Bang Bang Chicken is a delicious combination of crispy fried chicken bites coated in a bold, sweet, and spicy sauce. The contrast between the crunchy chicken and the creamy, tangy sauce makes each bite an explosion of flavor. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner, party appetizer, or finger food for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, Bang Bang Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. The sauce can be adjusted to your liking—milder for those who prefer a gentle kick or extra spicy for heat lovers. Serve it as is, with a side of rice, or over a salad for a refreshing twist!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional for a tangy kick)
Directions:
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with buttermilk, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).
- Prepare Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice (if using). Adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your desired spice level. Set aside.
- Coat Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk and coat them thoroughly in cornstarch. Shake off any excess.
- Fry Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Combine: Toss the fried chicken pieces with the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time) | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating)
Kcal: Approx. 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a popular dish that has a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The dish features tender, marinated chicken strips that are fried to perfection, making them crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. What sets it apart is the signature “bang bang” sauce—a creamy blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. The sauce is made using mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey, resulting in a smooth yet punchy finish.
Origins and Culinary Influence
The origins of Bang Bang Chicken can be traced back to the Sichuan region of China, where a traditional dish called “Bang Bang Ji” (棒棒鸡) was a staple. The name “Bang Bang” refers to the pounding sound made when a wooden mallet is used to tenderize or shred the chicken. The original Bang Bang Chicken was typically served cold, topped with a spicy sesame paste sauce.
Cooking Tips:
- Temperature Control: Maintain a steady oil temperature of around 350°F (175°C) to prevent the chicken from becoming greasy.
- Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a splash of milk or water. For a thicker sauce, increase the amount of mayonnaise.
- Spice Level: Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of sriracha. If you want extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Serving Ideas: This Bang Bang Chicken pairs perfectly with a simple side salad, steamed white rice, or even as a filling for wraps and sandwiches.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 17g
- Sodium: 450mg
This nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
Serving Suggestions:
Bang Bang Chicken is versatile and can be served in several ways:
- As a Main Dish: Serve over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or with a side of roasted vegetables.
- As an Appetizer: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces before frying, and serve with toothpicks for dipping.
- In a Salad: Place the fried chicken strips over a fresh green salad, drizzle with some of the sauce, and enjoy a crispy, refreshing meal.
- In Wraps or Sandwiches: Use the fried chicken and sauce as a filling for wraps or sandwiches with some shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Place leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To maintain the crispiness, reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the coating soggy.
Recipe Variations:
- Make it Healthier: For a lighter version, bake the chicken in the oven instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Add Veggies: Mix in some steamed or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and crunch.
- Spicy Level: Increase the heat by adding more sriracha or some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving in terms of cooking time, making them an excellent choice for this recipe.
- Is there a gluten-free version?
- Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornstarch and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can fry the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead. Store them separately and reheat the chicken in the oven before serving.
- What can I use as a substitute for buttermilk?
- You can use regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for buttermilk.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
Bang Bang Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that effortlessly combines crispy fried chicken with a bold, creamy sauce that’s both sweet and spicy. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a dish to impress guests. With its origins rooted in Asian cuisine and a modern twist that makes it versatile and accessible, this recipe brings out the best of fusion flavors.