Name: Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: Sweet, Spicy Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option); 1/4 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (No direct substitute, honey can boost sweetness); 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha Sauce (Adjust according to your spice tolerance); 1 tablespoon Honey (Maple syrup works as a vegan alternative); 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins (Chicken breasts can be used instead if tenderloins are unavailable); 1 cup Buttermilk (Regular milk mixed with vinegar serves as a good substitute); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour blends can work perfectly as a replacement); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (Arrowroot starch is a helpful alternative); 1 large Egg (Use a flaxseed egg for a vegan version); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Adjust to taste); 2 cups Plain Panko Breadcrumbs (Traditional breadcrumbs are fine but won’t provide as much texture); 2 cups Canola Oil (Any neutral oil (like vegetable oil) will do); 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (Optional, adds color and freshness)

The sizzle of crispy chicken in hot oil can transform any ordinary evening into something extraordinary. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, a mouthwatering dish that merges the rich traditions of Sichuan cuisine with a Western twist. Picture crunchy chicken tenders drenched in a sweet and spicy sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing and your family longing for more. This delightful recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also perfect for those busy nights when you want to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s adaptable—feel free to swap in shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for a change! Are you ready to turn your kitchen into a flavor-packed haven?

Why is Bang Bang Chicken a Must-Try?

Irresistible Crunch: Experience the satisfying sound of crispy chicken with every bite, making it a delightful dish that appeals to all ages.

Flavor Explosion: The sweet and spicy sauce enhances the savory chicken, creating a glorious fusion that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Versatility at Its Best: You can easily substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu, allowing for endless variations without losing the signature flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, you can pair it with steamed jasmine rice or cucumber salad for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love. Don’t miss out on transforming your dinner routine with this amazing recipe!

Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients

For the Sauce

Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the sauce; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides sweetness and a mild heat; no direct substitute, but honey can boost sweetness.
Sriracha Sauce – Adds heat to the sauce; feel free to adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Honey – Sweetens the sauce; maple syrup works as a vegan alternative.

For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – Main protein; chicken breasts can be used instead if tenderloins are unavailable.
Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken; regular milk mixed with vinegar serves as a good substitute.
All-Purpose Flour – Coats the chicken; gluten-free flour blends can work perfectly as a replacement.
Cornstarch – Enhances crispiness of the coating; arrowroot starch is a helpful alternative.
Large Egg – Binds the flour coating; use a flaxseed egg for a vegan version.
Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to taste, especially cayenne for spice levels.
Plain Panko Breadcrumbs – Offers an irresistible crunch; traditional breadcrumbs are fine but won’t provide as much texture.

For Frying

Canola Oil – Used for frying; any neutral oil (like vegetable oil) will do.

For Garnishing

Chopped Parsley – Optional, but it adds a lovely touch of color and freshness to your dish.

Indulge in this Bang Bang Chicken experience that blends sweet and spicy flavors with crispy goodness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and creamy, with a vibrant pink hue appearing. This rich sauce will beautifully complement your Bang Bang Chicken, so set it aside for later use.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, large egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Ensure the batter is completely smooth. Add the boneless skinless chicken tenderloins, coating them well, and let them marinate for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Coat Chicken
Once marinated, take each chicken tenderloin and place it onto a plate filled with plain panko breadcrumbs. Press each tender into the breadcrumbs firmly to ensure they are well-coated; this will give your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken a delightful crunch when fried.

Step 4: Fry Chicken
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Carefully add the coated chicken tenders in batches, ensuring they lie flat in the pan. Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F, creating that perfect crispy texture.

Step 5: Drain and Toss
Once fried, transfer the chicken tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. After they have cooled slightly and excess oil has drained, toss the cooked chicken in the prepared Bang Bang Sauce until each piece is generously coated in the sweet and spicy goodness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley over the glazed Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. Serve immediately while warm, and watch as everyone enjoys this delicious fusion dish with delight!

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Place in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible for best preservation.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Toss with additional Bang Bang Sauce before serving for a flavor boost.
Preparation Time: If you’re planning to make a large batch, consider preparing the sauce in advance to save time when assembling your Bang Bang Chicken.

Bang Bang Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these tasty twists!

Shrimp or Tofu: Swap the chicken for shrimp or firm tofu. Both add a delightful texture and soak up the flavors beautifully.
Cauliflower Bites: Use cauliflower florets instead of chicken for a scrumptious vegetarian version. Just ensure to adjust cooking time for perfect tenderness.
Honey Alternatives: For a different sweetener, try agave syrup or maple syrup to keep it vegan while bringing a unique flavor profile.
Add Citrus: Toss in some lime or lemon juice into the sauce for a zesty kick that balances the sweetness and spice beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the herb for an aromatic twist. This addition brightens up the flavors and adds a lovely freshness.
Heat It Up: If you’re looking for more heat, add finely chopped jalapeños to the sauce for an extra spicy flair that can ignite your taste buds.
Different Coatings: Experiment with crushed cornflakes or quinoa flakes instead of panko for an exciting texture and flavor twist!
Pairing Suggestions: Serve with a refreshing cucumber salad or Sweet Potato Fries. The contrast of crispy chicken and smooth sides will enhance your meal experience.

Explore new dimensions in flavor and texture with these delicious variations, and don’t forget to check out my Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for another delicious chicken dish that the whole family will love!

What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Elevate your homemade meal experience by pairing delightful side dishes that complement the bold flavors of this crispy sensation.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture serves as a perfect base, absorbing the rich and spicy Bang Bang Sauce with each bite.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness, this salad adds a needed brightness, making each mouthful more delightful.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the spicy chicken, offering a comforting balance of textures and tastes.
Coleslaw: Creamy and crunchy, this side provides a cool offset to the heat, enhancing your dining pleasure with its tangy punch.
Garlic Noodles: Soft and savory, they soak up flavors well, making each bite a harmonious blend alongside the crispy chicken.
Mango Salsa: Sweet, zesty, and refreshing, this fruit-based salsa can elevate your dish with a vibrant twist that’s hard to resist.
Coconut Milk Curry: A dynamic duo! The rich, creamy curry paired with crispy chicken offers an indulgent flavor journey worth savoring.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Both drinks provide a sweet and refreshing palate cleanse, perfectly balancing the heat and enhancing the overall meal experience.

Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken

Get the Right Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 365°F; this is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness in your Bang Bang Chicken.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry chicken in small batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to soggy chicken.
Adjust for Spice: If you love extra heat, don’t hesitate to increase the Sriracha or cayenne; taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Try Baking or Air-Frying: For a healthier twist on Bang Bang Chicken, consider baking or air-frying your chicken to cut down on oil while still achieving a crisp texture.
Store Properly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven for best results—this helps maintain crunchiness in the coating.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Bang Bang Chicken tenders are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy nights. You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and spices up to 12 hours in advance. Simply combine the marinating ingredients and coat the tenderloins, then store them in the refrigerator for maximum flavor absorption. Additionally, you can prepare the Bang Bang Sauce up to 3 days ahead; just keep it tightly sealed in the fridge to maintain its creaminess. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply coat the marinated chicken in panko breadcrumbs and fry them as directed, tossing them in the sauce for a restaurant-worthy meal that’s just as delicious, but with minimal effort!

Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Bang Bang Chicken?
For the best results, I recommend using boneless skinless chicken tenderloins, as they stay juicy and cook quickly. However, if tenderloins aren’t available, chicken breasts work just as well. Just remember to cut them into strips for even frying!

How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
You can store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled completely before sealing to maintain its best texture and flavor.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for that crispy texture.

What should I do if the coating isn’t crispy?
If your Bang Bang Chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, check the oil temperature—you should aim for 365°F. Frying at too low a temperature can lead to soggy coatings. Also, make sure not to overcrowd the pan; frying in small batches helps maintain the temperature, ensuring crispiness.

Are there any alternatives if someone has dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option. For a gluten-free version, ensure you use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour blends. Don’t forget to adjust the spice level based on individual preferences!

Can pets eat Bang Bang Chicken?
While it might be tempting to share your delicious Bang Bang Chicken with your furry friends, it’s best to avoid it. The spices and sauces, especially Sriracha and garlic, can be harmful to pets, so it’s better to stick to their regular diet. But I’m sure they’d appreciate a plain boiled chicken treat instead!