Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that perfectly balances crispy textures with a creamy, spicy sauce. Ideal for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or game days, this recipe showcases tender chicken coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and drizzled with a mouthwatering homemade bang bang sauce. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, Bang Bang Chicken is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs create an irresistible crunch that elevates the dish.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade bang bang sauce adds a perfect kick of sweetness and spice.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer or main course, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit at parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Shallow dishes
• Frying pan
• Tongs or slotted spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Frying pan: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency for the bang bang sauce.

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Ingredients

To make delicious Bang Bang Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

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)
• Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Mix well until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In another bowl, add the buttermilk to the chicken tenderloins. Let them soak for at least 10 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station

Prepare three shallow dishes:
1. In one dish, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. In the second dish, whisk together the egg and Sriracha.
3. In the third dish, place panko breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Remove each chicken tenderloin from buttermilk. Coat in flour mixture first, then dip in egg mixture, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs thoroughly.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Heat canola oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add breaded chicken tenderloins in batches. Fry until golden brown on both sides—about 6 minutes total. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Serve

Drizzle warm bang bang sauce over fried chicken tenderloins. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you are hosting a dinner or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Casual Plate Setup

• Serve the chicken on a large platter with a side of extra bang bang sauce for dipping.
• Add fresh veggies like sliced cucumbers and bell peppers for a refreshing crunch.

Wrap It Up

• Place crispy Bang Bang Chicken in warm tortillas with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes for flavorful wraps.
• Drizzle additional sauce inside the wrap for an extra kick.

Salad Topper

• Use sliced Bang Bang Chicken as a protein-packed topping on mixed greens.
• Pair it with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken.

Party Appetizer

• Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and serve them skewered with toothpicks.
• This makes for an easy-to-eat appetizer at gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

To achieve the best results, follow these key tips when preparing your Bang Bang Chicken.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken tenderloins and high-quality mayo for optimal flavor.
• Marinate Properly: Let the chicken soak in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to ensure tenderness and flavor infusion.
• Panko Perfection: Use plain panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch. They create a delightful texture when fried.
• Control Oil Temperature: Ensure oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before frying to achieve that golden crust without excess grease.
• Serve Fresh: Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken immediately after frying for the best crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Rice: A fluffy bowl of white or jasmine rice complements the spicy flavors perfectly.
2. Crispy French Fries: Serve crunchy fries on the side for a classic comfort food pairing.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings freshness and balances out the richness of the chicken.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a healthy contrast to the fried chicken.
6. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the perfect Bang Bang Chicken, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh panko breadcrumbs ensure a crispy texture. Always check the expiration date and use new breadcrumbs for the best results.
• Skipping marination: Allowing chicken to soak in buttermilk enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t skip this step; even 30 minutes can make a difference!
• Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Fry in batches for that perfect crunch.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Sriracha can vary in heat; taste your sauce before adding more. Adjust it according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Ignoring resting time: Letting the chicken rest post-frying keeps it juicy. Allow at least 5 minutes before serving to enhance its flavor and moisture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal quality.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Check regularly.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil, and warm the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken features crispy fried chicken tenderloins coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that adds incredible flavor. It’s perfect as an appetizer or main dish.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately ahead of time. Just fry the chicken right before serving for maximum crispiness.

Is there a vegetarian version of Bang Bang Chicken?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Follow the same preparation steps for delicious vegetarian Bang Bang options.

How can I customize the sauce for my Bang Bang Chicken?

You can adjust sweetness by adding more honey or spice by increasing Sriracha. Experimenting with different hot sauces can also give it a unique twist!

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it as an appetizer, dinner, or even toss it into salads or wraps. Feel free to customize the spice level and dipping sauces to suit your taste preferences!