Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

If you're craving a dish that's a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors, Bang Bang Chicken is exactly what you need! With its crispy chicken smothered in a flavorful sauce, it's no wonder this dish is such a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're making it as an appetizer or a main course, this recipe will leave you craving more. Keep reading for a complete guide on how to make the best Bang Bang Chicken at home, including tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas!

this Recipe

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What Is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a popular Asian-inspired dish, primarily known for its crispy fried chicken tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. The sauce, typically made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, gives the chicken its famous "bang." The dish is incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even in wraps or tacos. Originating from traditional Chinese cuisine, this modern variation is often associated with American-Asian fusion restaurants.

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Ingredients List for Bang Bang Chicken

To make this flavorful dish, you will need two sets of ingredients: one for the chicken and one for the famous Bang Bang sauce.

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to your heat preference)
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional for added sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional for a tangy twist)

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Substitutions and Variations

Want to switch things up or make the dish a little lighter? Here are some great substitutions and variations to try:

• Chicken Alternatives: If you're not a fan of chicken or want a healthier option, you can substitute with shrimp or even tofu. Just follow the same coating and frying instructions.
• Air-Fried or Baked Chicken: Instead of deep-frying, you can opt to air-fry or bake the chicken for a healthier version. To air-fry, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
• Sauce Variations: If you're looking for a lower-calorie sauce, try replacing the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also swap the sriracha for hot sauce if you prefer a different kind of heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your Bang Bang Chicken turns out perfect every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. You want the pieces to be small enough to fry quickly but large enough to get a good, crispy coating.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will create the perfect crunchy coating.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the flour, making sure it's fully coated. Then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally roll it in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces and fry for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan—fry in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Drain and Cool

Once the chicken is crispy and golden, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

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How to Cook Bang Bang Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that the chicken is crispy and ready, it's time to assemble your Bang Bang Chicken dish. Here's how you can bring it all together:

1. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and optional honey or lime juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can make it spicier with more sriracha or sweeter with extra honey.
2. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce: Once the chicken has cooled slightly, toss it in the Bang Bang sauce. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
3. Optional Garnishes: For added flair and texture, garnish the dish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or even a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for some crunch.
4. Serve Immediately: Serve your Bang Bang Chicken while it's hot and crispy for the best taste and texture.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Fryer: Frying too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in small batches for the crispiest results.
• Skipping the Breadcrumbs: While some recipes might call for just flour, the panko breadcrumbs give the chicken an extra crunch that makes a huge difference.
• Not Draining the Chicken: After frying, always drain the chicken on paper towels. This removes excess oil and keeps the coating crispy.
• Tossing Chicken While It's Hot: If you toss the chicken in the sauce while it’s piping hot, it can lose its crispiness. Let the chicken cool slightly before tossing it in the sauce.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present Bang Bang Chicken can really elevate the experience! Whether you're serving this dish at a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some tips:

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the chicken in a bowl with toothpicks on the side. It’s perfect for sharing!
• As a Main Course: Pair it with jasmine rice, fried rice, or even noodles. Add some steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a balanced meal.
• In Tacos or Wraps: If you want a more casual presentation, serve the chicken in soft tortillas with lettuce, shredded carrots, and a drizzle of extra Bang Bang sauce.

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Presentation Ideas for Bang Bang Chicken:

• On a Platter: Arrange the Bang Bang Chicken on a large serving platter, garnished with chopped cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
• In a Bowl: For a more modern, Instagram-worthy presentation, serve the chicken in a large bowl, with the sauce drizzled over the top and garnished with lime wedges on the side.
• Skewers for Parties: If you’re serving this at a party, thread the chicken onto skewers for an easy, mess-free option.

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Bang Bang Chicken Recipe Tips

• Pre-make the Sauce: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
• Use Leftovers Creatively: If you have leftovers, Bang Bang Chicken works great in salads, sandwiches, or even as a pizza topping!
• Double the Recipe: This recipe is easy to double if you’re cooking for a crowd, and trust us, you’ll want to have extra!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can fry the chicken ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness. Toss in the sauce right before serving.

2. Is Bang Bang Chicken spicy?
The level of spice depends on how much sriracha you use. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of sriracha, or omit it entirely.

3. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Absolutely! To bake, place the breaded chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cook in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. How long does Bang Bang Chicken last in the fridge?
It will keep for 2-3 days in the fridge. However, to maintain the best texture, reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer.

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Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken is the perfect dish for those who love a mix of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. With its crispy texture and delicious sauce, it’s a guaranteed hit at any meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow the tips, variations, and step-by-step guide in this article, and get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right from your kitchen!

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