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The Cozy kitchen is filled with the scents of garlicky goodness and a hint of spice! My love affair with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Sriracha Mayo Sauce began on a rainy Friday evening. I remember the pitter-patter of raindrops against the window and the comforting ambiance of the soft kitchen light. With the smell of chicken starting to sizzle in the pan and the anticipation of that crispy coating, I couldn’t help but feel warm inside.
I had just discovered this delightful dish during a dinner party at a friend’s house. We were all huddled around the table, laughing and swapping stories when my friend placed a platter of these golden, crispy bites before us. The first bite hit all the right notes — sweet, spicy, and oh-so-comforting. Each piece was beautifully crunchy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. The sauce drizzled over was an irresistible blend of sweetness with just enough heat to keep things interesting! It made my heart sing, and I knew I had to recreate that magic in my own home.
Today, I’m thrilled to share my rendition of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with you! With each bite, I promise you’ll revel in those cozy kitchen vibes and taste the love we put into it. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a warm hug for your taste buds!
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken with Sriracha Mayo Sauce Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The sweet and spicy sauce packs a punch that tantalizes the palate.
- Crispy Perfection: Who can resist that satisfying crunch? This dish has it in abundance!
- Quick and Easy: Preparation is a breeze, perfect for weeknight feasts or impromptu gatherings.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Family and friends alike will rave about this stunning dish!
- Customizable: Adjust the spiciness to your liking, making it approachable for everyone!
- Comforting Delight: It’s the ultimate comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option): Creamy and tangy, this base helps to make the sauce rich.
- 1/4 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (No direct substitute, honey can boost sweetness): Adds that iconic sweet and sticky goodness.
- 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha Sauce (Adjust according to your spice tolerance): For that delightful kick; feel free to go easy if heat isn’t your thing!
- 1 tablespoon Honey (Maple syrup works as a vegan alternative): A touch of natural sweetness to balance the savoriness.
- 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins (Chicken breasts can be used if tenderloins are unavailable): Perfectly tender bites that embrace the sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup Buttermilk (Regular milk mixed with vinegar serves as a good substitute): A tenderizing soak that enhances moisture in the chicken.
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour blends can work perfectly as a replacement): It coats the chicken and provides that crucial crunch.
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch (Arrowroot starch is a helpful alternative): For an extra-crisp texture that you’ll love!
- 1 large Egg (Use a flaxseed egg for a vegan version): It acts as a binder, helping the flour and panko stick.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: For a savory touch that envelopes the chicken in flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Salt: An essential flavor enhancer.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: A pinch of warmth and spice!
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Adjust to taste): Optional but recommended for a little extra zing.
- 2 cups Plain Panko Breadcrumbs (Traditional breadcrumbs are fine but won’t provide as much texture): The key to achieving the perfect crunch!
- 2 cups Canola Oil (Any neutral oil (like vegetable oil) will do): Essential for frying until crispy and golden.
- 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (Optional, adds color and freshness): A sprinkle of green to brighten up your dish.
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken with Sriracha Mayo Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by soaking those lovely chicken tenderloins in a bowl filled with buttermilk for 30 minutes. This step ensures our chicken stays moist and tender while also soaking in flavor! Plus, the aroma of buttermilk is just divine, filling your kitchen with warmth.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth and creamy. Oh, the smell! It’s a perfect blend of sweet and spicy; you might want to sneak a taste or two! Set this aside — this will elevate your chicken to new heights.
Step 3: Breading Station
Prepare your breading station: in one bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another bowl, whisk the egg until lightly frothy, and in the last bowl, pour the panko breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Take each buttermilk-soaked chicken tenderloin and dunk it into the flour mixture first, shaking off any excess. Then dip it in the egg, and finally, roll it in those glorious panko breadcrumbs until well-coated. The crunch is going to be extraordinary!
Step 5: Frying Time
In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, carefully place your breaded chicken in the hot oil. Fry them until golden brown and crispy — about 4-5 minutes on each side. Your kitchen will be humming with the delightful sound of sizzling chicken!
Step 6: Drizzle with Sauce
Once your chicken is perfectly crispy, toss it in the gorgeous sauce you prepared earlier, or drizzle it over the top for a beautiful presentation. Fresh chopped parsley can sprinkle over for a lovely pop of color!
Pro Tips for Success
- For extra crispy chicken, let it rest on a wire rack after frying instead of paper towels. This allows air circulation!
- Feel free to adjust the spice levels in the sauce; add more sriracha, or skip it entirely for a milder sauce.
- For an oven-baked version, bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes after breading, flipping halfway through.
Flavor Variations
- Mix up the protein! Shrimp or tofu can make delicious alternatives.
- Try adding a dash of sesame oil to the sauce for a unique twist.
- Seasonal veggies tossed with the chicken before frying can add color and health.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with a fresh side salad, steamed rice, or a batch of cheesy cornbread! Serve on a fun platter and drizzle more of that luscious sauce over the top for a beautiful presentation. For drinks, a crisp lemonade or a chilled glass of white wine will complement the flavors perfectly.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. Cooked chicken will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Leftovers
Turn leftovers into a bangin’ salad! Slice the chicken and toss it with mixed greens, avocado, and extra sauce for lunch. Or, try adding it to wraps, quesadillas, or savory grain bowls — the possibilities are endless!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze cooked Crispy Bang Bang Chicken! Allow it to cool completely, then place it in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to bring back that crispy texture is in the oven. Preheat to 375°F and bake for 10-15 minutes. If you’re short on time, the microwave works, but you might lose some of that wonderful crunch.
FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe? Boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins work best because they cook evenly and stay juicy. Chicken breasts are a great alternative!
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Absolutely! Tofu is an excellent substitute for chicken and can be breaded and cooked the same way!
Is it really necessary to marinate the chicken? Marinating in buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with flavor. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
Can I bake the Chicken Bang Bang instead of frying it? You absolutely can! Bake at 400°F until golden brown, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken has brought a delightful twist to my kitchen, and I cannot wait for you to experience its magic! It’s not just a dish; it’s a joyful experience that fills the air with warmth and laughter. So gather your loved ones, whip up this cozy dish, and transform a simple meal into a delicious celebration! You’re going to love it — I just know it! Happy cooking, friends!
Now, let’s get those aprons on and get cooking! Full recipe card is below.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Soak the chicken tenderloins in a bowl filled with buttermilk for 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth and creamy.
- In one bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg until lightly frothy.
- In the last bowl, pour the panko breadcrumbs.
- Take each buttermilk-soaked chicken tenderloin and dunk it into the flour mixture first, shaking off any excess.
- Then dip it in the egg, and finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until well-coated.
- In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat.
- Once shimmering, carefully place the breaded chicken in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Once the chicken is crispy, toss it in the sauce or drizzle it over the top for presentation.
- Garnish with chopped parsley.
