Description of this recipe
Bang Bang Chicken is an irresistibly delicious dish featuring crispy, bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a creamy, spicy, and sweet sauce. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. It’s a delightful combination of crispy fried chicken and a tangy, flavorful sauce that will leave you craving more.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll absolutely adore this Bang Bang Chicken recipe because it’s quick, easy, and utterly addictive! The crispy chicken is perfectly complemented by the luscious Bang Bang sauce, creating an explosion of flavor in every bite. It’s an ideal dish for both quick weeknight dinners and fun weekend gatherings. The recipe is also highly customizable; you can adjust the level of spiciness to suit your taste, making it a flexible option for everyone. Plus, it’s a fantastic alternative to takeout, offering a healthier and more satisfying homemade experience.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- ✅ 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- ✅ ½ cup cornstarch
- ✅ ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ✅ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ✅ 1 teaspoon paprika
- ✅ ½ teaspoon salt
- ✅ ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ✅ 1 large egg
- ✅ ½ cup buttermilk
- ✅ Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ✅ ½ cup mayonnaise
- ✅ ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- ✅ 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- ✅ 1 tablespoon honey
- ✅ 1 teaspoon lime juice (optional, for extra zing)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, roughly ½-inch to 1-inch in size. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and quickly. In a bowl, combine the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors, which will create a consistent and flavorful coating for the chicken.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk. This mixture acts as a binder, helping the dry ingredients adhere to the chicken. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure an even, crispy crust. This step is crucial for achieving that signature crispy texture. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes while the oil heats up. This allows the coating to set, preventing it from falling off during frying.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature, as this is vital for achieving perfectly cooked and crispy chicken. Carefully drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy, undercooked chicken. Fry for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken pieces and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil, which helps maintain their crispiness.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is frying, prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice (if using) until smooth. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness. This sauce is the heart of the dish, providing a creamy, sweet, and spicy flavor that perfectly complements the crispy chicken.
Step 5: Toss & Serve
Once the chicken is fried and drained, it’s time to assemble the dish. For a fully coated experience, toss the crispy chicken bites in the Bang Bang sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly covered. If you prefer extra crunch, serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and visual appeal. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Medium
- Flavor Profile: Sweet, Spicy, Creamy, Crispy
- Overall Score: 5/5
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer for parties and gatherings.
- Pair with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- Serve over a bed of lettuce or mixed greens for a lighter option.
- Use as a filling for tacos or lettuce wraps.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw or Asian slaw for a refreshing contrast.
Tips:
- To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, cut the pieces into uniform sizes.
- Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for optimal frying results.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the chicken to maintain the oil temperature.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to suit your spice preference.
- For extra crispy chicken, double-dip the chicken in the flour mixture before frying.
- If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cook Time:
- 15 minutes
Total Time:
- 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 500-700 mg per serving
Conclusion
Crispy & Spicy Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the satisfying crunch of fried chicken with the bold flavors of a creamy, spicy sauce. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or snack, making it a perfect addition to any culinary repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve at a party, this Bang Bang Chicken recipe is sure to be a hit. The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, combined with the crispy texture, creates an unforgettable eating experience. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and prepare to indulge in this irresistible treat!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
- A: Yes, you can bake the chicken for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. While it won’t be quite as crispy as fried chicken, it’s still a delicious alternative.
Q2: How can I make the Bang Bang sauce less spicy?
- A: To reduce the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce, decrease the amount of sriracha or omit it altogether. You can also add a bit more honey or mayonnaise to balance out the heat. Taste and adjust the ingredients until you reach your desired level of spiciness.
Q3: Can I prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Fry the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Prepare the Bang Bang sauce and store it separately. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to crisp it up, then toss it with the sauce.
Q4: What other sauces can I use if I don’t have all the ingredients for Bang Bang sauce?
- A: If you don’t have all the ingredients for Bang Bang sauce, you can use other sauces like a sweet and sour sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a honey garlic sauce. These alternatives will still provide a delicious flavor profile that complements the crispy chicken.
Q5: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
- A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and moist than chicken breasts. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked.
