Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken brings together the perfect balance of crispy and tender textures with a sauce that’s both sweet and spicy. Coated in panko and fried to golden perfection, each bite is elevated with the creamy, tangy Bang Bang Sauce drizzled on top.

Whether served as a main dish or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this chicken is versatile and full of flavor. For a lighter option, it can be prepared in the oven or air fryer while maintaining its delightful crunch. Pair it with fresh greens or fluffy rice to round out a meal that everyone will love.

Full Recipe:

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:

1½ 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) plain panko breadcrumbs
Canola oil, for frying
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions:

Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce by combining mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a small bowl. Mix well and set aside.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to create the batter.
Dip chicken tenderloins into the batter, ensuring they are fully coated.
Place panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. Dredge each battered chicken piece in the panko, pressing lightly to adhere. Set aside.
Heat about an inch of canola oil in a large skillet to 365°F (185°C).
Fry the chicken in batches, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
Transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Drizzle or toss with the prepared Bang Bang Sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 minutes | Total Time: 26 minutes
Kcal: 1415 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Bang Bang Chicken: A Fusion of Crispy Delight and Sweet-Spicy Perfection

Bang Bang Chicken is a culinary marvel that combines the irresistible crunch of perfectly fried chicken with the bold, tantalizing flavors of a sweet and spicy sauce. This dish is not just about indulgence; it’s an exploration of how contrasting textures and flavors can come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer or a hearty main dish, Bang Bang Chicken is a recipe that fits the bill.

The Origins of Bang Bang Sauce

The magic of Bang Bang Chicken lies in its sauce. Inspired by Asian culinary traditions, the sauce blends creamy mayonnaise, zesty sweet chili sauce, fiery Sriracha, and a touch of honey for sweetness. This fusion of flavors has its roots in the popular Bang Bang Shrimp, a dish that gained fame in restaurants and kitchens worldwide. The sauce itself, with its versatile flavor profile, has become a staple in many households, complementing everything from seafood to roasted vegetables.

While the sauce’s exact origin is hard to pinpoint, it reflects the global influence of Asian cuisine, which often emphasizes the balance of sweet, spicy, salty, and tangy flavors. The adaptability of this sauce is part of its charm, making it easy to pair with different ingredients and cuisines.

Why Choose Panko for the Ultimate Crunch?

One of the secrets to Bang Bang Chicken’s success is its coating. Panko breadcrumbs, a Japanese-style breadcrumb, are known for their light, airy texture. Unlike traditional breadcrumbs, panko creates a crispier and less greasy crust, ensuring that the chicken stays crunchy even after being drizzled with the luscious Bang Bang Sauce. The use of panko also highlights the global influences in this dish, merging Asian-inspired ingredients with classic frying techniques.

Cooking Options for Every Preference

One of the great aspects of Bang Bang Chicken is its versatility in preparation methods. While deep-frying delivers the crispiest results, air-frying and baking are excellent alternatives for those seeking a lighter dish. Here’s how each method stacks up:

Deep-Frying: This traditional method creates the crispiest, most golden coating. The chicken cooks quickly, locking in its juices while achieving a perfectly crunchy exterior.
Air-Frying: For a healthier option, air-frying uses minimal oil while still producing a crispy crust. This method is less messy and perfect for those who love efficiency in the kitchen.
Baking: Baking offers an easy, hands-off approach. While it may not yield the same level of crunch as frying, it still results in a deliciously tender chicken that pairs wonderfully with the sauce.

Pairing Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is as versatile as it is delicious, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some pairing suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Sides: Serve it alongside steamed rice, fluffy mashed potatoes, or a light Asian slaw for a balanced meal.
Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, grilled asparagus, or sautéed snap peas bring a fresh, crunchy contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Dipping Options: While the Bang Bang Sauce is the star, offering additional dipping sauces such as spicy ranch or garlic aioli can add variety and personalization for your guests.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

Even the best recipes can benefit from a few pro tips:

Keep the Oil Hot: Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is crucial when frying. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken is cooked through.
Prep Ahead: The Bang Bang Sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Choose the Right Chicken: Chicken tenderloins are ideal for this recipe as they are naturally tender and cook quickly. However, chicken breast strips or even thighs can work just as well.

Healthier Variations to Try

For those who want to enjoy Bang Bang Chicken with a healthier twist, there are a few variations to consider:

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Low-Calorie Version: Opt for air-frying or baking instead of deep-frying to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing too much flavor or texture.
Keto-Friendly Adaptation: Replace the panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb alternative.

Cultural and Culinary Significance

Bang Bang Chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a representation of how culinary traditions evolve and merge. By taking inspiration from Asian flavors and incorporating Western cooking techniques, this dish exemplifies the beauty of fusion cuisine. It’s a testament to how food can bring people together, bridging cultural gaps and creating new dining experiences.

In addition, the popularity of Bang Bang Chicken reflects the growing appreciation for bold and dynamic flavors in modern cooking. As home cooks and chefs alike experiment with sweet and spicy profiles, dishes like this continue to capture hearts and taste buds around the globe.

Serving Bang Bang Chicken for Special Occasions

Bang Bang Chicken isn’t just a weeknight dinner solution; it’s a dish that shines at gatherings and celebrations. Its vibrant flavors and eye-catching presentation make it a crowd-pleaser for events like game nights, potlucks, or family dinners. To make it extra special, consider serving it as part of a larger Asian-inspired spread with dishes like fried rice, spring rolls, and sesame noodles.

Conclusion: Why Bang Bang Chicken Deserves a Spot on Your Table

Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that ticks all the boxes: crispy, flavorful, versatile, and easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe offers a foolproof way to impress your family and friends. Its adaptability in terms of cooking methods, pairing options, and dietary modifications ensures that it can cater to a wide range of preferences and occasions.

From the satisfying crunch of the panko coating to the bold kick of the Bang Bang Sauce, every bite is an explosion of flavor. If you’re looking to elevate your meal repertoire with a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to prepare, Bang Bang Chicken is the perfect choice. So, roll up your sleeves, heat up your skillet, and get ready to experience a culinary sensation that’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.