The sizzle of chicken frying in hot oil fills the kitchen, setting the stage for an unforgettable meal. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Bang Bang Chicken, a recipe brimming with mouthwatering flavors that transform ordinary chicken tenderloins into a crispy sensation. This delicious dish combines a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that will keep everyone reaching for seconds. Not only is it quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it also serves as a fantastic crowd-pleaser for gatherings or family dinners. With its juicy interior and crunchy exterior, each bite showcases a delightful balance of flavors. Are you ready to dive into this culinary adventure and make your own Bang Bang Chicken tonight?

Why is Bang Bang Chicken a Must-Try?

Crispy Perfection: The juiciness of the tenderloins enveloped in a crunchy coating creates an irresistible bite.
Flavor Explosion: With a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce, this dish redefines comfort food, perfect for every palate.
Quick & Easy: In just a few steps, you can whip up this restaurant-quality meal, ideal for weeknight dinners.
Ultimate Versatility: Enjoy with rice, salad, or as an appetizer; you can’t go wrong!
Crowd Favorite: Impress your family and friends at gatherings with this delightful treat that they’ll keep coming back for.
Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients or experiment with different proteins to suit your taste—make it your own!

Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the sauce. Note: For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be used.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweetness and a mild kick. Alternative: Use homemade chili sauce for a fresher flavor.
Sriracha Sauce – Provides heat to the sauce. Adjust to taste for spiciness.
Honey – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors. Maple syrup can be a substitute.

For the Chicken Coating

Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins – Main protein providing the crispy texture. Can substitute with shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower.
Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating adhere. Yogurt mixed with milk can be used as a substitute.
All-Purpose Flour – Helps create a crispy skin. Gluten-free flour can work for a gluten-free version.
Cornstarch – Contributes to the crunch of the coating. Optional, but enhances texture.
Egg – Binds the coating. No substitute available for vegan option; omit if not needed.
Garlic Powder – Adds flavor to the coating. Fresh minced garlic can be used for a sharper taste.
Spices (Salt, Pepper, Cayenne) – Season the chicken; cayenne can be adjusted for desired heat. Omit cayenne for milder taste.
Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates the crunchy exterior. Regular breadcrumbs can be used for a different texture.

For Frying

Canola Oil – Used for frying; allows for high-temperature cooking. Vegetable oil is a good alternative.
Chopped Parsley – For garnishing, adds color and freshness.

This lineup of ingredients is your ticket to making the ultimate Bang Bang Chicken—where crispy meets creamy, and sweet meets spicy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, and 1 tablespoon honey. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This sweet and spicy sauce will be the perfect complement to your crispy Bang Bang Chicken, so set it aside while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup buttermilk, ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup cornstarch, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt, black pepper, and cayenne. This flavorful marinade tenderizes the chicken, so immerse the boneless skinless chicken tenderloins in the mixture. Let them marinate for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, remove each tenderloin from the mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tenderloin in 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, pressing down gently to ensure an even coating. This creates the signature crunchy exterior that makes Bang Bang Chicken utterly irresistible, so be sure to cover every surface.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat the oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 365°F (185°C). Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook each tenderloin for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The crispy coating will turn a beautiful golden hue, signaling they are ready to be taken out.

Step 5: Drain and Toss
Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken tenders to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Allow a minute for the oil to absorb, then place the crispy Bang Bang Chicken in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the chicken, tossing gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated in the creamy, sweet, and spicy goodness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
To finish, sprinkle chopped parsley over the glorious mound of Bang Bang Chicken for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the dish warm and enjoy with your favorite sides like steamed rice or cucumber salad. Each bite promises a delightful combination of crunch and flavor that everyone at the table will love!

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Chicken tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken tenders in the buttermilk mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for deeper flavor infusion. Additionally, prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the marinated chicken in panko breadcrumbs and fry until golden brown. This prep method ensures that dinner comes together in no time while maintaining that desirable crunch and juicy interior. Just remember, for the best quality, fry the chicken just before serving to keep it crispy and fresh!

Bang Bang Chicken: Recipe Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists and substitutions to make your Bang Bang Chicken uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Replace mayonnaise and buttermilk with a plant-based yogurt for a creamy, non-dairy version.
Spice Level Boost: Add extra Sriracha or a diced jalapeño to the marinade for an extra kick. The heat will bring an exciting edge to your dish!
Crispier Coating: Experiment with crushed cornflakes instead of panko for a different crunchy texture.
Baked Version: Season the breaded chicken and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes for a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a delightful vegetarian option. Each choice brings a unique taste and texture!
Homemade Sauce: For a fresher taste, make your own sweet chili sauce to control sweetness and spice levels. This personalized touch can elevate the dish!
Asian Twist: Incorporate sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds in the sauce for an Asian flavor profile. This addition adds richness and depth!
Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped fresh cilantro or basil into the Bang Bang sauce for a refreshing herbaceous note. This will brighten up every bite!

Feel encouraged to experiment with these variations or even combine a few! And if you’re looking to pair your Bang Bang Chicken with something bright and complementary, consider serving it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or some delightful sweet potato fries. Happy cooking!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken

Imagine a cozy dinner table filled with laughter, where every delicious bite of this dish transports you to culinary bliss.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice absorbs the spicy sauce beautifully and balances the flavors perfectly.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, rice vinegar, and a hint of sesame oil cleanses the palate and adds a crunchy contrast.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these sweet fries provide a delightful sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
Garlic Noodles: Tossed in a savory garlic sauce, these noodles bring an umami punch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy Bang Bang Chicken.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy blend of cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing adds freshness and tang, balancing the rich flavors of the chicken.
Mango Salsa: This fruity salsa with a medley of mango, red onion, and lime offers a bright, zesty contrast to the spicy sauce.
Chilled Sake: A glass of chilled sake elevates the dining experience while harmonizing beautifully with the spicy and sweet elements of the dish.
Chocolate Lava Cake: Finish the night on a sweet note with a gooey dessert, where the richness perfectly complements the Bang Bang Chicken’s spices.

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps the chicken fresh and helps maintain its flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-friendly bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken again, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Thawing: When ready to serve, thaw the frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve its texture and taste.

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken

Perfect Temperature: Maintain frying oil at 365°F to achieve that golden, crispy exterior. Too hot, and they burn; too cold, and they become soggy.
Customize Heat Level: Adjust Sriracha or add cayenne for a spicier sauce. Start with less, as you can always increase heat to suit your taste!
Lighten Up: If you’re looking to reduce calories, consider baking or air frying the chicken instead of frying them in oil for a healthier twist.
Use a Thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for proper cooking. This prevents undercooked or dry chicken.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic instead of garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile, making your Bang Bang Chicken even more delicious.
Coating Tips: Allow the excess marinade to drip off before dredging in panko breadcrumbs for a more even and crispy coating!

Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken tenderloins for Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! Look for tenderloins that are pink, plump, and have a firm texture. Avoid any with dark spots or a slimy feel, as they may indicate spoilage. Fresh, quality chicken will help ensure your dish is both safe and delicious!

What is the best way to store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Very! Store your Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cool the chicken completely before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken for later?
Definitely! To freeze, first place the cooked, cooled chicken on a baking sheet in a single layer and pop it in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-friendly bag—this method helps prevent sticking. It can be stored for up to 3 months!

What should I do if my Bang Bang Chicken coating isn’t crispy?
Oh no! If your coating isn’t crispy, it might be due to a few reasons. Ensure the frying oil temp is at 365°F and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature. For an extra crunch, consider using a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch or thoroughly shake off excess marinade before dredging.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind when making Bang Bang Chicken?
The more the merrier! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily make adjustments. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, and if you’re vegan, consider swapping the chicken for tofu or cauliflower and using a flax egg in place of chicken or eggs.

How do I reheat frozen Bang Bang Chicken?
To reheat, remove the chicken from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, preheat your oven to 375°F, place the pieces on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and the coating is crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make the coating soggy.