Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Sweet Chili Sauce

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Crispy Bang Bang Chicken! This delightful dish holds a special place in my heart and my kitchen. I’ll never forget the first time I had it; the aroma wafted through the air like a warm hug as a friend prepared it during a cozy get-together. The moment I took my first bite, the creamy sauce enveloped the crispy chicken like a blanket of comfort. The combination of sweet and slight heat tickled my taste buds in the best way possible, and I immediately knew I had stumbled onto a culinary treasure.

As I set out to recreate the magic in my own kitchen, I felt an urge to explore and make it my own. You know how your kitchen can turn into a cozy sanctuary? That’s exactly how it felt as I mixed the vibrant ingredients, the sizzle of chicken in oil filling the room with a tantalizing symphony. Trust me when I say this recipe not only warms my belly but also fills my heart with fond memories. I can’t wait for you to experience this joy too!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Whip this up in less than 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Even the pickiest eaters will have a tough time resisting this crunchy coated chicken.
• Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or a delightful party dish.
• Flavor Explosion: The creamy, spicy sauce gives a delightful kick that you simply can’t ignore!
• Healthy Twist: With a few modifications, this can fit into a healthier diet if you’re being mindful.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts: Choose fresh chicken breasts for a juicy bite—always a winner!
• 1 cup corn starch: This is your golden ticket to achieving that irresistibly crispy coating!
• 1 cup vegetable oil: For frying; opt for a neutral oil to let the chicken’s flavor shine.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: This is the creamy base for our sauce; it adds richness and keeps the chicken moist.
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: This is where the magic happens! It brings sweetness and a touch of spice.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional for heat): For those who love a little extra kick—go ahead and be fearless!
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Chopped green onions for garnish: These add a pop of color and a bright, fresh crunch.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Cut the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper. The aroma of the seasoned chicken will already have your taste buds tingling!

2. Dredge in Corn Starch

Dredge each chicken piece in corn starch, ensuring each piece is fully coated. This is the secret to achieving that delectably crunchy texture. Feel free to get your hands a bit messy—cooking is all about fun!

3. Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when a drop of water makes it sizzle!

4. Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches. Fry until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Oh, the sizzle and crackle—it’s music to my ears!

5. Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Taste, taste, taste! The flavors should balance beautifully, adding a cozy warmth with every dip.

6. Toss in the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, toss it in the sauce until every morsel is beautifully coated. You’ll be transported to flavor town in an instant!

7. Serve Hot

Serve this delightful dish hot, garnished with chopped green onions. Maybe turn on some good music, and enjoy the moment!

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet while frying; this helps keep the chicken crispy.
• Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before tossing in the sauce lets the flavors meld nicely.
• Feel free to adjust the level of sriracha based on your spice preference!

Flavor Variations

• Substitute chicken: Try using shrimp or tofu for a different protein twist!
• Incorporate fresh herbs: Basil or cilantro can be a fun addition to the sauce for added freshness.
• Make it zesty: Add lime juice to the sauce for a citrusy zing!

Serving Suggestions

This Bang Bang Chicken is delicious served over fluffy jasmine rice or a bed of fresh greens for a light meal. Pair it with a cold, fruity drink—perhaps a sparkling lemonade or a tropical iced tea. And don’t forget to set the table with some colorful plates; it makes it feel extra special!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to toss it with the chicken right before serving! Cooked Bang Bang Chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Leftovers

Transform leftover Bang Bang Chicken into a scrumptious salad or wrap it in soft tortillas with crunchy veggies for a fun lunch! Nothing goes to waste with this dish!

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag for safety.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Bang Bang Chicken is gently in a skillet on low heat for that crispy texture. Alternatively, you can use the oven at 350°F, but keep it covered with foil initially to prevent drying out. The microwave is fast but may make it a touch soft!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, thaw it fully before following the recipe for the best results!

How can I make this dish spicier?

Feel free to add more sriracha or even crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Spice it up to your heart’s content!

What else can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

It pairs beautifully with cooked noodles, roasted vegetables, or a light cucumber salad.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap corn starch for a gluten-free flour blend.

Final Thoughts

Oh, friends, I hope you love making and sharing Bang Bang Chicken as much as I do. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a chance to create cozy memories, savor enticing flavors, and share joy with loved ones. Cooking can be a beautiful journey, so embrace the mess and have fun! Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and laughter!

Warmly, Chef Ellie 🌟