its natural sweetness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your homemade Bang Bang Chicken. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Bang Bang Chicken is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch in advance and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the chicken cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave; however, this may make the chicken less crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Chicken that you might find helpful!

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring crispy panko-crusted chicken tenderloins drizzled with a spicy homemade sauce made of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha.

How do I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of Bang Bang Chicken, substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Can I adjust the spiciness of my Bang Bang Chicken?

Absolutely! You can modify the amount of Sriracha and cayenne pepper according to your taste preference. Start with a little and add more if you like it spicier!

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, salads, or steamed vegetables. It also makes an excellent appetizer for parties or gatherings!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Bang Bang Chicken! Its crispy texture combined with the creamy and spicy sauce makes it truly special. Whether you’re preparing it for dinner or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out!