This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a fun and tasty dish that’s perfect for an easy dinner! The chicken is coated in a crunchy breading and topped with a creamy, spicy sauce that leaves your taste buds happy.
The best part? It’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser! I love serving it with some rice or veggies on the side—perfect for feeling fancy without too much effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but breasts work perfectly too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian twist. Just make sure to adjust cooking times!
Flour and Cornstarch: This combination is key for a super crispy coating. You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed. Cornstarch adds crispness, but you can use potato starch too if you’re out.
Bang Bang Sauce: The mayonnaise creates creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap, or use a vegan mayo for a plant-based option. Adjust sriracha according to your spice preference—more for heat, less for mild!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
Getting that nice crispy texture is all about the coating and frying technique. Here’s a step-by-step to help you out:
- Double coat: dip the chicken in egg, then the flour mixture, and repeat. This extra layer makes a big difference in crunch.
- Oil temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough—around 350°F (175°C). This prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil and keeps it crispy.
- Fry in batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry pieces in batches to maintain the oil temperature and get an even, golden finish.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly crispy Bang Bang Chicken every time!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste for spice)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious crispy Bang Bang Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner. Don’t forget to have everything ready before you start frying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coating:
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This blend will make your chicken extra crunchy!
2. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, crack the eggs and beat them until they’re full of air and slightly frothy. This will help the coating stick to the chicken.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken, dip it into the egg mixture first, ensuring it’s fully covered, and then coat it well with the flour mixture. For even crisper chicken, you can double dip: repeat the egg and flour coating.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom (about 1-2 inches deep) and heat over medium-high heat. You want it to reach about 350°F (175°C) before frying.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb excess grease.
6. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until you have a smooth sauce. Taste it and adjust the spice if you’d like more heat!
7. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Toss the crispy chicken pieces in the Bang Bang sauce until they are well-coated or drizzle the sauce over the top if you prefer a lighter touch.
8. Garnish and Serve:
If desired, garnish your dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a nice finishing touch. Enjoy your crispy, creamy, and slightly spicy Bang Bang Chicken right away with some steamed rice or your favorite side!
Dig in and enjoy this flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor to your Bang Bang Chicken. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces, and follow the same preparation and cooking steps!
How Do I Make the Sauce Spicier?
If you want more heat, simply increase the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken and coat it in advance, then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Fry it just before serving for the best crispy texture. Alternatively, you can make the sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) to help retain its crispiness, or use a microwave if you’re in a hurry!
