Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that’s sure to impress, let me introduce you to Bang Bang Chicken! This delightful recipe features panko-crusted chicken tenderloins that are fried to a crispy golden brown and topped with a creamy homemade sauce that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious or at family gatherings that call for a crowd-pleaser. Once you try it, you’ll see why this dish has become a beloved favorite in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, Bang Bang Chicken is ideal for those evenings when you need dinner on the table fast.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the crunchy coating and zesty sauce—making it a hit at any meal!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep the chicken and the sauce ahead of time. Just fry them up when you’re ready to eat!
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as an appetizer or make it the star of your dinner table—either way, it shines!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and easy to find at your local grocery store. Gather them up so we can get started on this tasty journey together!

For the Sauce

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

For the Chicken

• 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)
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about Bang Bang Chicken is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist that’s just as tasty.
• Change up the spice level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in both the sauce and breading to suit your heat preference.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like peanuts or almonds into the panko for an extra layer of texture.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor!

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk until smooth. This sauce is not only easy to whip up but also adds a creamy zing that perfectly complements our crispy chicken. Set it aside while we prep everything else.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken tenderloins in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes. Marinating in buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken while adding flavor—a crucial step for juicy results!

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like some heat. In another bowl, whisk together an egg with a tablespoon of Sriracha. Finally, place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl. This three-step process ensures our chicken gets an irresistible coating.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Take each marinated tenderloin and dip it first into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and finally coat it generously with panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so they stick well. This triple-dipping technique creates that beautifully crispy exterior we all love.

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

In a deep skillet or fryer, heat canola oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add your breaded chicken pieces in batches without overcrowding. Fry each side for about 3 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Cooking them nice and evenly will give you that perfect crunch!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Once cooked, remove your Bang Bang Chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels. Drizzle your delicious homemade bang bang sauce over each piece and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot for an unforgettable treat!

And there you have it—your very own Bang Bang Chicken ready to delight friends and family! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Making Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful experience, and a few pro tips can elevate your dish to restaurant-quality!

• Use fresh chicken: Fresh chicken tenderloins will yield the best flavor and texture. Frozen chicken may result in a slightly soggier coating after frying.

• Double-dip for extra crunch: For an even crispier exterior, dip the chicken tenderloins in the flour mixture twice before coating them with panko breadcrumbs. This extra layer helps create that satisfying crunch we all love!

• Monitor oil temperature: Keep your oil at around 350°F (175°C) while frying. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn while the inside remains raw; too cool, and you’ll end up with greasy chicken instead of crispy bites.

• Drain properly: After frying, place your Bang Bang Chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet instead of paper towels. This allows air to circulate around the chicken and keeps it crispy.

• Adjust the sauce to your liking: Feel free to tweak the bang bang sauce to suit your taste buds! Want it spicier? Add more Sriracha. Prefer it sweeter? Increase the honey.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting it beautifully can enhance your dining experience and impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds bring a nutty flavor and lovely texture that complements the crunchy chicken.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Asian slaw: A vibrant mix of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers dressed in a tangy vinaigrette adds crunch and balances the richness of the fried chicken.
• Steamed jasmine rice: Fluffy jasmine rice serves as a perfect base for soaking up the delicious bang bang sauce.
• Grilled vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color, flavor, and nutrients to your meal.
• Sweet potato fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the dish while offering a delightful twist on traditional fries.

Enjoy crafting this mouthwatering dish! Your friends and family will be raving about it long after dinner is over.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week with ease. Here’s how to store and preserve your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual pieces of Bang Bang Chicken in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the chicken in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Alternatively, use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes.
• Microwave reheating is possible, but it may result in softer breading.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come to mind as you prepare your Bang Bang Chicken!

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish featuring crispy panko-crusted chicken tenderloins served with a zingy homemade bang bang sauce. It’s perfect as an appetizer or main course!

How can I make Bang Bang Chicken healthier?

To lighten up your Bang Bang Chicken, consider baking instead of frying. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs and reduce the amount of sauce used.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! While tenderloins are great for their tenderness, you can substitute them with boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips for a similar result.

What’s in the bang bang sauce?

The bang bang sauce typically includes mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. This combination creates a sweet and spicy flavor that’s irresistible!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe as delightful as I do! The crispy texture paired with the creamy and spicy bang bang sauce makes this dish truly special. Enjoy making it for family gatherings or just a cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any twists you put on this recipe—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!