Why Make This Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken is a delicious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. It features crispy chicken coated in a spicy and sweet sauce. This recipe is easy to make at home, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of flavors will leave everyone coming back for more!

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Ingredients

1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
2 tablespoons honey
1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
1 cup (245 g) buttermilk
¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (64 g) cornstarch
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 tablespoon Sriracha
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs (plain)
Canola oil (for frying)
Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

First, make the Bang Bang sauce. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Set aside.
In another bowl, add the buttermilk. Place the chicken tenderloins into the buttermilk and let them soak for about 30 minutes.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
In another bowl, beat the egg and add the tablespoon of Sriracha. Mix well.
After the chicken has soaked, take it out and let the excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture first, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Heat canola oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces to the hot oil and fry until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
Toss the cooked chicken in the Bang Bang sauce until well coated. Serve it hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is best served immediately while it’s still hot and crispy. You can serve it over a bed of rice or alongside your favorite vegetables. It also makes a great appetizer when served with extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping.

How to Store Bang Bang Chicken

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven or air fryer to regain its crispiness.

Tips to Make Bang Bang Chicken

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight if you have the time.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure the chicken gets crispy.
Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to control the spice level according to your taste.

Variation

You can switch out the chicken tenderloins for shrimp or tofu for a different twist. Adjust the cooking times as needed.

FAQs

Can I bake Bang Bang Chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake it! Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and spray with cooking oil. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes until crispy.

Is Bang Bang Chicken spicy?
It has a mild spice level, but you can add more Sriracha if you prefer it spicier.

Can I make Bang Bang Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Bang Bang Chicken