Bang Bang Chicken

Table of Contents

I first stumbled upon Bang Bang Chicken during a cozy evening out with friends at a local eatery. The air was fragrant with spices and the chatter of laughter softened the heart. When that first heavenly bite reached my mouth, it was as if fireworks danced across my taste buds. The crunchy golden exterior paired delightfully with the creamy, spicy sauce that clung to the chicken like a warm hug. It was love at first bite!

Every time I make this dish, my kitchen fills with a symphony of sizzling sounds and mouthwatering aromas, wrapping me in that same cozy vibe. The joyful colors of the dish, from the golden chicken to the vibrant green onions, are irresistible, making it the perfect highlight for any gathering. Yum! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why Bang Bang Chicken has become a beloved staple in my home—and why it will surely find a cozy spot in your heart too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of the creamy bang bang sauce and crunchy chicken will make your taste buds sing!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a get-together with friends, everyone will be coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
• Customizable: Adjust the spice levels or add your favorite crunch to personalize this dish.
• Healthier Indulgence: Using lean chicken breast keeps it nutritious while still being supremely satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Boneless chicken breast is lean and tender, making for a delightful bite. Make sure to cut them evenly for consistent cooking.

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular): Panko gives a fabulous crunch! Feel free to use regular breadcrumbs if that’s what you have on hand.

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: This creamy base brings the sauce together beautifully. You can swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.

• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: This adds a delightful sweetness! Consider trying it on fish or veggies too.

• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice level): Spice it up or tone it down; this is where you can play with flavors!

• 1 tablespoon lime juice: A squeeze of lime brings the perfect zing—so fresh and zesty!

• Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your liking; they truly elevate your dish.

• Oil for frying: A good frying oil (like vegetable or canola) ensures your chicken gets that lovely, golden color.

• Green onions for garnish (optional): The bright pop of green is so visually appealing, plus it adds a hint of freshness!

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

1. Create the Bang Bang Sauce

In a cozy bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Give it a taste and adjust! This should be creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of spicy—a delightful start!

2. Coat the Chicken

Take those bite-sized chicken pieces and lovingly coat them in the breadcrumbs. Make sure every piece is well-covered for that scrumptious crunch!

3. Heat the Oil

Add a generous amount of oil to a frying pan and heat it over medium heat. You want it hot enough for that gorgeous sizzle when the chicken hits the pan!

4. Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the hot oil. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through, flipping them halfway. Oh, the smell of frying chicken fills the air—pure comfort!

5. Toss in the Sauce

Once the chicken is golden and crispy, toss it gently in the bang bang sauce until well-coated. You’ll want every piece to be smothered in that deliciousness!

6. Serve and Garnish

Serve the Bang Bang Chicken hot—don’t forget to sprinkle some green onions on top for that lovely pop of color and freshness!

Pro Tips for Success

• Temperature is Key: Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to get that perfect crispy texture.
• Don’t crowd the pan: Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and leads to soggy chicken.
• QA taste the sauce: Always make sure to taste your sauce for seasoning; a little more lime or sriracha can elevate it.
• Let it rest: Give the chicken a minute on paper towels after frying to crisp up even more!

Flavor Variations

• Swap Out the Protein: Try shrimp or even tofu for a vegan variation.
• Add a Crunch: Mix in crushed nuts like cashews or peanuts for an extra layer of texture.
• Seasonal Twists: Experiment with seasonal spices or sauces, like adding fresh herbs in spring or a splash of BBQ sauce in the summer!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Bang Bang Chicken with a side of fluffy jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance those rich flavors. A crisp white wine or a fizzy ginger ale pairs beautifully with the spice. For a lovely presentation, arrange the chicken on a platter and drizzle with a bit more sauce!

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can pre-cut and season your chicken hours ahead to save time. Store uncooked chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Once cooked, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 days.

Leftovers

Transform leftovers into a delightful wrap with fresh veggies and your favorite greens, or toss them into a salad for a quick and delicious lunch!

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze cooked Bang Bang Chicken! Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for about 2 months.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to regain that crispy texture. If you’re in a pinch, the microwave will work, but you might lose a little crunch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking for even results.

Is this dish spicy?
It can be! Adjust the sriracha to your preferred heat level, or omit it if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I bake instead of fry?
You can! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place breaded chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Try Greek yogurt or an avocado-based mayo for a creamy, healthier alternative!

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me today in this delightful culinary journey! I hope you embrace the cozy vibes of Bang Bang Chicken in your kitchen, just as I do. This dish is not only a treat for the palate but also a beautiful centerpiece for gathering those you love around the table. Happy cooking, and may every bite bring a smile to your face! Until next time, chef on!