There’s a thrill that comes with creating a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your loved ones. Enter Bang Bang Chicken—this delectable treat brings the perfect medley of tender, crispy chicken and a sauce that bursts with flavor. I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a quiet weekend, rummaging through my pantry for inspiration. The combination of Thai sweet chili and creamy mayonnaise took my taste buds by storm, and I knew I had to share it with you!
As the irresistible aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll find that this dish is not just about the pleasure of eating; it’s about the experience that comes with making it. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or hosting friends for a cozy gathering, this recipe is your go-to for a crowd-pleasing meal in just 26 minutes. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful adventure that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dining experience!
Why is Bang Bang Chicken a must-try?
Simplicity at its core: This recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners.
Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs create an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy chicken.
Flavor Explosion: A delightful mix of Thai sweet chili sauce and creamy mayonnaise ensures every bite is decadent and satisfying.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even toss it in a salad for a delicious twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s family dinner or a gathering with friends, Bang Bang Chicken is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table!
Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise — Adds a creamy texture to your Bang Bang Chicken sauce.
- Thai sweet chili sauce — Brings a sweet and spicy flavor that perfectly complements the chicken.
- Sriracha — A great way to kick up the heat; adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Honey — Balances the spiciness with a touch of sweetness.
For the Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken tenderloins — Juicy and cook quickly, perfect for this dish.
- Buttermilk — Helps tenderize the chicken while adding flavor.
- All-purpose flour — Forms a light coating that adheres well to the chicken.
- Cornstarch — Contributes to a crispier texture when fried.
- Egg — Binds the batter ingredients together for better adhesion.
- Garlic powder — Adds an aromatic, savory note to the batter.
- Kosher salt — Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- Black pepper — Provides a subtle hint of heat.
- Cayenne pepper (optional) — For those who like an extra kick!
For Coating
- Panko breadcrumbs — Creates a delightful crunch that elevates the chicken’s textures.
For Frying
- Canola oil — Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point; ensures a crispy finish.
For Garnish
- Parsley, chopped — Adds a pop of color and freshness to your finished dish.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken
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Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. This sweet and spicy mix should be blended well, then set aside for later.
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Prepare the Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. This mixture should be smooth; add the chicken tenders and toss to coat each piece thoroughly.
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Coat in Panko: Pour the panko breadcrumbs onto a shallow plate. One by one, take the chicken from the batter, gently shaking off excess. Dredge each piece in panko, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres, then set on a clean plate.
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Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, add enough canola oil for frying—about an inch deep. Heat over medium-high until it reaches 365°F; this is crucial for that perfect crispy finish!
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Fry the Chicken: In batches, without overcrowding, add the chicken to the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Ensure the oil is heated back up to 365°F between batches.
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Drain the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to let excess oil drain. This helps maintain a crispy texture!
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Add the Sauce: Toss the warm chicken in the prepared bang bang sauce until well coated. This step envelops your crispy treasures in flavor!
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Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped parsley for a splash of color and serve warm. Get ready to enjoy this flavorful delight!
Optional: For an extra touch, serve with lime wedges for some added zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Bang Bang Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these fun and flavorful variations!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free panko for a crispy finish without the gluten.
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**Spicy: **Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the batter for an extra heat boost that will make your taste buds dance.
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Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake the coated chicken at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes for a lighter version that still has a satisfying crunch.
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Asian Twist: Incorporate sesame seeds into the panko or drizzle some toasted sesame oil over the finished dish for an authentic Asian flavor.
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Honey Mustard Sauce: Swap out the bang bang sauce for a honey mustard mixture for a sweet and tangy alternative everyone will love.
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Veggie Version: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant or zucchini for a delightful vegetarian option that offers bold flavors and satisfying crunch.
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Crispy Tofu: For a plant-based delight, use firm tofu instead of chicken. Marinate it in the buttermilk mixture for added flavor and texture.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the finished dish or incorporate zest into your bang bang sauce for a refreshing tropical note.
Experiment with these options to create your ideal Bang Bang Chicken experience!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for the best texture.
Freezer: Freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy within 2-3 months.
Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked Bang Bang Chicken out for more than 2 hours at room temperature to ensure food safety.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
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Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to soak in the buttermilk mixture for at least 10 minutes. This extra time enhances tenderness and flavor.
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Perfect Panko Coating: Press the panko breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure an even, crunchy coating. Avoid rushing this step for the best results.
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Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 365°F. Consistency here prevents greasy chicken and ensures it cooks evenly.
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Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Frying too many pieces at once drops the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking and soggy breading.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and high-quality panko. This helps deliver the ultimate flavor and texture in your Bang Bang Chicken.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh parsley isn’t just a pretty touch; it adds a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
Embrace the culinary magic as you create a meal that tantalizes the senses and brings joy to your table.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: A perfect base, its subtle fragrance and fluffy texture provide a beautiful backdrop for the flavorful chicken.
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Sesame Green Beans: Crisp and vibrant, these beans add a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the fried chicken. They are easy to prepare and lend a colorful touch to your plate.
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Crispy Wonton Chips: Light and crunchy, these chips are fantastic for scooping up any leftover bang bang sauce, making every bite an adventure.
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Mango Salsa: Bursting with sweetness and a hint of spice, this salsa complements the chicken’s flavors perfectly and adds a bright, fresh element to your meal.
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Coleslaw: A creamy slaw offers a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken, with its cool texture and tangy flavor enhancing the overall experience.
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Coconut Milk Soup: A warm bowl of this comforting soup rounds off your meal beautifully, echoing the Thai-inspired flavors and soothing your palate.
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Chilled Riesling: The sweet notes of this wine play harmoniously with the spice of the chicken, making it a delightful pairing for your dinner.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: End your meal on a sweet note with this luxurious dessert. Its rich and gooey center is the ultimate treat after a savory main course.
Make Ahead Options
Bang Bang Chicken is an excellent choice for make-ahead meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For the sauce, mix the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey, and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this delectable dish, simply heat oil and fry the coated chicken straight from the fridge, ensuring each piece is cooked to crispy perfection. By prepping ahead, you’ll save precious time during busy weeknights while still enjoying the same incredible flavors of Bang Bang Chicken!
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken tenders for my Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, choose chicken tenderloins that are pink and firm without any dark spots or discoloration. Freshness is key, so aim for tenderloins that haven’t been previously frozen for optimal juiciness.
What’s the best way to store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken? How?
Yes! To freeze, lay the cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What if my breading isn’t as crispy as expected?
Very often, this can be due to a few factors. First, ensure your oil is hot enough (365°F) and doesn’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in small batches to keep that oil temperature consistent. Lastly, pressing the panko breadcrumbs onto the chicken before frying helps ensure that crispy texture you’re looking for!
Is Bang Bang Chicken suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions or allergies?
It’s vital to consider those with allergies: this recipe contains mayonnaise, eggs, and canola oil, which may not fit all diets. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Be cautious with Sriracha if there are spice sensitivities; you can reduce or omit it altogether.
How long can I leave Bang Bang Chicken out at room temperature?
To ensure food safety, avoid leaving cooked Bang Bang Chicken out for more than 2 hours at room temperature. After this time, it’s best to store leftovers in the fridge or discard them. Safety first!
Bang Bang Chicken: Crispy Flavor That Dances on Your Palate
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Blend well and set aside.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper until smooth; add the chicken tenders and toss to coat.
- Pour the panko breadcrumbs onto a shallow plate. Dredge each chicken piece in panko, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres.
- In a large skillet, heat enough canola oil for frying—about an inch deep—over medium-high until it reaches 365°F.
- In batches, add the chicken to the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer fried chicken pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to let excess oil drain.
- Toss the warm chicken in the prepared bang bang sauce until well coated.
- Top with chopped parsley and serve warm.