Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe features golden fried chicken tenderloins coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs and served with a creamy, sweet-spicy bang bang sauce. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or simply craving a flavorful meal, this dish will impress. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it stand out, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 26 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha creates a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly complements the crispy chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy Bang Bang Chicken as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a sandwich.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the crunchy texture and the sweet-spicy flavor profile.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish holds up well in the refrigerator, making it great for leftovers or meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for frying your chicken evenly and achieving that golden-brown color.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess and keeping things organized.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping chicken pieces without losing their coating.

Ingredients

Golden fried chicken tenderloins coated in crispy panko breadcrumbs and served with a creamy, sweet-spicy bang bang sauce.

For the Sauce

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

For the Chicken

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until well mixed. Adjust Sriracha to taste if you prefer more heat.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha for batter, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken tenderloins to this mixture and coat them thoroughly.

Step 3: Dredge in Panko

Remove each piece of chicken from the batter. Dredge them in panko breadcrumbs while pressing gently to ensure they adhere well.

Step 4: Heat Oil

Pour canola oil into a large skillet until it’s about 1 inch deep. Heat the oil to around 365°F.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 6: Drain and Toss with Sauce

Once cooked, remove chicken from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Toss them in the prepared bang bang sauce before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Chicken!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightfully crispy and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a casual meal or something more upscale, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the crispy Bang Bang Chicken on a bed of steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
• Pair it with a fresh garden salad topped with sesame dressing for a light option.

In Tacos

• Use warm tortillas to wrap pieces of chicken, adding fresh vegetables like shredded cabbage and avocado for crunch.
• Drizzle additional bang bang sauce on top for an extra kick.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a selection of sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese, alongside the bang bang sauce for varied flavors.
• Create a fun appetizer platter with small portions of chicken and dipping options.

Over Noodles

• Place the fried chicken over a bowl of noodles, tossing everything in the bang bang sauce for a delicious fusion dish.
• Add sautéed vegetables for added color and nutrition.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use cold buttermilk: This helps tenderize the chicken and gives it that sought-after juiciness.
• Double dip: For extra crunch, dip the chicken in flour, then in batter, and back into panko before frying.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keep oil at 365°F to achieve that golden brown crust without sogginess.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Rest before serving: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying allows excess oil to drain off.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting contrast.
2. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted or sautéed Brussels sprouts add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the spiciness of the chicken while adding freshness.
4. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice makes an excellent base that absorbs the savory sauce beautifully.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can enhance your meal’s sweetness, offering a nice balance to the spice.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies adds nutrients and fiber, making it an ideal side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your Bang Bang Chicken turns out perfectly every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken in buttermilk can lead to dry meat. Always allow the chicken to soak for at least 30 minutes for tenderness.

• Using too much oil: Overcrowding the skillet with chicken can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy pieces. Fry in small batches to maintain that crispy texture.

• Not pressing the panko: Failing to press the panko onto the chicken will cause it to fall off during frying. Make sure to firmly press the crumbs onto each piece before cooking.

• Ignoring temperature: Cooking chicken without checking the internal temperature can be unsafe. Always aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for properly cooked chicken.

• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping spices or not seasoning adequately can make your dish bland. Don’t forget to season both the batter and the chicken for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Refrain from adding sauce until ready to eat to maintain crispiness.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, checking regularly. This may make it less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat and re-crisp each side for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a delicious dish featuring crispy fried chicken tenders tossed in a sweet-spicy sauce, perfect as an appetizer or main course.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of Sriracha used in both the sauce and batter. It’s generally mild with a sweet kick!

What sides pair well with Bang Bang Chicken?

Pair this dish with steamed rice, coleslaw, or a fresh salad to balance its flavors and add texture.

Can I use different proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp or tofu if you want a different protein option while keeping that delightful bang bang flavor.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will please any crowd. With its crispy coating and creamy sauce, it’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adjusting spice levels or trying different proteins. Enjoy your cooking adventure!