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Welcome, food lovers! If you’ve been searching for a deliciously crispy, tender chicken recipe with a spicy, tangy kick, then you’re in the right place! This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is a must-try dish that will tantalize your taste buds and have you coming back for more. With its golden-brown panko-crusted exterior and the irresistible Bang Bang sauce, it’s perfect for a quick dinner, a game-day snack, or a fun family meal.

Bang Bang Chicken is inspired by a fusion of American and Asian cuisines, combining the best of crispy chicken with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. The simplicity of preparation and explosive flavors make it a standout in any recipe collection.

Let’s dive into the details to get started on this crispy, spicy adventure!

Introduction: What Makes Bang Bang Chicken So Special?

Bang Bang Chicken originated as a popular street food dish in China, where the chicken was shredded and served cold with a spicy sauce. However, the modern twist on Bang Bang Chicken takes this classic to new heights by frying chicken tenders to perfection and drizzling them with a spicy, creamy sauce.

What makes this dish unique is the homemade Bang Bang Sauce that perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, making every bite a delightful explosion. This dish is easy to prepare and can be served as a starter, main course, or even a party snack, making it versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients needed to prepare Bang Bang Chicken. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
• ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons honey

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)
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Optional Substitutions:

• Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• Replace Sriracha with chili paste if desired.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken – Step by Step

Here’s how you can make this delightful Bang Bang Chicken recipe at home. Follow the steps closely, and feel free to experiment with the spices to match your preferred flavor profile.

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Set aside while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Coating

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix until smooth. This will serve as the coating for the chicken.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Add the panko breadcrumbs to a shallow plate. Remove each chicken tenderloin from the batter, shaking off excess, and dredge it in the panko. Press lightly to ensure the panko adheres evenly. Repeat with each chicken piece.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, add about 1 inch of canola oil and heat it over medium-high until the temperature reaches 365°F. The ideal frying temperature will ensure a crispy coating and juicy inside.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 6: Draining and Serving

Place the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Toss the chicken with the prepared Bang Bang sauce, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken with your favorite side dishes or on its own!

Helpful Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Here are some extra tips to make your Bang Bang Chicken even more delicious:

• Use Fresh Oil: Using fresh oil for frying ensures a clean flavor and prevents unwanted greasy aftertastes.
• Double Dredge for Extra Crispiness: If you like your chicken extra crispy, consider double dredging: dip the chicken in the batter and panko twice.
• Control the Spice Level: Adjust the Sriracha and cayenne pepper to make the sauce spicier or milder.

Cooking Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken for Extra Flavor

Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to infuse deeper flavors and tenderize the meat.

2. Keep the Oil at a Steady Temperature

Monitor the oil temperature using a kitchen thermometer to ensure it stays around 365°F. This prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.

3. Use Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko crumbs give the chicken a light, airy, and crisp coating compared to regular breadcrumbs, ensuring a crunchy texture every time.

Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken

Serve your Bang Bang Chicken alongside:

• Fried Rice or Lo Mein for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
• Pair with a Cucumber Salad to balance the richness.
• Serve with a side of Spicy Mayo or extra Bang Bang Sauce for dipping.

For a fun twist, use the Bang Bang Chicken in tacos or wraps!

Nutritional Information

Nutritional Info for Bang Bang Chicken (Per Serving):

• Calories: 425
• Total Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 28g
• Sodium: 785mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g

Storage and Leftovers for Bang Bang Chicken

To store leftover Bang Bang Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
3. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the chicken to become soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Bang Bang Chicken

Q1: Can I bake Bang Bang Chicken instead of frying?

Yes! To bake, preheat the oven to 400°F and place the breaded chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q2: Is Bang Bang Chicken spicy?

It has a mild kick. For a spicier version, add extra Sriracha or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Q3: What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Q4: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Related Recipes for Bang Bang Chicken Lovers

1. Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread

   – A hearty dish perfect for a comforting family meal.

2. Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix

   – A quick and tasty appetizer for gatherings.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Bang Bang Chicken!

There you have it! A delicious, crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out. Feel free to share your tweaks or add your favorite sides. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

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