There’s something truly exciting about the crispy crunch of panko-crusted Bang Bang Chicken hitting the dinner table, and I can’t help but smile every time I make it. Just imagine biting into that perfectly golden exterior, which gives way to tender, juicy chicken beneath. It’s a delightful contrast that has turned this dish into my go-to for both weeknight dinners and gatherings with friends.
I discovered this recipe on a particularly busy evening when takeout was tempting, but I craved something homemade and satisfying. With a simple array of ingredients and my trusty air fryer on standby, I not only created a dish that satisfies my craving for comfort food but also whipped up a sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce that dances on the palate. This easy recipe transforms humble chicken tenderloins into a flavor-packed masterpiece anyone can tackle, making it a fantastic choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started on this culinary delight that promises to impress and satisfy!
Why will you love Bang Bang Chicken?
Irresistible crunch awaits with every bite of this panko-crusted delight!
- Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish takes minimal time to prepare.
- Flavor explosion: The sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce elevates bland chicken to gourmet status.
- Versatile cooking methods: Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry, you can achieve that perfect crispiness!
- Crowd-pleaser extraordinaire: Friends and family will be asking for seconds—guaranteed!
- Make-ahead friendly: Cook a batch in advance and enjoy crispy leftovers for days!
Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Provides creamy texture and acts as the base for the Bang Bang sauce. Consider yogurt as a lighter alternative.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweetness and a mild kick, essential for the sauce. Substitute with other sweet sauces if necessary.
- Sriracha – Introduces heat to the Bang Bang sauce; adjust to taste for spice level. Optional to omit for milder flavor.
- Honey – Balances the flavors in the sauce by adding natural sweetness. Agave syrup can be used as a substitute.
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – The main protein, offering tenderness and a juicy bite. Chicken breasts can be cut into strips if tenderloins are unavailable.
- Buttermilk – Adds moisture and helps breading adhere. Can be substituted with a homemade mixture of milk and vinegar (1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar).
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the batter for coating the chicken. For gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free flour.
- Cornstarch – Adds extra crispiness to the coating. Omit if you prefer a thinner batter.
- Egg – Helps bind the dry ingredients to the chicken. Flax egg can be a substitute for a vegan option.
For the Coating
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Provides a light and crispy coating. Regular breadcrumbs can be used but won’t be as crispy.
- Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor of the chicken. Adjust quantities per preference.
For Cooking
- Canola Oil – Used for frying to achieve a crispy exterior. Vegetable oil can be a substitute.
For Garnish
- Chopped Parsley – Garnish for presentation. Can replace with green onions or omit.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken
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Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken.
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Prepare Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne until smooth. Toss chicken tenderloins in this flavorful mixture, ensuring they’re thoroughly coated.
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Dredge Chicken: On a shallow plate, spread out your panko breadcrumbs. Take each chicken piece and coat it in panko, pressing gently to ensure it sticks nicely—this is what will give you that irresistible crunch!
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Fry Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet to 365°F. Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Serve: Toss the crispy fried chicken with the prepared Bang Bang sauce until well coated. Garnish with parsley and serve warm, delighting in each perfect bite.
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh slaw for a refreshing crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
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Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is heated to 365°F before frying; this keeps your Bang Bang Chicken crispy rather than soggy. Use a thermometer for best results.
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Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying. Fry in small batches to ensure each piece achieves that perfect golden brown without steaming.
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Crispy Coating: Press the panko breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly; this helps create a beautiful, crunchy texture as they fry, making your Bang Bang Chicken irresistible.
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Adjusting Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Sriracha in the sauce. Always taste and adjust to suit your heat preference!
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Storage Tip: For leftovers, store the Bang Bang Chicken separately from the sauce in an airtight container. This keeps the crispy texture intact for up to 5 days.
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Air Fryer Option: For a healthier twist, cook the chicken in an air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken
Fridge: Store your cooked Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer bag for up to 6 months. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing the bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, place directly in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, restoring its crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving for best texture!
Bang Bang Chicken Variations
Feel free to play around with these delicious tweaks to make this recipe your own!
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Shrimp Swap: Substitute chicken tenderloins with shrimp for a seafood twist that cooks up in no time.
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Tofu Option: Use firm tofu cubes instead of chicken for a fantastic plant-based alternative that soaks up all the flavors.
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Spice It Up: Increase Sriracha or add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat that can make your taste buds dance.
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Baking Alternative: Bake the chicken at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier version that retains the crispy texture.
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Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions to enjoy this dish without the gluten!
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Zesty Citrus: Add a splash of lime or lemon juice to the sauce for a refreshing zing that brightens the overall flavor.
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Creamy Goodness: Mix in a dollop of Greek yogurt into the sauce for added creaminess, transforming your sauce into a luxurious dip.
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil instead of parsley for a refreshing herbaceous flavor that lifts the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Chicken bites are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the chicken batter and coat it in panko up to 24 hours in advance; simply keep the coated chicken covered in the refrigerator to prevent moisture loss. The Bang Bang sauce can also be made ahead—store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve a delicious dinner, just fry the chicken until it’s golden brown, then toss it in the sauce. This method ensures you’ll enjoy warm, crispy chicken that’s just as delightful as if you made it fresh!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
Enhance your dining experience with delightful sides that complement the crispy, flavorful essence of Bang Bang Chicken.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy and refreshing slaw perfectly balances the crispy chicken, adding needed texture and a touch of tang.
- Fluffy Rice: Serve with jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce, creating a satisfying meal.
- Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic offer a fresh, vibrant addition that contrasts the richness of the chicken.
- Asian Noodle Salad: Tossed with sesame oil and veggies, this light salad provides a refreshing contrast, enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the sauce beautifully, and the crispiness mirrors that of the chicken for a perfect pair.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: Cool and refreshing, this salad with a tangy dressing cuts through the richness and adds a delightful crunch.
- Mango Salsa: Bright and fruity, a mango salsa brings a tropical twist that elevates the entire meal, blending fabulously with the chicken.
- Craft Beer: Pair with a light lager or a fruity wheat beer to balance the sweetness and spice of the Bang Bang Chicken beautifully.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a velvety chocolate mousse offers a rich finish, contrasting the bold flavors of the main dish and ending the meal on a sweet note.
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Bang Bang Chicken?
For this recipe, I highly recommend using boneless skinless chicken tenderloins. They offer incredible tenderness and juicy bites. If tenderloins are unavailable, don’t worry! Chicken breasts work perfectly too—just cut them into strips for a similar texture.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! To maintain the flavor, store your cooked Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can consider freezing it in a freezer bag, ensuring it’s completely cool first. This way, you can enjoy it for up to 6 months!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Yes, you can! After cooking, allow the Bang Bang Chicken to cool completely. Once cooled, place it in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. For optimum freshness, consume it within 6 months. To reheat, just pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
What if my Bang Bang Chicken doesn’t turn out crispy?
If your chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, there are a few adjustments you can make. Firstly, ensure your oil is at the proper frying temperature of 365°F. If it’s too hot or too cool, it can affect the crispiness. Additionally, try pressing the panko breadcrumbs onto the chicken more firmly for better adhesion and texture. Lastly, frying in smaller batches prevents the chicken from steaming.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?
Very much so! To cater to gluten-free diners, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs instead. The flavor and crunch will still be just as delightful, and it’s a fantastic way to accommodate dietary preferences.
Is Bang Bang Chicken safe for pets?
While it’s tempting to share, it’s best to avoid giving Bang Bang Chicken to pets. The ingredients, especially the spices and fried nature of the dish, may not be suitable for them. Always check with a vet if you’re unsure about sharing human food with your furry friends.
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: Your New Favorite Weeknight Dinner
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until well combined. Set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken.
- In a medium bowl, whisk buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne until smooth. Toss chicken tenderloins in this flavorful mixture, ensuring they’re thoroughly coated.
- On a shallow plate, spread out your panko breadcrumbs. Take each chicken piece and coat it in panko, pressing gently to ensure it sticks nicely.
- Heat oil in a skillet to 365°F. Carefully place chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Toss the crispy fried chicken with the prepared Bang Bang sauce until well coated. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.