Imagine biting into crispy, golden-brown chicken, coated in a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce that delivers an explosion of flavor. That’s Bang Bang Chicken for you! This dish has taken the internet by storm, appearing on restaurant menus and home kitchens alike. But where did it come from, and why is it so popular?
In this Article
What Makes Bang Bang Chicken Special?
Unique Flavor Profile: Sweet, Spicy, and Creamy
Bang Bang Chicken stands out because of its signature sauce—a perfect balance of sweetness, spiciness, and creaminess. The crispy fried chicken, when tossed or drizzled with this sauce, creates a flavor contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Crispy vs. Traditional Chinese-Style Bang Bang Chicken
There are two variations of Bang Bang Chicken:
- Western-style Bang Bang Chicken: This is the crispy fried version, often served as tenders, bites, or sandwiches.
- Traditional Chinese Bang Bang Chicken: Originating from Sichuan, this version involves shredded poached chicken served with a peanut or sesame-based sauce.
Both are delicious, but the crispy version has gained worldwide fame thanks to its addictively crunchy texture and rich sauce.
Ingredients and Key Components
The Best Chicken Cuts to Use
The best cuts for Bang Bang Chicken are:
- Boneless, skinless chicken tenders – tender and easy to cook
- Chicken breasts – perfect for slicing into strips
- Chicken thighs – juicier and more flavorful
Essential Coating and Breading Ingredients
To achieve the signature crispy coating, you’ll need:
- Flour & cornstarch: Creates a light, crunchy texture
- Panko breadcrumbs: Ensures extra crispiness
- Egg & buttermilk: Helps the coating stick
- Garlic powder, salt, and cayenne: Adds flavor
The Signature Bang Bang Sauce: What’s in It?
The magic of this dish lies in the sauce! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base
- Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a mild kick
- Sriracha: Gives it heat
- Honey: Enhances the balance of flavors
Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing the Marinade for Maximum Flavor
Marinating the chicken is key to juicy, flavorful bites. Combine buttermilk, egg, and seasonings, then let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
The Double-Coating Technique for Extra Crispiness
- Remove chicken from the marinade and coat in a mixture of flour and cornstarch.
- Dip back into the buttermilk mixture.
- Coat again with panko breadcrumbs for a super crispy exterior.
Deep Frying vs. Air Frying: Which is Better?
- Deep frying: Produces the crispiest texture but uses more oil.
- Air frying: A healthier alternative with less oil, but still achieves good crunch.
If you love crispy and spicy chicken, you might also enjoy these oven-baked Buffalo wings for a healthier alternative to deep frying.
Healthier Alternatives and Modifications
- Baking instead of frying: Use a wire rack to promote even crisping.
- Keto version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour.
- Dairy-free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk and lemon juice.
Want to cut back on sodium without sacrificing flavor? Check out this low-sodium Buffalo wings recipe for a guilt-free indulgence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan: This lowers oil temperature, making the coating soggy.
- Skipping the double-coating: A single layer won’t achieve maximum crispiness.
- Using the wrong oil: Stick to high-smoke point oils like canola or peanut oil.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
Best Side Dishes
Wondering what to serve with Bang Bang Chicken? Here are some delicious options:
- Steamed or Fried Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up all the sauce.
- Coleslaw: The fresh crunch of coleslaw balances the heat.
- Roasted Vegetables: A nutritious side that complements the crispy chicken.
- French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Perfect for dipping into extra Bang Bang sauce.
Creative Ways to Serve
- Bang Bang Chicken Tacos: Load crispy chicken into tortillas with slaw and sauce.
- Bang Bang Chicken Salad: Toss pieces over a bed of greens for a flavorful twist.
- Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich: Stack in a bun with lettuce and pickles.
- Bang Bang Chicken Wrap: Roll it in a tortilla with veggies for a quick meal.
Drink Pairings
- Sweet Iced Tea: Balances the spice beautifully.
- Lemonade: The tanginess enhances the flavors.
- Mango or Pineapple Juice: Complements the tropical elements of the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken without deep-frying?
Yes! You can use an air fryer for a crispier, healthier option or bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What’s the best way to keep Bang Bang Chicken crispy?
To maintain crispiness, serve immediately after frying. If making ahead, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) to restore crunch. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the coating soggy.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and replace flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for the coating.
How do I make Bang Bang Chicken less spicy?
To reduce spice, decrease or omit the Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. You can also add more mayonnaise or honey to balance the heat.
How long does Bang Bang Chicken last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in an oven or air fryer.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Try using shrimp, tofu, cauliflower, or even fish as a delicious alternative to chicken.
What’s the best way to reheat Bang Bang Chicken?
For the best texture, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the coating.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Making it?
Bang Bang Chicken is crispy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you deep fry or air fry, drizzle or toss, this dish is a must-try for chicken lovers.
Give it a shot and share your version on social media! Have a favorite twist on this recipe? Drop a comment below!
Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Canola oil for frying
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. Set aside.
- Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until well combined. Add chicken tenderloins, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Bread the Chicken: Place panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. Remove each chicken piece from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and coat thoroughly with panko. Set aside.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, pour about an inch of canola oil. Heat over medium-high until it reaches 365°F (185°C).
- Fry the Chicken: Working in batches, fry the breaded chicken pieces for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the oil temperature returns to 365°F before adding new pieces.
- Drain and Serve: Place fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Drizzle with the prepared Bang Bang sauce and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.