Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to impress both family and friends, let me introduce you to my beloved Bang Bang Chicken! This recipe has become a staple in my home because it strikes the perfect balance between crispy and flavorful. The juicy chicken tenderloins are coated in a crunchy panko crust, then drizzled with a mouthwatering homemade bang bang sauce that packs a delightful kick. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun gathering, this dish is always a hit!

What I love most about Bang Bang Chicken is how simple and quick it is to prepare. You can whip it up in just 26 minutes, making it ideal for those evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the kids love it too! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The crispy chicken and sweet-spicy sauce appeal to all ages—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the chicken ahead of time and fry just before serving for stress-free entertaining.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of flavors from the bang bang sauce makes every bite irresistible.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer or as a main course with your favorite sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this fabulous recipe. You’ll find that these staples come together beautifully to create an unforgettable meal!

For the Bang Bang 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. Feel free to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer larger pieces.
• Make it spicy: Add extra Sriracha to the sauce or toss in some sliced jalapeños with the chicken.
• Add some crunch: Mix in some chopped nuts like cashews or almonds for an added texture.
• Go baked: If you want a healthier option, bake instead of fry! Just spray with oil and bake until golden.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk everything together until smooth. This sauce is what makes our Bang Bang Chicken so special—it adds creaminess and sweetness with just the right amount of heat!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken tenderloins into another bowl and pour in the buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes. This step not only infuses flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist during cooking.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, beat an egg with remaining Sriracha. Finally, place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. This setup makes breading super easy and organized!

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove each tenderloin from buttermilk and dredge it first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs. Press down gently so they stick well; this creates that delicious crispy layer we all love!

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

In a large skillet over medium heat, add enough canola oil to cover the bottom of your pan. Once hot, carefully add your breaded chicken tenderloins in batches. Fry them for about 3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once done frying, remove them from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Drizzle generously with your homemade bang bang sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delightful Bang Bang Chicken!

This dish is not only delicious but also brings everyone together around the table—just like any great meal should!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Making the perfect Bang Bang Chicken is all about the details, and I’m here to help you nail it! Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out crispy and delicious every time.

• Choose the right oil: Using canola oil for frying not only helps achieve that golden-brown color but also has a high smoke point, which prevents burning during cooking.

• Panko breadcrumbs are key: Opting for plain panko breadcrumbs provides an unbeatable crunch. They absorb less oil than regular breadcrumbs, resulting in lighter, crispier chicken.

• Marinate for flavor: Allowing the chicken tenderloins to soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) enhances tenderness and adds flavor, making each bite juicy and delightful.

• Double dip for extra crunch: For an even crispier texture, consider dipping the chicken in flour and then back into the buttermilk before coating it with panko. This double layer will give you that satisfying crunch!

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding can lower the heat and result in soggy crusts instead of that delightful crunch we all love.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken isn’t just about flavor; it’s also about presentation! This dish can be served as a tantalizing appetizer or a satisfying main course. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.
• Sliced green onions: Thinly sliced green onions lend a subtle onion flavor while adding a lovely visual appeal.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds bring a nutty essence and enhance the dish’s texture, making it even more enticing.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: Fluffy jasmine rice serves as a comforting base that beautifully complements the spicy bang bang sauce.
• Crispy Asian slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds freshness and contrast to the crispy chicken.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli offer vibrant colors and nutritional balance on your plate.
• Sweet potato fries: These naturally sweet fries provide a delightful contrast to spicy chicken while being crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Bang Bang Chicken experience! Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer at your next gathering or as part of a cozy dinner at home, it’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Bang Bang Chicken is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, providing delicious, crispy bites that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or preparing snacks for the week, this dish holds up beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the bang bang sauce separate to maintain crispiness.

Freezing

• Let the chicken cool completely.
• Arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the frozen or refrigerated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes if frozen, or 5-7 minutes if refrigerated, until heated through and crispy.
• Reheat the bang bang sauce separately in a small saucepan over low heat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Chicken that might help you get started!

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

What is the best way to serve Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is best served hot, drizzled with extra bang bang sauce. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The spiciness of Bang Bang Chicken can be adjusted by adding more or less Sriracha to the sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you go!

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and fry the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven for that crispy texture.

What sides pair well with Bang Bang Chicken?

Some great sides include jasmine rice, coleslaw, steamed broccoli, or crispy sweet potato fries. They complement the flavors wonderfully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Bang Bang Chicken recipe as much as I do! It’s not just about the delicious crunch and spicy-sweet flavor; it’s also about bringing friends and family together around the table. Don’t hesitate to try your variations on this dish—add your favorite spices or serve it with unique sides. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!