Bang Bang Chicken

Introduction

There’s something magical about the combo of crispy fried chicken and a creamy, sweet-and-spicy sauce. That’s exactly what Bang Bang Chicken brings to the table—a seriously crave-worthy dish that’s easy to make at home. If you’re a fan of bold flavor, crunchy texture, and quick prep time, this recipe is calling your name.

Perfect for weeknights, game nights, or special occasions, it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make on repeat.

Reasons to Love This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

So what makes this dish so special? Here’s why we can’t get enough of it:

• It’s bold and flavorful with a creamy sauce that has the perfect amount of heat.

• Crispy breaded chicken that rivals your favorite takeout joint.

• Easily customizable with different proteins or spice levels.

• Great for sharing, whether at parties or family dinners.

• Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.

No complicated techniques here—just straight-up deliciousness in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders

• 1 cup buttermilk

• 1 egg

• 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornstarch

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp pepper

• 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs

• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1–2 tsp Sriracha or hot sauce

Toppings (Optional):

• Fresh green onions

• Chopped cilantro

• Toasted sesame seeds

Possible Ingredient Additions and Substitutions

Want to give your bang bang chicken a twist? Try these ideas:

• Protein swaps: Use shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower instead of chicken.

• Lighter breading: Skip the panko and use crushed rice cakes or almond flour.

• Different sauces: Add lime juice, soy sauce, or even peanut butter for variety.

• No buttermilk? Use milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar instead.

Tools You’ll Need

Here’s what to grab before you start:

• Large mixing bowls

• Whisk and tongs

• Deep skillet or Dutch oven

• Meat thermometer

• Baking sheet with wire rack

• Small bowl for the sauce

• Air fryer (optional)

Keeping your tools prepped makes the process smooth and mess-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these easy steps:

1. Marinate the chicken
   Slice chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Set up your breading stations
   In one dish, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another, add panko breadcrumbs.

3. Bread the chicken
   Remove chicken from the marinade. Dredge each piece in the flour mix, then coat in panko. Press gently so the crumbs stick well.

4. Heat the oil
   In a deep skillet, heat oil to 350–365°F. Fry a few pieces at a time to avoid crowding the pan.

5. Fry until golden
   Cook each piece for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a wire rack to drain.

6. Drizzle or toss with sauce
   Once all the chicken is cooked, either drizzle it with bang bang sauce or toss to coat.

How to Make the Sauce for Bang Bang Chicken

This sauce is what brings everything together. It’s sweet, spicy, creamy, and completely addictive.

What You’ll Need:

• Mayonnaise

• Sweet chili sauce

• Sriracha

• Honey

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust heat to your liking. Chill until ready to use—this helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Tips for Crispy Fried Chicken Every Time

Want that golden, restaurant-style crisp? Keep these tips in mind:

• Double dredge if you want extra crunch—just repeat the flour and panko step.

• Keep oil hot and consistent using a thermometer.

• Let the breading rest on the chicken for 5 minutes before frying.

• Drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep things crispy.

Air Fryer Method for Bang Bang Chicken

Looking for a lighter option? Here’s how to use the air fryer:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.

2. Bread chicken as directed.

3. Spray both sides of each piece with oil.

4. Place in the basket in a single layer.

5. Air fry for 9–11 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Toss in sauce or serve it on the side—you’ll still get that crisp coating without deep frying.

Baking Method for a Healthier Twist

Prefer oven-baked? No problem!

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.

2. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.

3. Arrange breaded chicken on the rack.

4. Lightly spray with oil.

5. Bake for 16–18 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

The result is lighter but still flavorful. Perfect for a weeknight meal.

Best Sides to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken

Balance out the richness of bang bang chicken with these awesome sides:

• Cold cucumber salad

• Cilantro lime rice

• Garlic green beans

• Pickled red onions

• Asian-style slaw

• Steamed jasmine rice

It also works well in wraps, tacos, or atop a hearty salad with extra sauce.

Storing Leftover Bang Bang Chicken

Here’s how to store leftovers like a pro:

• Cool chicken completely before storing.

• Place in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F until crispy.

Avoid microwaving—it softens the crust and dulls the flavor.

Freezing Instructions

Want to make this ahead? Here’s the best method:

1. Lay cooked and cooled chicken in a single layer on a tray.

2. Freeze until firm (about 1–2 hours).

3. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.

When ready to eat, reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F. The sauce should be added fresh after reheating for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How spicy is bang bang chicken?

It’s mildly spicy. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to make it more or less hot.

Can I use a different meat?

Yes, shrimp or tofu are popular alternatives. Just follow similar breading and cooking steps.

Is it okay to prep this ahead of time?

Definitely. Bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I make the sauce dairy-free?

Sure! Just use vegan mayo or a dairy-free alternative.

Why use cornstarch in the breading?

Cornstarch helps create a crisp, airy texture that holds up well to the sauce.

Two Resources

• Best Ever Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

• Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders Guide

Nutritional Information

Nutritional info varies by ingredients and portion size.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken delivers exactly what you crave—crispy, golden chicken coated in an irresistible creamy sauce that’s both sweet and spicy. Whether you choose to fry, bake, or air fry, the result is the same: ridiculously good comfort food that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ready to impress your dinner guests or just treat yourself to something indulgent? This recipe is your new go-to. Don’t be surprised when it becomes a family favorite!

Print