Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that is sure to impress your family and friends, then let me introduce you to my beloved Bang Bang Chicken! This recipe is a delightful combination of crispy, panko-crusted chicken tenderloins drizzled with a creamy bang bang sauce that packs just the right amount of flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to serve something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this Bang Bang Chicken special is not just its irresistible taste but also how easy it is to whip up. With simple ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll soon find it becoming a staple in your dinner rotation. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in about 26 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: The crispy chicken and sweet sauce make this dish a hit with both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep the chicken ahead of time and fry it just before serving, saving you time when entertaining.
• Deliciously Versatile: The bang bang sauce adds a unique flavor that can be used on other proteins or vegetables too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything you need to create this mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken!

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)
• Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Change up the sauce: If you’re in the mood for something different, experiment with sriracha mayo or buffalo sauce!
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews for added texture.
• Make it spicy: Add extra cayenne or sliced jalapeños to the batter if you love heat.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a bowl. Stir until well combined. This creamy bang bang sauce is what gives our dish its signature flavor—sweet with just a hint of heat!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In another bowl, combine buttermilk and tenderloins. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes. This step ensures that your chicken stays juicy and flavorful while frying.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three separate bowls, set up your breading station: one with flour mixed with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne; one with beaten egg; and one with panko breadcrumbs. This setup will help give your chicken that irresistible crispy coating.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Take each marinated tenderloin and dip it first into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally coat it thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs. Getting this layering right is key to achieving that crunchy texture we all love!

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

Heat canola oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add breaded chicken pieces in batches. Fry until golden brown on each side—about 3 minutes per side. Cooking them in batches prevents overcrowding which can lead to soggy chicken.

Step 6: Drizzle with Sauce & Serve

Once cooked, drizzle your homemade bang bang sauce over the crispy chicken tenders and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately while they’re still hot! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

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

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality sauces make a big difference in flavor. They enhance the overall taste and texture of your dish, ensuring every bite is delicious.

• Let the chicken marinate: If time allows, let the chicken tenderloins soak in buttermilk for at least an hour. This helps tenderize the meat and adds moisture so it stays juicy during frying.

• Heat oil to the right temperature: Ensure your oil reaches about 350°F (175°C) before frying. This helps achieve that golden-brown crispy crust while keeping the chicken tender inside.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to soggy coating instead of that satisfying crunch we all love!

• Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in both the sauce and breading to suit your taste. Whether you like it mild or spicy, this dish can be tailored just for you!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Presenting your Bang Bang Chicken can elevate its appeal and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas for serving this delectable dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the rich sauce.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty crunch that enhances the texture of each bite.
• Fresh cilantro: A light garnish of cilantro brightens up the flavors and adds a fresh herbal note to contrast with the savory elements.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Asian slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers dressed in a tangy vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the richness of the chicken.
• Steamed jasmine rice: Fluffy jasmine rice serves as a perfect base to soak up any extra bang bang sauce, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy on the palate.
• Roasted broccoli: The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli pairs beautifully with the sweet sauce, providing a nutritious counterpoint to this indulgent dish.
• Garlic fried rice: Stir-fried rice with garlic and vegetables makes for a hearty side that melds well with the flavors of Bang Bang Chicken.

Enjoy crafting this delightful meal, sharing it with friends or family, and watching everyone savor every last bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later, ensuring you always have a delicious meal on hand.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Flash freeze the cooked chicken by laying it out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
• Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• You can also reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for extra crispiness.
• If using a microwave, heat on low power in short intervals to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Chicken that might help you out!

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are many great options available that will still give you that crispy texture!

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The spice level of Bang Bang Chicken can be adjusted based on your taste. The Sriracha gives it a nice kick, but you can add more or less depending on your preference. Feel free to skip the cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder flavor!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins for Bang Bang Chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken breasts instead of tenderloins. Just slice them into strips to ensure even cooking!

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, salad, or even as part of a wrap. It’s also delightful served with fresh vegetables or fries for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and flavor to your kitchen! There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into that crispy coating paired with the creamy bang bang sauce. Enjoy making this dish and sharing it with loved ones. Happy cooking!