Ah, the magical power of a truly phenomenal meal! I still vividly remember the first time I bit into a dish of Bang Bang Chicken at a bustling little fusion spot. The explosion of textures and flavors was truly unforgettable: tender chicken, encased in an impossibly crispy coating, all drenched in that luscious, sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce.
My mind immediately started buzzing with ideas. I knew right then and there I had to master this culinary marvel in my own kitchen. After much experimentation, tweaking, and a fair share of joyful taste tests, I am thrilled to share my perfected recipe for crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
This isn’t just any fried chicken recipe; it’s a vibrant, exciting dish that brings restaurant-quality deliciousness right to your dinner table. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something extraordinary but still need it to be achievable. Trust me, once you make this homemade Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You are about to discover your new favorite weeknight meal, a dish that effortlessly combines comfort food indulgence with gourmet flair. This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe is an absolute winner for so many reasons. First, the incredible textural contrast is simply irresistible.
We achieve that stunning crunch on the outside while keeping the chicken wonderfully juicy and tender on the inside. Then, there’s the iconic Bang Bang sauce itself – a symphony of flavors that hits all the right notes: creamy, sweet, subtly spicy, and tangy. It’s an exhilarating experience for your taste buds!
Furthermore, this homemade Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for novice cooks. I’ve streamlined the process to ensure you get maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Forget bland, boring meals; this recipe elevates ordinary chicken into an exciting culinary adventure.
It’s also incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping or entertaining. You truly can’t go wrong with this delightful Crispy Bang Bang Chicken; it quickly becomes a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this spectacular Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is the first step towards a truly delicious meal. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this incredibly flavorful dish:
For the Crispy Chicken:
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup cornstarch
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra kick)
* 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
* 4-6 cups vegetable oil (or canola oil, for frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat works best for creaminess)
* 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
* 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For Garnish (Optional):
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
* 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
* Sliced green onions
Substitutions & Variations
Flexibility in the kitchen is key to a happy cook, and this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these ideas to fit your pantry or dietary needs. You can easily tailor this dish to your taste, making this homemade Bang Bang Chicken truly your own.
Chicken Substitutions:
* Chicken Cut: While chicken breasts are common, I often use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor. You can also use chicken tenders cut into bite-sized pieces for a quicker cook time.
* Air Fryer/Baked Chicken: For a lighter version, you can air fry or bake the chicken instead of deep frying.
Toss the coated chicken with a little oil before air frying at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes also works well. The crispiness won’t be identical to deep-fried, but it will still be delicious Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
Sauce Variations:
* Less Spicy: Reduce the Sriracha or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat.
* More Spicy: Amp up the Sriracha or add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra fiery kick.
* Dairy-Free Mayonnaise: If you have dairy sensitivities, a good quality dairy-free mayonnaise works perfectly in the Bang Bang sauce.
* Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tiny amount of cornstarch slurry (1/2 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp water) to the sauce, then gently heat it on the stove for a minute until it thickens.
* Sweetener Alternatives: Agave nectar or brown sugar can replace honey or maple syrup in the sauce.
Breading Modifications:
* Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure your cornstarch is also gluten-free. This ensures everyone can enjoy your delicious Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
* Egg-Free: For an egg allergy, you can use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer mixed with the milk.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a rewarding process, and I’ve broken it down into clear, manageable steps. Follow along, and you’ll achieve perfectly golden, delightfully crispy chicken every single time. Get ready to create some serious kitchen magic!
1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken cubes very dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
Place the dried chicken in a medium bowl.
2. Make the Breading Station: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs and milk together until well combined. Set up your dredging station: chicken, then egg wash, then flour mixture.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, transfer it to the flour mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken lightly for good adhesion.
Place the coated chicken on a clean plate or wire rack. Repeat with all chicken pieces. For extra crispiness, you can double-dredge some pieces (after the first flour coat, dip back into egg, then flour again).
4. Heat the Oil: Pour the vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, ensuring it’s at least 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C).
Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy; maintaining the correct temperature is key to perfectly crispy chicken.
5. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add a few pieces of chicken to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry for 4-6 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C). The cooking time depends on the size of your chicken pieces.
6. Drain the Chicken: Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the cooked chicken from the oil. Place it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Season immediately with a pinch of salt if desired. Repeat with the remaining chicken batches.
7. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken fries, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary; add more Sriracha for heat, or honey for sweetness.
8. Assemble and Serve: Once all the chicken is fried, transfer it to a large serving bowl or platter. Drizzle generously with the prepared Bang Bang sauce. Toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly.
Garnish with chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, and green onions if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your incredible Crispy Bang Bang Chicken!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving that restaurant-quality Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is all about paying attention to a few key details. These tips will help you nail the texture and flavor every single time, making your homemade version truly stand out.
* Dry Chicken is Key: Always pat your chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels before dredging. Moisture on the chicken creates steam, which can prevent the breading from crisping up properly. This step is non-negotiable for the best Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
* Optimal Oil Temperature: Invest in a good kitchen thermometer. Maintaining an oil temperature between 350-375°F (175-190°C) is crucial. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through.
* Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry the chicken in batches. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature rapidly, leading to less crispy results.
Give each piece space to fry evenly and reach that perfect golden crunch. Patience here truly pays off for that perfect Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
* Season the Breading: Don’t skip seasoning the flour mixture!
This adds an essential layer of flavor directly to the chicken, even before the sauce goes on. A well-seasoned breading makes all the difference.
* Resting After Frying: After frying, place the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, rather than directly on paper towels.
This allows air to circulate around the chicken, preventing it from getting soggy underneath.
* Sauce at the Last Minute: For maximum crispiness, only toss the chicken with the Bang Bang sauce right before serving. If you sauce it too early, the breading will soften.
You want that fantastic crunch with every bite of your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
* Taste and Adjust the Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce is highly customizable. Taste it before serving and adjust the sweetness (honey), heat (Sriracha), or tang (rice vinegar) to your personal preference. Every palate is different, and this is your chance to make it perfect.
Storage & Reheating Tips
While Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is undeniably best enjoyed fresh, you might have some delicious leftovers (a rare but welcome occurrence!). Proper storage and reheating ensure you can savor its flavors again.
Storage:
* Sauce Separately: For best results, store any leftover Bang Bang sauce separately from the chicken. Place the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
* Chicken: Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This helps maintain the integrity of the breading as much as possible.
Reheating:
* Oven/Toaster Oven: This is the best method to revive some of that coveted crispiness. Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crisp again. This method works wonderfully to bring back the crispness of your leftover Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
* Air Fryer: Even better than the oven!
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until hot and crispy.
* Microwave (Not Recommended for Crispness): While you *can* microwave it, this method will make the breading soggy. Only use the microwave if you prioritize speed over texture. Heat until warmed through, then toss with the sauce.
* Saucing Leftovers: Only drizzle or toss the reheated Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with the stored Bang Bang sauce right before serving.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a star on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal into a truly satisfying feast. Here are some of my favorite accompaniments that complement the sweet, spicy, and savory flavors of this fantastic dish.
* Steamed White Rice: A classic and essential pairing. The fluffy, neutral rice perfectly soaks up the extra Bang Bang sauce and balances the rich flavors of the chicken. Brown rice also works beautifully for a healthier option.
* Noodle Dishes: A light cold sesame noodle salad or simple stir-fried noodles would be a fantastic match. The textures and flavors complement the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken wonderfully.
* Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or bok choy provide a fresh, healthy contrast.
A simple drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of salt on steamed veggies are all you need.
* Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich chicken. Think mixed greens with cucumber, carrots, and a ginger-sesame dressing.
* Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw can offer a cooling, crunchy element that pairs surprisingly well with the spicy notes of the Bang Bang sauce.
* Quick Cucumber Salad: Thinly sliced cucumbers tossed with rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and sesame seeds offer a refreshing, tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
* Corn on the Cob: During warmer months, grilled or boiled corn on the cob provides a sweet and juicy contrast that everyone loves.
FAQs
I often get questions about specific aspects of preparing this amazing Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. Here are some common queries and their answers to help you master this recipe.
Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I highly recommend making the Bang Bang sauce a day or two in advance. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious sauce for your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What if I don’t have cornstarch for the breading?
Cornstarch is fantastic for adding extra crispiness to the breading, but if you don’t have it, you can use all-purpose flour for the entire breading mixture. The chicken will still be crispy, just perhaps not *quite* as crunchy as with the cornstarch. You can also experiment with rice flour or potato starch if you have them on hand for a similar effect on your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked safely is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a chicken piece; it should read 165°F (74°C). Visually, the chicken will be golden brown on the outside, and when you cut into a piece, the inside should be opaque white with no pink.
Avoid cutting into too many pieces, as this can release juices and dry out the chicken. Properly cooked Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is both safe and delicious.
Can I use chicken tenders instead of cubes?
Yes, absolutely! Chicken tenders work perfectly for this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe. You can leave them whole or cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces if you prefer.
Adjust the frying time slightly, as tenders might cook a little faster than thicker cubes. This makes for a great appetizer version of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Please note that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, exact measurements, and cooking methods (e.g., amount of oil absorbed during frying). This information is provided for general guidance.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450-550 kcal |
| Total Fat | 30-40 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5-8 g |
| Cholesterol | 80-100 mg |
| Sodium | 600-800 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 25-35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1-2 g |
| Total Sugars | 10-15 g |
| Protein | 25-35 g |
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free option available
Description
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a vibrant dish that combines comfort food indulgence with gourmet flair, featuring tender chicken with a crispy coating and a sweet, spicy, and tangy Bang Bang sauce.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup All-Purpose Flour
1/2 cup Cornstarch
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional)
2 Large Eggs, lightly beate
1/4 cup Milk or Buttermilk
4–6 cups Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil for frying
1/2 cup Mayonnaise
1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce
2 tablespoons Sriracha
1 tablespoon Honey or Maple Syrup
1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Cilantro (optional)
1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (optional)
Sliced Green Onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken cubes dry with paper towels
- Make the Breading Station: In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. In another shallow dish, whisk the eggs and milk together
- Dredge the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken in the egg wash, then into the flour mixture, pressing lightly. Place on a plate or wire rack
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350-375°F (175-190°C)
- Fry the Chicken: Fry chicken pieces for 4-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on a wire rack
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, and sesame oil
- Assemble and Serve: Drizzle the sauce over the fried chicken, toss gently, and garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, and green onions if desired
Notes
For optimal crispiness, pat chicken dry thoroughly before dredging.
Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F for best frying results.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 12.5 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 29 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg