Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking to turn up the heat and add some excitement to your dinner routine, this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Picture tender, crispy chicken bites cloaked in a creamy, spicy, sweet sauce that’s just bursting with both flavor and texture. This recipe takes only a handful of everyday ingredients, transforms them with a little sizzle, and rewards you with a dish that’s equal parts comfort food and crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for friends, family, or simply treating yourself, every bite is pure bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to the Bang Bang Chicken Recipe, the magic is in the simple, bold ingredients. Each one plays a key role, whether it’s adding crunch, heat, creaminess, or that little something special. Here’s what you’ll need to create this addictive chicken sensation at home.

• Mayonnaise: Brings a creamy foundation to the sauce, helping all the flavors blend together smoothly.
• Chili-garlic sauce: This packs heat and garlicky punch for that signature bang!
• Sriracha: Boosts the spice level with a tangy, bold backdrop.
• Honey: Balances out the heat and acidity with a gentle sweetness.
• Cayenne or smoked paprika: Choose cayenne for fiery warmth, or smoked paprika for mellower, smokier notes.
• Lemon juice: A splash perks up the sauce with freshness and zing.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for rounding out all the other flavors—season to your taste preference!
• Chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces—these become juicy, tender morsels after frying.
• Buttermilk or milk: Soaks the chicken, keeping it juicy and helping the coating stick.
• Cornstarch: Delivers the ultra-crispy, light crust you crave in every bite.
• Cayenne or smoked paprika (again): Season the coating for extra flavor—use both for a complex twist.
• Vegetable oil: The frying medium that gives your chicken its irresistible crunch.
• Fresh chopped parsley: Bright, herbal, and adds a pop of green to the final dish.
• Spicy chili flakes: For a little fiery confetti atop your masterpiece.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Bang Bang Sauce

Start by making the heart of the dish—the Bang Bang Sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chili-garlic sauce, sriracha, honey, cayenne (or smoked paprika), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until completely smooth and blended. This sauce is the harmonious blend of creamy, spicy, and sweet you’re going to crave, so take a little taste and adjust the heat, salt, or sweetness to your liking. Cover and pop it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use, letting those flavors mingle and deepen.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oil

Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a wide, heavy-bottomed pot and heat it up to 375 degrees F. Don’t skip the thermometer if you have one—it ensures your chicken cooks up super crispy and not greasy. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop in a pinch of flour. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough and ready for action.

Step 3: Soak the Chicken

Place the chopped chicken breast pieces in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk (or milk) over the top. Toss well so each piece is coated, and let it soak for a few minutes. This step not only helps the cornstarch coating stick, but also keeps the chicken super juicy on the inside after frying.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, another round of cayenne (or smoked paprika), plus a bit of salt and pepper. One by one, remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, shaking off any extra, and dredge them in the seasoned cornstarch until well-coated on all sides. This is where you start imagining how crispy they’ll get!

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully drop your coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid crowding. Fry each piece for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they’re golden, crispy, and cooked through. The crust should have that beautiful light crackle when you tap it. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil.

Step 6: Toss and Garnish

While the chicken is still hot, transfer it to a large bowl and drizzle over your chilled Bang Bang Sauce. Toss until every piece is gleaming, then finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and spicy chili flakes. The zippy sauce coating paired with bright herbs makes each bite irresistible.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A fresh flourish makes all the difference. Scatter plenty of chopped parsley and a pinch of chili flakes over your Bang Bang Chicken Recipe just before serving. Not only do these garnishes add pop and visual appeal, but they bring a little extra flavor and heat that puts this dish over the top.

Side Dishes

Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Recipe with fluffy white rice, cool cucumber salad, or some crisp shredded lettuce cups to balance out the spice. Roasted veggies and simple fried rice play well here, turning the dish into a full and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get playful! Try serving the chicken skewered on appetizer sticks for a party platter, or pile it into soft steamed buns for a killer sandwich. Bang Bang Chicken also makes a fabulous topping for a bold Asian-inspired salad, or even as a crunchy-sticky taco filling for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Bang Bang Chicken Recipe tasting fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken is at its crispest the day it’s made, but leftovers will stay good for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want to make extra, freeze the cooked, undressed chicken pieces in a single layer on a sheet tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating. Avoid freezing the sauce, as it might separate.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, reheat leftover chicken in a 375-degree F oven or air fryer for several minutes until hot and crunchy. Once warmed, toss with fresh Bangkok Bang Chicken sauce and enjoy your revived, saucy bites.

FAQs

Can I make this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and slightly more flavorful, making them a perfect swap in this recipe. Just chop them into similar bite-sized pieces and follow the instructions as written.

Is there a dairy-free option for the buttermilk soak?

Yes, you can use any unsweetened non-dairy milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the tang of buttermilk. This works well to keep the chicken moist and juicy for your Bang Bang Chicken Recipe.

How spicy is this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe?

It’s got a definite kick, but the heat can be totally customized. Use less sriracha and swap cayenne for smoked paprika if you prefer a milder experience, or amp it up if you’re a chili-lover!

Can I bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep frying?

Definitely! For a lighter version, arrange the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet, spray them lightly with oil, and bake at 425 degrees F until crispy, about 15-20 minutes. The air fryer produces especially crunchy results—just cook in a single layer at 400 degrees F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway.

Is the Bang Bang Chicken Recipe gluten free?

Yes, as long as you use pure cornstarch and double-check that your sauces are gluten-free (some brands add wheat!), this recipe is naturally gluten free and friendly for those with dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

Once you make this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe at home, you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite on restaurant menus everywhere—and why it deserves a spot in your own kitchen. With its irresistible combination of crispy, creamy, spicy, and sweet, every bite is pure comfort and joy. Roll up your sleeves and give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!

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