Crispy, spicy, and coated with a creamy, tangy sauce—Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that has taken the food world by storm. With roots in Asian cuisine and a name that hints at its bold flavor, this dish is perfect for those who love a little heat and a lot of crunch. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a main dish, or a crowd-pleasing party snack, mastering the art of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is sure to impress.
The Origins of Bang Bang Chicken
Bang Bang Chicken, or “Bang Bang Ji,” is traditionally a Sichuan dish known for shredded, spicy chicken served cold. The name comes from the method of tenderizing the meat with a stick, producing a banging sound. Over time, Western versions of this dish have transformed it into something entirely different: a deep-fried, crunchy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, famously popularized by many Asian-fusion restaurants. The modern take combines the crispiness of fried chicken with the creamy kick of a homemade Bang Bang sauce, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
PrintCrispy Bang Bang Chicken
Experience the ultimate homemade Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfectly fried chicken bites coated in a sweet, spicy, and creamy Bang Bang sauce make for an irresistible dish. Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or party snack that everyone will love. Quick, flavorful, and customizable to suit any spice level!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
11. Chicken
For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts offer a leaner option.
2. Batter and Coating
A light, crispy coating is essential for this dish. Ingredients include:
- All-purpose flour: The base of your batter.
- Cornstarch: Helps achieve extra crispiness.
- Eggs: Act as a binding agent.
- Panko breadcrumbs: For added crunch.
3. Bang Bang Sauce
The star of the show, the sauce combines:
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base.
- Sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and subtle heat.
- Sriracha or hot sauce: For an extra kick.
- Honey (optional): Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Season lightly: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for flavor.
2. Create the Coating
- Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour mixed with cornstarch, one with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge the chicken: Dip each piece into the flour mixture, followed by the egg, and finally, coat with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
- Fry in batches: Cook the chicken pieces for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature.
- Drain excess oil: Place the fried chicken on a plate lined with paper towels.
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (depending on your spice preference), and a teaspoon of honey if desired.
- Taste and adjust: Customize the sauce by adding more sriracha for heat or more honey for sweetness.
5. Coat and Serve
- Toss the chicken in the Bang Bang sauce until well-coated.
- Garnish with sliced green onions or chopped cilantro for added flavor and color.
- Serve immediately with a side of rice, a salad, or even wrapped in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Why You’ll Love Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a family dinner, or just craving something spicy, crispy Bang Bang chicken fits the bill.
- Easy to Make: You don’t need advanced culinary skills to nail this recipe.
- Customizable: Control the heat level and adjust the ingredients to suit your palate.
Key Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Creating this dish at home starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Chicken
For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts offer a leaner option.
2. Batter and Coating
A light, crispy coating is essential for this dish. Ingredients include:
- All-purpose flour: The base of your batter.
- Cornstarch: Helps achieve extra crispiness.
- Eggs: Act as a binding agent.
- Panko breadcrumbs: For added crunch.
3. Bang Bang Sauce
The star of the show, the sauce combines:
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base.
- Sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and subtle heat.
- Sriracha or hot sauce: For an extra kick.
- Honey (optional): Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Season lightly: Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder for flavor.
2. Create the Coating
- Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour mixed with cornstarch, one with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge the chicken: Dip each piece into the flour mixture, followed by the egg, and finally, coat with panko breadcrumbs.
3. Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying.
- Fry in batches: Cook the chicken pieces for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature.
- Drain excess oil: Place the fried chicken on a plate lined with paper towels.
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (depending on your spice preference), and a teaspoon of honey if desired.
- Taste and adjust: Customize the sauce by adding more sriracha for heat or more honey for sweetness.
5. Coat and Serve
- Toss the chicken in the Bang Bang sauce until well-coated.
- Garnish with sliced green onions or chopped cilantro for added flavor and color.
- Serve immediately with a side of rice, a salad, or even wrapped in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
Tips for the Crispiest Chicken
1. Pat the Chicken Dry
Ensuring the chicken pieces are dry before dredging helps the coating stick better and fry up crisper.
2. Use Cornstarch
Adding cornstarch to the flour mixture makes a noticeable difference in achieving that signature crunch.
3. Double-Fry for Extra Crispiness
For an even more crispy finish, consider double-frying the chicken. Fry the chicken pieces until light golden, remove them, and let them rest for a few minutes before frying again until golden brown.
Variations to Try
1. Baked Bang Bang Chicken
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spray with cooking oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
2. Air-Fryer Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken pieces in a single layer and air-fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even cooking.
3. Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Tacos
Use the crispy chicken as a filling for tacos and drizzle with extra Bang Bang sauce. Add shredded cabbage and pickled onions for a delicious twist.
Nutritional Insights
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is undoubtedly indulgent, but with smart ingredient choices, you can enjoy it without guilt:
- Protein-Packed: Chicken provides a high protein content essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Caloric Control: Baking or air-frying instead of deep-frying can cut down on calories.
- Customizable Spiciness: Adjusting the heat level allows for a kid-friendly version.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcrowding the Pan
Frying too many chicken pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy coating. Fry in small batches for optimal crispiness.
2. Using Low-Quality Oil
Ensure you use a high-smoke point oil like vegetable or canola oil to maintain consistent frying temperature without imparting unwanted flavors.
3. Skipping the Sauce Adjustment
The balance between sweet, creamy, and spicy is crucial. Always taste your sauce before coating the chicken and adjust to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with various side dishes:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and helps cut through the richness of the chicken.
- Fried Rice: A more indulgent option that complements the crispy texture.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them tasting great:
- Storage: Place leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Microwaving can make the coating soggy.
FAQ
Can I make Bang Bang sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge in an airtight container.
What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing hot sauce with a bit of honey or sugar for sweetness.
Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower can be used as a substitute for chicken, following the same battering and cooking process.
Is Bang Bang chicken gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Also, double-check the ingredients of your sauces to ensure they don’t contain gluten.
Can I make it less spicy?
Simply reduce or omit the sriracha and use only sweet chili sauce for a milder flavor.
Conclusion
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a dish worth mastering for its crowd-pleasing appeal and the ability to customize it to suit any taste. With its bold flavors and perfect balance of crispy coating and creamy sauce, this recipe can easily become a household favorite. Whether you’re making it as an appetizer or the main course, following these tips and variations will help you achieve the perfect Bang Bang Chicken every time.