If you’re on the hunt for a dish that brings bold flavors and a hint of spice, Bang Bang Chicken is your perfect match. This crowd-pleasing recipe, inspired by Asian cuisine, features crispy chicken tossed in a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a main course, or a party snack, Bang Bang Chicken is sure to impress.
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a dish with roots in Chinese street food, originally served cold with shredded chicken and a sesame-based sauce. However, the modern version popular in the West typically consists of crispy fried chicken bites drizzled with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Versatile: Serve it as a snack, appetizer, or main dish with rice or noodles.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken
the Chicken:
- 500g chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
How to Make Chicken
1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for cornstarch.
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in the egg, and coat with cornstarch. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
2: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 175°C (350°F).
- Fry the chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
3: Make the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar.
- Taste and adjust the spice or sweetness as needed.
4: Toss and Serve
- Gently toss the fried chicken pieces in the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flair.
Tips for Perfect Recipe
- Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: Fry the chicken once, let it cool, and fry again for ultimate crunch.
- Use an Air Fryer: For a healthier version, cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 200°C (400°F) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise with a vegan or dairy-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can I Serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or a fresh green salad. You can also use it as a filling for wraps or tacos.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer for crispiness before tossing with the sauce.
Is Bang Bang Chicken Spicy?
The level of spice depends on the amount of sriracha used. Reduce or omit the sriracha for a milder version.
Can I Use Other Proteins?
Absolutely! Shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower can be used as substitutes for chicken.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Bang Bang Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With this easy recipe and helpful tips, you’ll have a show-stopping dish that’s bound to become a favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience!