Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a simple, crunchy chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce. It uses panko for extra crunch and a creamy sauce that mixes mayo, sweet chili, and sriracha. If you like spicy chicken with a sweet kick, you might also enjoy these buffalo chicken bowls.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because the panko crumbs make the chicken very crispy. The mayo-based sauce sticks well and gives a creamy heat. Frying at the right temperature cooks the chicken fast and keeps it juicy.

Why you should try this recipe

You should try it because it is quick, tasty, and needs few ingredients. It is a great mix of crunchy and creamy. It also pairs well with simple sides and makes a good snack or dinner. For another easy chicken idea, see these cheesy chicken garlic wraps.

How to make Bang Bang Chicken

This section shows what you need and how to cook the chicken. Read the equipment and steps first, then follow the breading and frying steps.

Ingredients :

• chicken tenderloins
• panko breadcrumbs
• flour
• egg
• oil for frying
• mayonnaise
• sweet chili sauce
• sriracha
• garlic powder
• salt
• pepper

Equipments Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Shallow dishes for breading
• Deep fryer or large skillet
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Thermometer (optional but helpful)

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Prepare the bang bang sauce by mixing mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Set up a breading station with flour, beaten egg, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken tenderloin first in flour, then in the egg, and finally coat in panko breadcrumbs.
4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated chicken tenderloins in the hot oil until they are crispy and golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm, drizzled with the bang bang sauce.

How to serve Bang Bang Chicken

Serve the chicken warm with extra bang bang sauce on the side. It goes well over rice, in tacos, or in sandwiches. You can also slice it and add it to salads or create a fun twist by using it on a pizza crust like a chicken crust pizza.

How to store Bang Bang Chicken

• Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store sauce separately to keep the crumbs crisp.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep it crispy.
• Reheating: Use a 350°F oven or air fryer for best texture. Avoid microwaving if you want crisp breading.

Tips & Tricks

• Pat the chicken dry before breading to help the coating stick.
• Use room-temperature oil and check the heat with a small breadcrumb—if it sizzles and browns, the oil is ready.
• Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for even crisping.
• Keep sauce separate until serving to keep chicken crunchy.
• Add more or less sriracha for a spicier or milder sauce.

Variations & Substitutions

• Baked: Spray with oil and bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping once.
• Air fryer: Cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
• Lighter sauce: Swap half the mayo for plain Greek yogurt.
• Protein swap: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Make the sauce up to 3 days ahead and keep it in the fridge in a sealed container.

Q: What oil is best for frying?
A: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Q: How do I know the chicken is cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you do not have a thermometer, cut a piece open to check there is no pink inside.

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
A: Yes. Slice breasts into strips of similar thickness so they cook evenly.

Q: Is bang bang sauce very spicy?
A: The sauce has a mild heat. You can reduce or omit sriracha to make it milder.

Conclusion

This Bang Bang Chicken recipe makes a crispy, creamy, and slightly spicy dish that is quick and fun to make. For another take on crunchy bang bang chicken with tips on crisping, check out The Kitchn’s Bang Bang Chicken recipe. If you want a step-by-step home-style version, see the recipe at Simple Home Edit’s Bang Bang Chicken recipe.

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