Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

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RECIPES

Bang Bang Chicken Recipe: The Crispy, Spicy Sensation You Need to Try!

Introduction: What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Okay, folks, let me tell you about my latest obsession—Bang Bang Chicken. It’s like the cooler, crunchier cousin of your classic fried chicken, with a twist that’ll keep you coming back for more. This dish is all about crispy fried chicken bites tossed in a creamy, spicy, and sweet sauce that packs a punch. Inspired by a popular dish from Asian cuisine, Bang Bang Chicken is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, an appetizer, or even party food. The flavor combo is absolutely out of this world, and the best part? It’s super easy to make at home!

Why Is Bang Bang Chicken So Great?

Bang Bang Chicken hits all the right notes: crispy texture, creamy sauce, and a sweet-heat flavor profile that’s incredibly addictive. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving a delicious snack, this dish is a real crowd-pleaser.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is for anyone who loves crispy fried chicken with a unique twist. If you’re a fan of spicy and sweet flavors with a bit of tang, you’ll love this dish. It’s perfect for beginner cooks because it’s easy to follow, but seasoned pros will appreciate the balance of flavors and the satisfying crunch.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s game night, a family dinner, or a casual weekend snack, Bang Bang Chicken fits the bill. You can serve it as an appetizer, a main course, or even as part of a larger spread.

Ingredients Overview

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish:

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for heat preference)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice (optional, for extra zing)

Key Ingredient Breakdown

  • Chicken Breast: The leaner choice that gets extra crispy when fried.
  • Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken and gives it that perfect coating when fried.
  • Cornstarch: Combined with flour for extra crispiness.
  • Sweet Chili Sauce and Sriracha: These provide the sweet-heat combo in the sauce that makes Bang Bang Chicken so irresistible.

Ingredient Swaps

  • If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
  • For a lighter version, bake the chicken instead of frying, and use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise in the sauce.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels (for draining)
  • Whisk

Step-by-Step Directions for Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with buttermilk, making sure they’re fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. This will make the chicken extra tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Coating

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This dry mixture will give the chicken that signature crispiness.

Step 3: Coat and Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Take each chicken piece out of the buttermilk and dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil and fry for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is frying, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a bowl. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice tolerance.

Step 5: Toss Chicken in Sauce

Once the chicken is done and slightly cooled, toss the crispy pieces in the Bang Bang sauce, making sure each piece is well-coated.

Notes and Tips for Success

How to Ensure Maximum Crispiness

  • Double-Coat the Chicken: For extra crispiness, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture twice, dipping it back into the buttermilk in between.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches so the temperature of the oil stays consistent, which ensures a crispy exterior.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not Marinating Long Enough: The buttermilk marinade is crucial for tender, juicy chicken. Don’t skip this step!
  • Oil Temperature Too Low: If your oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy. Use a thermometer to check that it’s at the right temperature.

Variations of Bang Bang Chicken

Baked Bang Bang Chicken

For a healthier option, bake the chicken instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Spicy Bang Bang Chicken

Want more heat? Add extra sriracha to the sauce or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also serve with a side of extra sriracha for those who like it hot!

Bang Bang Chicken Tacos

Turn this into a fun meal by adding Bang Bang Chicken to soft tortillas, along with shredded cabbage and a drizzle of extra sauce. Boom—Bang Bang Chicken tacos!

How to Store Leftovers

Proper Storage Methods

If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store the chicken and sauce separately to prevent sogginess. Keep the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce can be stored in a separate container for up to 1 week.

Reheating Tips

Reheat the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes to restore its crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it will make the chicken soggy.

Best Drink Pairings for Bang Bang Chicken

This spicy, flavorful dish pairs beautifully with refreshing drinks. Serve it with an ice-cold beer, lemonade, or even a light cocktail like a mojito. For non-alcoholic options, a cold glass of iced tea or sparkling water with lime is a perfect match.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

Serve Bang Bang Chicken with a side of jasmine rice, a fresh cucumber salad, or steamed veggies for a complete meal. It’s also great as part of a platter with fries and extra dipping sauce on the side.

Topping Ideas

Sprinkle the finished dish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra sweet chili sauce for added flair.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken is the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy. It’s a fun, crowd-pleasing dish that can be made in under an hour. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just enjoy a tasty meal at home, this recipe will hit the spot every time!

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FAQs

Is Bang Bang Chicken very spicy?

It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Can I use frozen chicken?

You can, but make sure to fully thaw and pat the chicken dry before marinating to get the best results.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil work well because they have a high smoke point.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead, but it’s best to fry the chicken right before serving for maximum crispiness.

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