These Bang Bang Chicken bites are the crispy, spicy, and creamy comfort food you’ve been craving! With a delicious homemade bang bang sauce and tender chicken that’s easy to whip up, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. Allow me to share with you a recipe that has been a treasured favorite in my kitchen.
I first stumbled upon Bang Bang Chicken during a family get-together when someone brought a platter that quickly disappeared. The crunch of the chicken with the sweet and spicy sauce had us all reaching for seconds. Since then, I have mastered this recipe and it has become a staple in our home, making its way to many happy dinner tables.
Why You’ll Adore This Flavorful Dish
Bang Bang Chicken is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience. The combination of creamy mayo, spicy Sriracha, and a hint of sweetness from honey creates a heavenly sauce that dances on your taste buds. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining friends.
Let’s Dive into Making Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
- ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 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) plain panko breadcrumbs
- Canola oil (for frying)
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Adjust the spice level by adding more Sriracha if desired. Set this deliciousness aside for later.
- Prep the Chicken: In a bowl, soak the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes—this will help keep them juicy and tender.
- Create Your Breading Station: In one dish, mix the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. In another bowl, whisk the egg and additional Sriracha together. Finally, place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, then coat it in the flour mixture, dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with the panko breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate.
- Fry It Up: Heat canola oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully add the chicken strips in batches, frying until golden brown and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Toss in Sauce: While the chicken is still warm, toss it gently in your prepared bang bang sauce, ensuring each piece is nicely coated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy your crispy, spicy Bang Bang Chicken!
How to Store Your Bang Bang Chicken
If you happen to have leftovers (though I can’t imagine that happening), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain that crunchy texture—nobody wants soggy chicken!
Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken
- For an extra crispy coating, let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying.
- Adjust the heat by modifying the amount of Sriracha in both the sauce and the chicken coating.
- If frying isn’t your thing, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Fun Variations to Try
Feel free to switch things up! You can substitute chicken tenderloins with shrimp or tofu for a different spin. Or, try adding some crushed peanuts for a delightful crunch on top. The sauce can also be used with a variety of proteins, so get creative!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken in advance?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, just fry the chicken and toss it in the sauce.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a fresh salad. You can also serve it as an appetizer with veggie sticks!
Is Bang Bang Chicken spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. If you love heat, add more Sriracha to both the sauce and the chicken coating for an extra kick.
Bang Bang Chicken is the perfect combination of flavor, simplicity, and comfort that will leave your family and friends asking for the recipe! Enjoy making this dish that has brought so much joy to my kitchen, I know it will be a hit in yours too!