Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and a crowd-pleaser, you’ve come to the right place! Bang Bang Chicken is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. The crispy panko-crusted chicken tenderloins paired with a sweet and spicy homemade sauce create an irresistible combination. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering, this dish always brings smiles to the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is. You can whip it up in just over 20 minutes, which means you can enjoy restaurant-quality food right at home without any fuss. Plus, everyone—kids and adults alike—loves digging into these crunchy bites drizzled with that zesty bang bang sauce!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a tasty meal on the table in no time.
• Family Favorite: Kids adore the crispy chicken, while adults appreciate the bold flavors of the sauce.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and fry them up when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or as part of your main course; it fits any occasion!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy is absolutely addictive!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients makes cooking more enjoyable. For this Bang Bang Chicken recipe, you’ll find everything you need right in your kitchen or local grocery store.

For the 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)
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about Bang Bang Chicken is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Swap the Protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add Some Veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: If you love heat, increase the amount of Sriracha in both the sauce and breading.
• Baked Option: For a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken in the oven instead of frying.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing together your bang bang sauce. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. This sauce is what gives your chicken its signature flavor. Don’t forget to taste it—adjusting the spiciness will make it perfect for your palate!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In another bowl, add buttermilk to your chicken tenderloins. Letting them soak for at least 10 minutes helps keep them moist and flavorful during cooking. It also allows that delicious buttermilk flavor to infuse into each bite.

Step 3: Prepare Your Breading Station

In three separate shallow dishes, set up your breading station: one for flour mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne; one for whisked eggs combined with Sriracha; and one for panko breadcrumbs. This setup makes breading quick and easy!

Step 4: Bread Your Chicken

Take each marinated chicken tenderloin out of the buttermilk and coat it first in flour mixture, then dip it in egg mix, followed by panko breadcrumbs. Press down gently so they stick well! This step ensures every piece gets that lovely crispy coating we all crave.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Heat canola oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot enough (you can test by dropping in a breadcrumb—it should sizzle), carefully add your breaded chicken pieces in batches. Fry until golden brown on both sides—about 6 minutes total! Drain them on paper towels afterward.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Drizzle your homemade bang bang sauce over the crispy chicken tenderloins and sprinkle with chopped parsley for that pop of color! Serve immediately while they’re still hot for maximum crunchiness.

Enjoy making this delightful Bang Bang Chicken recipe—your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Making Bang Bang Chicken can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh chicken and high-quality sauces can make a significant difference in flavor. Freshness enhances the overall taste and ensures that your dish is as delicious as possible.

• Let the chicken marinate – Allowing the chicken tenderloins to soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes before cooking helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. This step can elevate your dish from good to great!

• Heat the oil to the right temperature – Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before adding the chicken. This helps achieve that golden-brown crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan – Frying in small batches allows for even cooking and prevents the temperature of the oil from dropping too quickly. This ensures each piece gets that perfect crunch!

• Adjust spice levels to your preference – The amount of Sriracha you use can be tailored to suit your taste. Start with a smaller amount if you’re sensitive to heat, and feel free to add more as desired.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting it well can enhance the dining experience, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Sesame seeds – Toasted sesame seeds provide an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Sliced green onions – These add a mild onion flavor while enhancing presentation with their vibrant green color.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Asian Slaw – A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing pairs perfectly with Bang Bang Chicken, adding freshness and texture to your meal.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – Fluffy jasmine rice serves as a great base, absorbing all those delicious flavors from the sauce.

• Roasted Broccoli or Cauliflower – Roasting these veggies brings out their natural sweetness and adds a healthy component to this indulgent dish.

• Sweet Potato Fries – These offer a delightful contrast in flavor and texture, providing a sweet complement to the spicy chicken.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with your homemade Bang Bang Chicken! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Bang Bang Chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool down completely.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• You can also reheat in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
• If reheating in a microwave, use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture, but note that it may not stay as crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Chicken:

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken without frying?

Yes! You can bake the panko-crusted chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The spiciness of Bang Bang Chicken can be adjusted by varying the amount of Sriracha used in both the sauce and coating. Feel free to start with less and add more to taste!

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I store leftover sauce from my Bang Bang Chicken?

Store any leftover bang bang sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s great as a dip or dressing!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Bang Bang Chicken! It’s truly a crowd-pleaser with its crispy texture and flavorful sauce. Whether you whip it up for dinner or serve it at your next gathering, I’m sure it’ll be a hit. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out—your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!