Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy, panko-crusted chicken tenderloins paired with the sweet and spicy bang bang sauce create an irresistible flavor combination. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings. With its unique blend of textures and flavors, Bang Bang Chicken is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha creates a deliciously tangy sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or even in sandwiches for a tasty twist.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its satisfying crunch and bold flavors make it a hit at parties and gatherings.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha to suit your taste preference—more heat or less!

Tools and Preparation

To make Bang Bang Chicken, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can enhance your cooking experience and ensure that your chicken turns out perfectly crispy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep fryer or large pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Cooking thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep fryer or large pot: Ensures even heating for frying, giving you that perfect crunch.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for preparing your sauces and coatings without mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for a well-mixed batter.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping and removing chicken from hot oil safely.

Ingredients

To prepare Bang Bang Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Sauce

• 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
• ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup (245 g) buttermilk
• ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (64 g) cornstarch
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs (plain)
• Canola oil (for frying)
• Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk until smooth. Set aside half of this mixture for serving.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken tenderloins in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes to ensure they are juicy.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station

In separate shallow dishes, set up your breading station:
1. In one bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg with a tablespoon of Sriracha until well combined.
3. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Remove each chicken tenderloin from the buttermilk; let excess drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture first, then dip into the egg mixture before finally coating with panko breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is fully coated.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Heat canola oil in a deep fryer or large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot (around 350°F), fry chicken tenderloins in batches until golden brown and cooked through—about 6 minutes per batch.

Step 6: Serve

Remove fried chicken from oil and drain on paper towels. Drizzle with reserved bang bang sauce and garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a weeknight dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh salad greens provide a crisp base for the crispy chicken. Top with your favorite dressing for added flavor.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the chicken over fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa for a filling meal. The grains soak up the delicious bang bang sauce.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to wrap the crispy chicken and add some shredded cabbage and a drizzle of extra sauce for a fun twist.

With Dipping Sauces

• Create a mini dipping station with additional sauces like ranch or spicy mayo. This adds an interactive element to your meal.

As Part of a Platter

• Arrange the Bang Bang Chicken alongside other appetizers for an impressive platter. Include veggies and dips for variety.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

Making perfect Bang Bang Chicken is all about technique and timing. Follow these tips to ensure your chicken turns out crispy and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh ingredients enhance flavor and texture, making your dish more enjoyable.
• Marinate Properly – Letting the chicken sit in buttermilk not only tenderizes it but also adds moisture for frying.
• Heat Oil to the Right Temperature – Ensuring the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) will give you the best crunch without making the coating soggy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
• Rest After Frying – Allowing the chicken to rest on paper towels briefly helps reduce excess oil while keeping it crispy.
• Adjust Spiciness – Customize heat levels by adding more Sriracha to either the sauce or the batter according to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Chicken can enhance its flavors and make for a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Crispy Wedge Fries
   These golden fries are perfect for dipping into extra bang bang sauce, providing a satisfying crunch.
2. Steamed Broccoli
   The vibrant green color and light seasoning complement the rich flavors of the chicken while adding nutritional value.
3. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw balances out the dish’s richness, providing a crunchy texture that pairs well with fried foods.
4. Garlic Bread
   Soft garlic bread offers a comforting side that soaks up any leftover sauce, making every bite delicious.
5. Asian-style Cucumber Salad
   This light salad adds a refreshing crunch with its tangy dressing, creating a nice contrast to the crispy chicken.
6. Vegetable Fried Rice
   A tasty fried rice loaded with vegetables can serve as an excellent base, enhancing your dining experience with flavors and textures.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with spicy dishes like Bang Bang Chicken, offering balance on your plate.
8. Mango Salsa
   This fruity salsa provides brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of fried chicken, making each bite delightful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes you should avoid.

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature ingredients like the egg and buttermilk. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven cooking.
• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk adds flavor and tenderness. Don’t skip this step for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches for crispy results.
• Neglecting seasoning: Ensure each layer, including the flour and breadcrumbs, is seasoned well. This enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
• Rushing the frying process: Allow enough time for each batch to fry until golden brown. Rushing can result in undercooked or oily chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This may make it less crispy.
• Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed, adding a touch of oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Bang Bang Chicken, you’re not alone. Here are some frequently asked questions.

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken features crispy fried chicken tenderloins drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce that makes it irresistible.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken healthier?

You can bake instead of fry the chicken or use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option while maintaining flavor.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Pair it with rice, salad, or steamed vegetables to create a complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

How do I customize my Bang Bang Chicken?

Feel free to adjust spice levels by adding more or less Sriracha to suit your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an appetizer for guests. Its crispy texture and flavorful sauce make it versatile and enjoyable. You can easily customize it by adjusting spice levels or serving it with various sides. Give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!