If you’ve never had Bang Bang Chicken before, you’re in for a real treat! This dish is all about bold flavors—a crispy, golden exterior paired with a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that will make your taste buds sing. Whether it’s served as an appetizer, dinner, or snack, Bang Bang Chicken is always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive in and create this irresistible dish together!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful dish:
- Chicken breast or thighs (1 ½ lbs): Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy frying and serving. Using boneless, skinless chicken ensures quick cooking and tender bites.
- Cornstarch (½ cup): Creates that signature light, crispy coating. Bonus: It’s naturally gluten-free!
- Eggs (2, beaten): Helps the cornstarch adhere to the chicken for a perfectly crisp crust.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Adds extra crunch to every bite.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): The essential seasoning base for your chicken.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Neutral and ideal for frying without overpowering the flavors.
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): Creamy and rich, it forms the base of the sauce.
- Sweet chili sauce (3 tbsp): Adds the perfect touch of sweetness and tang.
- Sriracha (2 tbsp): Gives the sauce its iconic heat. Feel free to adjust the amount for your spice preference.
- Honey (1 tbsp): Balances out the spiciness with a hint of sweetness.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken
Follow these steps to create the ultimate Bang Bang Chicken:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Set up three bowls: one with cornstarch, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken piece into the cornstarch, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumbs. Press lightly to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F, fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per batch). Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. Taste and adjust the spice level if needed.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Toss the crispy chicken pieces in the Bang Bang Sauce until well-coated. Serve immediately for maximum crunch and flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Sharp knife and cutting board for prepping the chicken
- Mixing bowls for breading and sauce
- Deep skillet or wok for frying
- Wire rack or paper towels for draining the chicken
- Whisk for making the sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, spray lightly with cooking oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Is there a healthier sauce option?
You can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten up the sauce while still keeping it creamy.
Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
The chicken is best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness, but you can fry it ahead of time and reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Add the sauce just before serving.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. It also works as a filling for wraps or sliders.
How spicy is the Bang Bang Sauce?
The spice level is mild to medium, depending on the amount of sriracha used. You can adjust it by adding more or less to suit your taste.
Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Bang Bang Shrimp is another popular variation of this dish. Use the same breading and sauce for equally delicious results.
What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are great choices for frying as they can handle high heat without affecting the flavor.
Conclusion
There you have it—crispy, saucy, and incredibly flavorful Bang Bang Chicken! Whether you’re making this for a family dinner or a party snack, it’s sure to be a hit. I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. Don’t forget to share this post on Facebook or pin it to your Pinterest board so you can enjoy it again and again. 😊
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