This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a fun and easy dinner that packs a punch! With crispy chicken coated in a spicy, sweet sauce, it’s sure to please everyone’s taste buds.
I love making this for a quick meal after a busy day. Just fry or bake the chicken, toss it in the sauce, and serve! It’s finger-licking good, and you’ll be wiping your plate clean! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless chicken thighs are great for juicy bites, but chicken breasts work just as well. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian take!
Flour & Cornstarch: The combination gives the chicken that extra crunch! You can use gluten-free flour or even almond flour if you’re gluten-sensitive. Cornstarch is key for that crispy texture, but arrowroot powder is a good substitute too!
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise is the base, offering creaminess. Greek yogurt is a healthier swap if you want a tangy twist. Adjust the sriracha based on how much heat you can handle—feel free to leave it out for a milder flavor!
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy coating, follow these steps:
- Dry the chicken: Start by patting the chicken dry—this helps the coating stick better.
- Two-step coating: Dipping in egg first adds moisture, while dredging in the flour mixture creates that crunchy crust.
- Proper oil temperature: Make sure your oil is hot (350°F) before adding the chicken. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb oil and become soggy!
- Don’t crowd the pan: Fry in batches to keep the temperature steady, which contributes to that crispy finish.
With these tips, your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken will turn out amazing every time! Happy cooking!
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and another 15 minutes for frying. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 35 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick better and keeps the chicken crispy.
2. Make the Coating:
In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This combination gives the chicken a delightful flavor and crunch!
3. Egg Wash:
In another bowl, beat the two eggs together until well mixed. This will help the coating stick to the chicken perfectly.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash first, then dredge it in the flour mixture. Press lightly to make sure it sticks. Place the coated pieces on a plate while you prepare to fry.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or fryer, pour enough vegetable oil to reach about 2 inches deep. Heat it up to 350°F (175°C) using a kitchen thermometer to ensure it’s the right temperature for frying.
6. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, being mindful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil.
7. Make the Sauce:
While the chicken cools a bit, prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (or sugar), and rice vinegar (or lime juice) until smooth and well combined.
8. Toss Chicken in Sauce:
Place the fried chicken in a large bowl. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and gently toss to coat every piece evenly.
9. Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if you like. Serve your crispy Bang Bang Chicken immediately over steamed rice or with a fresh side salad. Enjoy this delightful dish!
Bon appétit! Your crispy, spicy, and flavorful Bang Bang Chicken dinner is ready to be devoured!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before proceeding with the recipe to ensure the coating adheres well.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise in the Bang Bang Sauce?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works as a great substitute for mayonnaise. It adds creaminess with a tangy flavor. You could also try using sour cream for a similar texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, you can reheat it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, rather than using the microwave.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This allows the flavors to meld even better, making your dish extra tasty!
