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This crispy, golden Bang Bang Chicken has become my secret weapon for dinner parties and family gatherings. The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce coating each tender piece of chicken creates an irresistible dish that disappears within minutes whenever I serve it.
I first made this recipe when hosting an impromptu game night, and it quickly became the star of the evening. Now my friends specifically request "that amazing chicken" whenever they visit, and I'm always happy to oblige.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of this signature sauce
- Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds the perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat
- Sriracha sauce: Brings that distinctive spicy kick look for a quality brand for best flavor
- Honey: Helps round out the flavors and adds a subtle sweetness
- Boneless skinless chicken tenderloins: Stay juicy and cook quickly
- Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating adhere
- All purpose flour: Combined with cornstarch creates the perfect crispy exterior
- Large egg: Acts as a binder for the breading
- Sriracha sauce: Infuses the chicken itself with flavor
- Garlic powder: Adds depth without overpowering
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for proper seasoning
- Cayenne pepper: Optional but recommended for heat lovers
- Panko breadcrumbs: Create that signature crunch factor choose Japanese style for best results
- Canola oil: Has a high smoke point ideal for frying
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the finished dish with color and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl until completely smooth and well incorporated. The sauce should have a pale orange hue and silky consistency. Let it rest while preparing the chicken to allow flavors to meld together.
- Prepare the Chicken Marinade:
- Whisk the wet and dry marinade ingredients thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, slightly thick batter with no lumps. Submerge chicken pieces completely in this mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Allow the chicken to rest in this marinade for at least 10 minutes so the buttermilk can tenderize the meat.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Spread panko breadcrumbs evenly on a plate or shallow dish. Remove each tender individually from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off before pressing firmly into the breadcrumbs. Ensure complete coverage by flipping and pressing multiple times. The coating should look substantial and even.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Heat oil to exactly 365°F using a thermometer for accuracy. Carefully lower 3 to 4 tenders into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Maintain oil temperature throughout cooking by adjusting heat as needed. Each piece should turn deeply golden brown and register 165°F internally when tested.
- Drain and Toss:
- Place fried tenders on paper towels and blot gently to remove excess oil. Transfer still hot chicken to a large bowl and pour approximately half the sauce over them. Toss gently with tongs to coat each piece evenly without disturbing the crispy coating too much.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Arrange sauced chicken on a serving platter, sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately while still hot. Offer remaining sauce on the side for additional dipping.
This recipe reminds me of the first time I visited a Cheesecake Factory with my college roommates years ago. We ordered their Bang Bang Chicken and instantly fell in love. Creating this homemade version brings back those carefree memories while allowing me to control the ingredients and customize the heat level for my family.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Bang Bang Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, store the chicken and any unused sauce separately. When reheating, place the chicken on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as this will make the coating soggy. The sauce can be refrigerated separately for up to a week and used as a delicious dipping sauce for other dishes.
Serving Suggestions
Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice and stir fried vegetables for an Asian inspired dinner. For a lighter option, place atop a crisp green salad with mandarin oranges and sliced almonds. The chicken also works beautifully in tacos with shredded cabbage and a squeeze of lime juice. When serving as an appetizer, arrange on a platter with lime wedges and additional sauce for dipping.
Making It Healthier
This indulgent dish can be adapted for more health conscious diners without sacrificing flavor. Instead of deep frying, arrange the breaded chicken on a parchment lined baking sheet. Spray with cooking oil and bake at 425°F for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time. For an air fryer version, cook at 390°F for 12 to 14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The sauce can be lightened by using light mayonnaise or substituting half the mayo with plain Greek yogurt for added protein and fewer calories.
The Origins Story
While this western version of Bang Bang Chicken has become a restaurant favorite, the dish has fascinating roots in Sichuan cuisine. Traditional Bang Bang Ji is made with poached chicken dressed in a sesame sauce and gets its name from the wooden sticks or bang bang used to tenderize the meat. The Americanized version we enjoy today emerged in chain restaurants during the early 2000s, transforming the dish into the crispy, sauce coated creation that has captured the hearts of diners everywhere. This fusion approach highlights how culinary traditions evolve and adapt across cultures.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is Bang Bang Chicken made of?
Bang Bang Chicken features crispy chicken tenderloins coated in a tangy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang Sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
- → How can I make the dish spicier?
Add extra Sriracha to the sauce or increase the cayenne pepper in the chicken marinade for a spicier flavor.
- → Can I bake or air fry the chicken?
Yes, for a healthier option, you can bake or air fry the breaded chicken instead of frying, although the texture may vary slightly.
- → How do I ensure the chicken is crispy?
Maintain the frying oil at 365°F and ensure the chicken is well-coated in breadcrumbs to achieve the crispiest results.
- → What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables. It also works as an appetizer or can be served in wraps or sandwiches.