Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that combines crispy goodness with a sweet and spicy kick, then you’re in for a treat with Bang Bang Chicken! This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in our household. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s great for gatherings, bringing everyone together to enjoy that delightful crunch and flavor.

What makes this Bang Bang Chicken special is not just the crispy panko crust but also the homemade bang bang sauce that ties everything together. You can whip it up in just 26 minutes, making it an excellent choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Hearty and flavorful, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Potential: Prep the chicken ahead of time for those busy days when you need a quick meal.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha creates a party of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this amazing dish! You’ll find everything you need right here, making your shopping trip easy and stress-free.

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)

Variations

This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few ideas to switch things up based on what you have at home or your mood:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken breasts or even shrimp instead of tenderloins for a different texture.
• Make it spicy: Increase the Sriracha or add chopped fresh chilies to amp up the heat!
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with their gluten-free counterparts.
• Add some crunch: Toss in finely chopped nuts like cashews or almonds for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing together your sauce ingredients: mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. This step is crucial because it brings all those beautiful flavors together into one creamy blend. Set aside some sauce for drizzling later!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, soak your chicken tenderloins in buttermilk for about 10 minutes. This helps keep them juicy and tender while enhancing their flavor. Don’t skip this step; it’s key to achieving that perfect texture!

Step 3: Breading Station

Prepare your breading station by combining flour, cornstarch, egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne in separate bowls. Each element adds its own touch—flour gives structure while panko provides that satisfying crunch.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each marinated chicken piece first in flour mix, then dip it into egg batter before coating with panko breadcrumbs. Make sure every inch is covered! This layering ensures an extra crispy finish when fried.

Step 5: Frying Time!

In a large pan over medium-high heat, pour enough canola oil to cover the bottom. Fry each piece until golden brown—about 3 minutes per side. This is where the magic happens; watch as they turn into crispy perfection!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once cooked through and beautifully golden brown, remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Drizzle with your reserved bang bang sauce and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Getting the perfect crispy texture and flavor in your Bang Bang Chicken is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to help you achieve that restaurant-quality dish right at home.

• Use fresh chicken tenderloins: Fresh chicken will give you the best flavor and texture. Frozen chicken can lead to excess moisture, which can affect the crispiness of your coating.

• Let the chicken marinate: Allowing the tenderloins to soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) not only tenderizes the meat but also helps the coating stick better.

• Double-dip for extra crunch: For a thicker, crunchier crust, dip each tenderloin in flour, then in the egg mixture, and back into the flour before coating with panko breadcrumbs. This creates multiple layers that crisp up beautifully when fried.

• Maintain oil temperature: Keeping your frying oil at around 350°F (175°C) will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that golden brown color without absorbing too much oil.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Work in batches to keep everything crispy!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is not just a feast for your taste buds; it’s also a treat for the eyes! Presenting this dish beautifully will impress your family or guests and make every bite even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the dish perfectly.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and an appealing crunch that enhances both texture and visual appeal.
• Green onions: Thinly sliced green onions bring a mild onion flavor and vibrant color, making your plate look elegant.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Asian slaw: This crunchy salad made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds freshness and balances the richness of the chicken.
• Steamed jasmine rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is a classic pairing that soaks up the delicious bang bang sauce, making each bite satisfying.
• Roasted vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas add nutrition and vibrant colors to your meal while providing a healthy balance.
• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of Bang Bang Chicken.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to create a delightful meal that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every crispy bite of your homemade Bang Bang Chicken!

Make Ahead and Storage

Bang Bang Chicken is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making your meals quick and easy.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely.
• Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil until crispy again.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Chicken that might help you out!

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. There are many great options available that will work just as well!

How can I adjust the spice level of my Bang Bang Chicken?

You can easily adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of Sriracha you use. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat and add more to taste.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins for Bang Bang Chicken?

Yes! You can certainly use boneless skinless chicken breasts. Just slice them into strips similar to tenderloins for even cooking.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or rice. You could also enjoy it on its own as a tasty snack!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this delightful Bang Bang Chicken! It’s such a fun and flavorful dish that can brighten up any meal. I can’t wait for you to experience its crispy texture and zesty bang bang sauce. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!