Picture this: the tantalizing aroma of crispy chicken wafts through your kitchen, transporting you to a bustling Asian fusion restaurant without having to leave home. That’s the magic of Bang Bang Chicken! I first discovered this dish during a cozy dinner with friends, and it quickly became a favorite. With its perfectly panko-crusted tenderloins drizzled in a creamy, homemade bang bang sauce that tantalizes both the sweet and spicy taste buds, it’s hard not to fall in love with every bite.
What I adore about this recipe is not just its incredible flavor, but also how effortlessly it can be made! Whether you’re frying, air frying, or even baking, you can have this crowd-pleaser on the table in no time. Trust me, it’s the ultimate solution for those monotonous weeknight dinners or a last-minute appetizer for unexpected guests. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with this quick, crispy delight—your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Bang Bang Chicken a Must-Try?
Irresistible Crunch: The panko-crusted chicken offers a delightful crunch that transforms ordinary chicken into a gourmet experience.
Flavor Explosion: With a perfect balance of sweet and spicy in the homemade bang bang sauce, each bite is an explosion of flavor.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something special without the hassle.
Versatile Options: Enjoy it with shrimp or salmon using the same delicious sauce for a variety of homemade meals.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for entertaining, this dish will impress family and friends, making it a go-to for gatherings.
Plus, if you’re looking for even more easy-to-make meals, be sure to check out my collection of quick dinner recipes.
Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
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For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and base flavor; can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides sweetness and spice; honey can be used for sweetness if not available.
• Sriracha – Infuses heat; adjust to taste for your desired spice level.
• Honey – A touch of sweetness to balance flavors; agave syrup can serve as an alternative. -
For the Chicken
• Chicken Tenderloins – The main protein; tender and ideal for frying; can use chicken breasts cut into strips.
• Buttermilk – Moistens and helps the breading adhere; a mix of milk and lemon juice can substitute.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the breading; gluten-free flour is a suitable alternative.
• Cornstarch – Enhances crunchiness; can be omitted if desired, though texture may vary.
• Large Egg – Binds the batter and helps with coating; a flax egg works for a vegan option.
• Garlic Powder – Adds savory flavor; fresh garlic can be adjusted for taste.
• Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne Pepper – Seasoning for the batter; adjust spices according to preference.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a light, crispy crust; regular breadcrumbs can be used but will alter texture. -
For Frying and Garnish
• Canola Oil – Necessary for achieving crispiness when frying; vegetable oil works interchangeably.
• Parsley – For garnish; adds color and freshness; can be omitted if desired.
This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and become a regular favorite in your household!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken
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Prepare Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. Set this creamy delight aside to let the flavors meld together.
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Coat Chicken: In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, and seasonings until well combined. Toss the chicken tenderloins in this mixture until they are thoroughly coated.
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Prepare Breading: Spread panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. Take each coated chicken tender and dredge it in the panko, pressing lightly to help the crumbs stick and create that irresistible crunch.
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Fry Chicken: Heat canola oil in a skillet to 365°F (185°C). Fry the chicken in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Drain and Serve: Carefully transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Toss the crispy tenders in the prepared bang bang sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve warm to enjoy every delectable bite.
Optional: Serve with vegetable sticks or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Chicken tenderloins are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk and spices up to 24 hours in advance, which tenderizes the meat and infuses flavor. Additionally, whip up the bang bang sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; the flavors only get better as they meld. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the chicken in the flour mixture and panko breadcrumbs before frying them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy. To maintain their crunchiness, avoid frying too many at once and keep any leftovers stored in an airtight container. Enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
Transform your delightful Bang Bang Chicken into a complete meal with the perfect side dishes to accompany it.
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Crispy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken, enhancing every bite.
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Steamed Broccoli: The tender green florets provide a healthy option that’s mild in flavor, balancing out the richness of the sauce.
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Garlic Fried Rice: Infuse some extra flavor with aromatic garlic and rice; it’s a wonderful base for soaking up any leftover bang bang sauce.
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Zesty Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette introduce a fresh, cool element that complements the dish beautifully.
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Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of bell peppers and snap peas brings vibrant flavors and textures that enhance the meal visually and nutritionally.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and soft texture of sweet potato fries pair well, providing a satisfying contrast to the crispy chicken.
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Craft Beer or Sparkling Water: A chilled craft beer balances the spicy notes, while sparkling water cleanses the palate between bites.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy mousse serves as a sweet finish, contrasting with the savory notes of the meal.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
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Temperature Check: Ensure the oil reaches 365°F before frying. A well-heated oil prevents greasiness and helps achieve that perfect, crispy bang bang chicken texture.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry chicken in batches to maintain oil temperature. Overcrowding the pan can result in uneven cooking and a soggy finish.
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Coat Thoroughly: For a satisfying crunch, ensure each chicken tender is entirely coated in the buttermilk mixture before dredging in panko breadcrumbs. This creates a thicker, more flavorful crust.
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Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the spice levels in the bang bang sauce. If you love heat, add an extra squeeze of Sriracha for that extra kick!
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Leftover Storage: Store any leftover bang bang chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the coating crispy.
Bang Bang Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk for a dairy-free milk mixed with lemon juice. This keeps it creamy without any dairy.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs to ensure everyone can enjoy the crispy goodness without worry.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of Sriracha in the bang bang sauce for those who crave an extra layer of heat—just remember to taste as you go!
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Veggie Delight: Try breading and frying cauliflower or zucchini strips using the same batter. They offer a delightful twist with that familiar crunch.
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Alternative Proteins: Use shrimp or salmon instead of chicken! Just adjust frying times accordingly—shrimp cook faster, while salmon needs a few extra minutes.
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Baking Method: Want a healthier option? Arrange the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll still get that crunch!
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Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like dill or cilantro into the panko breadcrumbs for an aromatic twist that adds freshness to every bite.
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Sweetener Swap: If you prefer a different sweetener, feel free to use maple syrup in the sauce instead of honey or agave for a rich flavor profile.
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
Fridge: Store cooled Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will maintain its flavor and texture for your next meal.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags. Perfectly preserved for up to 6 months!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the coating stays crispy. Avoid microwaving to keep that delightful crunch intact.
Wrapping: Wrap any leftovers tightly in foil before refrigeration to prevent moisture loss and preserve the crispy coating of your Bang Bang Chicken!
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken tenderloins?
Absolutely! Look for chicken tenderloins that are moist and firm to the touch, with a pinkish color. Avoid any that are slimy or have dark spots all over, as they may not be fresh. If tenderloins are not available, you can substitute with chicken breasts cut into strips for a similar result.
What are the best ways to store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
After allowing your Bang Bang Chicken to cool, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap in foil or place it in freezer bags and freeze for up to 6 months. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes for best texture. Avoid microwaving to maintain that crispy coating!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Bang Bang Chicken! For optimal results, lay the breaded chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer until frozen solid. Then transfer to freezer bags, squeezing out any excess air. This method helps preserve the crunch for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake straight from the freezer, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
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How can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?
Very simply! Substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and replace panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed cornflakes for the crunchy coating. You can also ensure your sauces are gluten-free by checking the labels, especially on the Thai sweet chili sauce.
What should I do if my chicken is soggy after frying?
The more the merrier—this can happen if the oil isn’t hot enough when frying! Make sure to heat the oil to 365°F before adding the chicken to ensure a golden brown, crispy finish. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to sogginess. Fry in batches if necessary for perfect results.
Can I use Bang Bang Sauce on other proteins?
Absolutely! The beauty of this Bang Bang sauce is its versatility. It’s delightful drizzled over shrimp, salmon, or even as a dipping sauce for skewers! Simply follow the same breading technique and cooking methods for a delicious twist on your favorite proteins. Enjoy the diverse flavor with different dishes!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Homemade Sauce Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. Set this creamy delight aside to let the flavors meld together.
- In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, and seasonings until well combined. Toss the chicken tenderloins in this mixture until they are thoroughly coated.
- Spread panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. Take each coated chicken tender and dredge it in the panko, pressing lightly to help the crumbs stick.
- Heat canola oil in a skillet to 365°F (185°C). Fry the chicken in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Carefully transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Toss the crispy tenders in the prepared bang bang sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.