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Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that combines crispy chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce to create something unforgettable. The perfect balance of texture and flavor is what makes this dish stand out.

Golden, crunchy pieces of chicken are coated in a creamy sauce with just the right amount of heat. It’s the kind of dish that makes you reach for seconds.

Whether oven-baked or fried, this recipe fits perfectly into any meal plan. Cooking it in an air fryer is a great way to keep the chicken crispy without using too much oil.

Plus, the ingredients in the sauce, like mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha, are likely things you already have in your kitchen.

With its quick and easy preparation, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is perfect for a casual lunch, dinner, or even as a flavorful appetizer.

The simple steps mean anyone can make it, and it’s sure to be a hit at your next family gathering or party.

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Why You Will Love Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that promises a delightful experience. With its golden, crispy coating, it offers a texture that many find irresistible.

The flavor profile is something to talk about. Imagine a sweet and spicy sauce wrapping each piece of chicken, creating a taste that bursts in your mouth.

The balance of the spicy kick and the sweet sauce is what makes this dish so appealing. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat without overpowering their meal.

The tender chicken inside is the result of careful preparation. It remains juicy, complementing the crispy exterior and enhancing the overall taste.

This dish isn’t just for fancy dinners. It’s a versatile option that fits family dinners or gatherings with friends. It’s sure to impress with both its flavor and texture.

A Bang Bang Chicken recipe can be adapted to suit different tastes. Adjusting the spice level makes it suitable for both children and adults.

The process is straightforward, encouraging home cooks to try it out. Perfecting the art of crispy, fried chicken can be a rewarding experience in itself.

Whether served on its own or with a side, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that invites enjoyment and satisfaction. Its flavor explosion is hard to forget, making it a favorite for many.

How To Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken brings together juicy chicken, a crunchy coating, and a flavorful sauce. Here, we’ll cover the ingredients you’ll need, the tools to make the preparation smooth, and the steps to create this delicious dish.

Ingredients

For the chicken, you’ll need skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces.

A coating mix of all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs creates a crunchy crust.

Season this with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.

The signature Bang Bang sauce combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and a touch of honey for sweetness.

For more depth, add some hot sauce, a hint of garlic salt, and a dash of white pepper.

Instruments

To prepare this recipe, gather a few basic kitchen tools.

You’ll need a cutting board and a sharp knife for cutting the chicken into pieces.

One or two mixing bowls are necessary—one to mix the dry coating and another to prepare the sauce.

A whisk will help combine the sauce ingredients smoothly.

For frying, use a deep frying pan or a deep fryer.

You’ll need a spatula or tongs to turn the chicken pieces and ensure even cooking.

A wire rack on a baking sheet will keep the chicken crisp as it cools, allowing excess oil to drain.

Step By Step Instruction

Start by marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This makes the chicken tender and flavorful.

While it marinates, mix the dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, breadcrumbs, and seasonings in a bowl.

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and coat it with the dry mix, pressing to adhere.

For cooking, heat avocado oil or olive oil in a pan until it’s hot enough for frying.

Fry the chicken pieces in batches, ensuring they are golden and cooked through. This can take 6-8 minutes per batch. Drain on a wire rack to keep them crispy.

Prepare the Bang Bang sauce by whisking mayo, chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and seasonings until smooth.

Toss the chicken in the sauce right before serving or use it as a dip on the side for extra crunch.

Tips & Tricks

To achieve a crunchy exterior, ensure the chicken is thoroughly dry before breading. Patting it down with paper towels helps remove excess moisture.

Flour, egg, and breadcrumbs in that order ensure a thick coating.

Marinating the chicken can add extra flavor. An hour with buttermilk or a mixture of soy sauce and garlic can make a big difference.

For the perfect Bang Bang sauce, blend a balance of mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust each to taste—some like it sweeter, others spicier.

Ingredient Substitute

When preparing bang bang chicken, there are several ways to substitute ingredients while keeping the dish delicious and suitable for various dietary needs.

For tenderizing the chicken, buttermilk is commonly used. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix 1 cup of dairy milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, greek yogurt, or sour cream.

Want a gluten-free version? No problem. Replace all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free options like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. This helps keep the dish friendly for those avoiding gluten.

For spice, gochujang can be hard to find. You can use any hot sauce as an alternative to keep that sweet and spicy flavor. Ground red pepper also works well as a substitute for shichimi.

When it comes to thickening sauces, potato starch or cornflour can replace cornstarch. Either will keep your sauce smooth and perfectly thickened without altering the taste.

For a vegan twist on bang bang chicken, substitute the chicken with tofu.

This works well when paired with vegan mayonnaise as a creamy base for the sauce. It’s ideal for those who prefer plant-based diets.

What To Serve With Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

For a delightful weeknight dinner or a lively party appetizer, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. These dishes complement the chicken’s bold flavors and add a dynamic touch to your meal.

Creamy Sauces: A creamy garlic aioli or ranch dip enhances the crispy coating and spicy sauce of the chicken, offering a smooth contrast.

Lettuce Wraps: Crisp lettuce leaves can transform the dish by creating a light and refreshing wrap that balances the rich flavors.

Avocado Corn Salad: This side brings a creamy texture and tangy taste, matching perfectly with the spicy notes of the chicken.

Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic and sesame seeds, these beans add crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well.

Grilled Peach Salad: Smoky and sweet, grilled peaches mix well with the chicken’s flavors, adding a fruity touch that’s intriguing and enjoyable.

Smoked Queso Dip: A rich and smoky queso dip adds depth, providing a delightful contrast to the chicken’s spicy creaminess.

Mango Pico De Gallo: For a tropical twist, this fresh and fruity side offers vibrant colors and a sweet burst of flavor.

Kimchi: For those looking to add an Asian-inspired kick, kimchi offers spice and tang, creating a lively accompaniment.

Nutrition Fact

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a tasty dish, but it’s important to know what’s in it. Here are the key nutrition facts:

Calories: A single serving can range from 300 to 1,200, depending on the portion size and preparation.
Protein: The chicken provides a solid source of protein, with values varying based on the serving size.
Fat: This dish contains high fat content due to frying and creamy sauces.

Carbohydrates: Refined carbs are present from breading and sauce, making it a higher carb meal.
Sodium: Prepared versions might contain significant sodium, so check labels if watching salt intake.
Sugars: The sauce often includes sugar, adding to its sweetness but also sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bang Bang Chicken is a delicious dish known for its crispy texture and flavorful sauce. To get the best results, try using an air fryer and mix the right ingredients for the marinade and sauce.

How can I create a marinade for Bang Bang chicken?

To make a marinade, blend soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a bit of honey. This mixture gives the chicken an extra burst of flavor before cooking. Let the chicken soak in this marinade for at least 30 minutes.

What are the steps to make crispy Bang Bang chicken in an air fryer?

Begin by coating the chicken in panko breadcrumbs.

Place the pieces in the air fryer set to 375°F. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, to achieve a crunchy finish with less oil.

What ingredients are needed for a simple Bang Bang chicken recipe?

Gather chicken pieces, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. The sauce mixture combines these last three ingredients, providing a spicy-sweet flavor when drizzled over the crispy chicken.

What is the origin of the name ‘Bang Bang Chicken’?

The name ‘Bang Bang Chicken’ traces back to a street food dish in China.

The “bang” refers to the sound made when pounding the chicken to tenderize it, which was a traditional method.

How can I achieve the signature crispy texture in Bang Bang chicken like Chinese restaurants?

Use panko breadcrumbs for that perfect texture.

Make sure the chicken is well-coated and cooked evenly, whether by frying or using an air fryer.

Keeping the oil, or fryer temperature consistent, is key.

What distinct flavors should I expect in a Bang Bang chicken dish?

Expect a mix of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. The sauce combines sweet chili and sriracha with a creamy base.