Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful combination of tender, juicy chicken and a light, crunchy crust, all coated in a creamy, tangy, and mildly spicy bang bang sauce. This crowd-pleasing dish is perfect as an appetizer for parties or a main course for family dinners. With its irresistible flavor and texture, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Crunch: The combination of flour and cornstarch ensures an ultra-crispy coating.
• Flavor Explosion: The sweet, spicy, and tangy bang bang sauce is simply addictive.
• Versatile: Great as a party appetizer, side dish, or main meal.
• Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make it accessible even for beginners.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken: 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Coating:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
• Bang Bang Sauce:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tbsp sriracha
  • 1 tbsp honey
• Oil: For frying

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
   • Dip chicken pieces into the beaten eggs, then coat them in the flour mixture, ensuring an even layer.
2. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
   • Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side.
   • Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth.
4. Toss and Serve:
   • Toss the fried chicken pieces in the bang bang sauce until evenly coated.
   • Serve immediately as an appetizer or over rice for a main course.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Air-Fried Option: Cook the coated chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Baked Version: Bake the chicken at 400°F for 20–25 minutes on a greased baking sheet, flipping halfway.
• Spicier Sauce: Add more sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for the coating.
• Healthier Option: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the chicken soggy.

FAQs

1. What is bang bang sauce?

Bang bang sauce is a creamy, sweet, and mildly spicy sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well for this recipe.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can fry the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead. Toss them together just before serving.

4. How can I make this less spicy?

Reduce or omit the sriracha in the sauce for a milder flavor.

5. Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, freeze the fried chicken pieces (without sauce) in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in an oven or air fryer.

6. What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Serve it over rice, with noodles, or alongside a fresh green salad.

7. How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving to maintain crispiness.

8. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally dairy-free.

9. What oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients while keeping the cooking method the same.

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is the ultimate combination of crunch and flavor, making it a hit at any meal or gathering. The creamy, spicy, and tangy bang bang sauce elevates this dish to unforgettable levels. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Try it today and bring some excitement to your table!

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