Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Are you ready to discover the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe that will make your taste buds dance with joy? Imagine tender chicken bites coated in a light, crispy batter, drizzled with a sweet, spicy, and creamy bang bang sauce. Whether you’re hosting friends or preparing a cozy dinner for the family, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Keep reading to learn how to create this sensational Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe in your own kitchen, step by step. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
This recipe has it all—crispy, juicy chicken combined with a sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet heat and creamy goodness. It’s:
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- A crowd-pleaser for gatherings, potlucks, or game nights.
- Customizable to suit your spice preference.
- Great as an appetizer or main course.
- Irresistibly delicious your guests will beg for the recipe!
What Does Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Taste Like?
The combination of flavors in this dish is out of this world! The chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and pairs beautifully with the bang bang sauce. The sauce is a fusion of creamy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of heat from sriracha, creating a tangy, sweet, and spicy profile that tantalizes every taste bud.
Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering dish:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 1 tbsp honey
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Deep fryer or large skillet
- Tongs
- Baking sheet with paper towels
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a crispy coating for the chicken.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, shaking off excess, and dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Ensure an even coating for maximum crispiness.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per batch. Place cooked chicken on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. Adjust spice levels as needed.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Drizzle the sauce over the crispy chicken or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Pair this flavorful chicken with:
- Steamed white rice or fried rice for a hearty meal.
- A fresh green salad to balance the richness.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus.
- French fries or sweet potato fries for a classic comfort food combo.
Tips for Making the Best Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
- Marinate for maximum flavor: The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, so don’t skip this step.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent.
- Double-dip for extra crispiness: Repeat the coating process for an even crunchier texture.
- Serve immediately: The chicken is best when fresh and crispy.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat the chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I bake instead of fry the chicken?
Yes, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative, like rice flour or almond flour, for a gluten-free version.
3. How spicy is the bang bang sauce?
The sauce has a mild to medium heat level. Adjust the sriracha to your taste for more or less spice.
4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and work just as well in this recipe.
5. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe is a showstopper that delivers bold flavors and satisfying crunch in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a party or a cozy night at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the magic of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken—a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!