You wouldn’t believe how a single dish can transform a weeknight dinner into something extraordinary! I recently stumbled upon this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe, and it’s become my go-to for easy, flavorful meals that the whole family adores. With a crunchy, golden crust and a spicy Bang Bang sauce that packs a punch, this dish is not only quick to whip up, but it’s also versatile—perfect for experimenting with shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower if you’re feeling adventurous. The best part? It’s gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a smart choice for everyone at the table. So, if you’re ready to elevate your dinner game and say goodbye to fast food, keep reading to learn how to make this irresistible favorite! What protein would you choose for your Bang Bang twist?
What Makes Bang Bang Chicken Unique?
Crispy Texture: The delightful crunch of panko breadcrumbs creates a satisfying texture that everyone will love.
Spicy Kick: The combination of Sriracha and Thai sweet chili sauce delivers a flavor explosion, perfect for those who crave a bit of heat!
Versatile Options: Easily substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower for a delightful twist that fits various dietary preferences, like in my delicious Zesty Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl.
Quick Preparation: This recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights, taking less than 30 minutes from prep to plate, especially when paired with easy sides like jasmine rice or sweet potato fries.
Family Favorite: Its bold flavors and fun presentation make it ideal for gathering around the dinner table, ensuring smiles all around.
If you enjoy hearty, satisfying meals like this, don’t miss trying out my Lemon Butter Chicken for another home-run recipe!
Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Base for the sauce, providing creaminess; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweetness and a hint of spice; regular chili sauce can be used if Thai sauce isn’t available.
- Sriracha Sauce – Introduces heat to the sauce; adjust quantity to control spice level.
- Honey – Sweetens the sauce; substitute maple syrup for a vegan option.
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – Primary protein, ensuring tenderness; alternative proteins include shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower for your Bang Bang twist.
- Buttermilk – Marinates chicken for tenderness; can substitute regular milk with a splash of vinegar to create a DIY version.
- All-purpose Flour – Provides structure for the breading; gluten-free blends can be used as an alternative.
- Cornstarch – Coats the chicken for extra crunch.
- Egg – Binds the breading; can be omitted in egg-free diets.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy exterior; substitute regular breadcrumbs if needed.
- Canola Oil – For frying; any neutral oil can be substituted.
For Garnish
- Chopped Parsley – For garnish; optional if not available.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This will create a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce that adds flavor to your crispy chicken. Once ready, set the sauce aside so the flavors can meld while you prepare the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, garlic powder, Sriracha, salt, and black pepper. Add the boneless skinless chicken tenderloins to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for about 10 minutes; this will help make your Bang Bang Chicken tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Coat Chicken
After marinating, remove the chicken tenderloins from the mixture and let the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure even coverage for that delightful crunch. This step is crucial as it gives your Bang Bang Chicken its signature crispy texture.
Step 4: Fry Chicken
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Carefully add the coated chicken tenderloins to the skillet in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Drain & Toss
Once the chicken is fried to perfection, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet. Place the crispy Bang Bang Chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil, which helps maintain its crunch. While still hot, toss the chicken in the prepared Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated and wonderfully flavorful.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the coated chicken to a serving platter and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an appealing presentation. Serve your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken warm, allowing everyone to enjoy the exciting blend of crunch and spice. This dish pairs beautifully with rice or fresh veggies for a complete meal.
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
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Room Temperature: Enjoy the Bang Bang Chicken fresh for the best texture and flavor. If left out, it can be stored for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to restore the crispy texture before serving.
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Freezer: Freeze extra Bang Bang Chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container, and keep for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: To reheat frozen chicken, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Transform your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken into a memorable feast with these delightful accompaniments that enhance its zesty flavors and textures.
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Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice is the perfect base to soak up the bold sesame flavors of your Bang Bang Chicken.
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Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, a simple cucumber salad brings a cool contrast to the spicy and crispy chicken, balancing the meal beautifully.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that wonderfully complements the savory Bang Bang Chicken.
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Mango Salsa: Bright and fruity, mango salsa provides a sweet-tangy burst that enhances the dish’s spice while adding vibrant color to your plate.
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Grilled Asparagus: Charred and lightly seasoned, grilled asparagus introduces a wonderful crunch and earthy flavor, offering a nutritious addition to your meal.
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Cold Beer or Sweet Tea: Pair your meal with a refreshing beer or a glass of sweet tea for a perfect balance of flavors that’ll elevate your dining experience.
Each of these sides creates a harmonious dining experience, ensuring that your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken steals the show while beautifully supported by enticing flavors and textures.
Bang Bang Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize your Bang Bang Chicken for a flavor experience that fits your taste buds!
- Shrimp Substitute: Replace chicken with shrimp for a delightful twist that cooks in no time.
- Tofu Choice: Swap in firm tofu for a vegetarian version that soaks up all that delicious sauce.
- Cauliflower Option: For a gluten-free treat, use cauliflower florets, offering a great crunch and flavor.
- Spice it Up: Spice up your sauce by adding diced jalapeños for an extra kick or increasing Sriracha.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for a creamy and nutty depth.
- Sesame Aroma: Enhance your dish’s authenticity with a teaspoon of sesame oil to the sauce.
- Sweet Swaps: Use maple syrup in place of honey for a vegan-friendly sweetness in your sauce.
- Crispy Alternatives: If panko isn’t available, regular breadcrumbs can be used to achieve a similar crunch.
Want more mouthwatering ideas? Try pairing this with my delightful Rosemary Chicken Meatballs for a different family favorite!
Expert Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
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Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil at exactly 365°F for optimal crispiness; if it’s too cool, the coating may become soggy.
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Even Coating: Ensure you coat the chicken evenly in panko breadcrumbs; this crucial step enhances the crunchiness of your Bang Bang Chicken.
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Marinating Time: Allow at least 10 minutes for marinating; this helps the chicken absorb flavor and ensures it remains tender.
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Draining Technique: After frying, drain the chicken on paper towels immediately to keep the crispy texture intact.
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Mixing Spice Levels: Adjust Sriracha in the sauce according to your preferred heat level; feel free to add more for a spicier Bang Bang Chicken!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken tenderloins up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate, making the chicken even more tender. Furthermore, the Bang Bang sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead, just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply dredge the marinated chicken in panko breadcrumbs and fry until golden. This not only cuts down on meal prep chaos but also ensures your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is just as delicious when it’s time to serve!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chicken for my Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! When picking chicken tenderloins, look for pieces that are uniform in size, so they cook evenly. Choose tenders that are pale pink, without dark spots or an off smell. Fresh chicken should not feel slimy. If you’re considering alternatives like shrimp, ensure they’re firm and glossy; for tofu, pick extra-firm variety, and for cauliflower, aim for fresh heads without browning.
How should I store my leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Very good question! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best if you reheat them in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, which helps restore that delightful crispy texture. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a solid option!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Bang Bang Chicken, lay the cooked nuggets in a single layer on a baking sheet first, so they don’t stick together. Once they’re frozen solid (which takes about 1-2 hours), transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for best results.
What if my Bang Bang Chicken isn’t crispy enough?
Don’t worry, this happens to the best of us! Ensure the oil temperature remains at 365°F as you fry, as lower temperatures will lead to sogginess. If your chicken doesn’t crisp up despite proper frying, consider dredging it again in panko after the initial marination or cooking in smaller batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature.
Are there any dietary considerations for making Bang Bang Chicken?
Certainly! This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free flour and panko. For dairy-free options, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, and for the buttermilk, you can create a non-dairy version with almond milk and a splash of vinegar. Always double-check ingredient labels if you or your family have allergies.
How long can I marinate the chicken for extra flavor?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator! This longer marination enhances the flavors and keeps the chicken juicy. Just remember to always cover your marinating bowl to avoid any contamination. Enjoy your cooking adventures with this easy, family-loved recipe!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken That Will Change Dinner Forever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, garlic powder, Sriracha, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins and let them marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure even coverage.
- Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Fry coated chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove chicken and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil. Toss in the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
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