Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a fun and tasty dish that’s sure to please everyone! You get juicy chicken pieces that are fried to perfection and coated in a zesty spicy sauce that packs a flavor punch.
This dish always brings a smile to my face! I love serving it with some rice and veggies for a complete meal. Just beware, once you take a bite, you might not want to stop munching! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best because they stay moist and cook evenly. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use chicken tenders. For a vegetarian twist, try using bite-sized tofu or seitan.
Flour and Cornstarch: A mix of all-purpose flour and cornstarch helps achieve that perfect crunch. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free all-purpose flour and check that your cornstarch is gluten-free as well.
Mayonnaise: Standard mayonnaise creates a creamy base for the sauce, but you can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version. For a vegan alternative, use a plant-based mayo.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds sweetness and spice to the sauce. If you can’t find it, you can mix garlic and sugar with some hot sauce to replicate the flavor, though it won’t be the same!
How Do I Get My Chicken Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture is all about the coating and frying technique! Here’s how to do it right:
- Double-Dip: For extra crunch, double-dip your chicken. Dip in the egg mixture, then flour, then back in the egg and flour again!
- Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C). If it’s too cold, the chicken will absorb oil and get soggy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in batches to prevent the temperature from dropping. Overcrowding the pan leads to uneven cooking and less crispy chicken.
Following these tips should help you achieve a deliciously crispy Bang Bang Chicken!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk or buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Spicy Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tbsp sweet chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 tsp sriracha sauce (adjust spiciness as desired)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes prepping the ingredients and coating the chicken, and then about 15-20 minutes frying and making the sauce. It’s quick, fun, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give your chicken a flavorful and crispy coating. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the egg mixture. Let any excess drip off before dredging it in the flour mixture, making sure it’s all covered. For an extra crispy coating, feel free to double-dip: back into the egg and then into the flour again!
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep frying pan or wok, pour enough vegetable oil to reach about 1.5 to 2 inches deep. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). To check if it’s ready, drop a pinch of the flour mixture into the oil; if it bubbles and floats, the oil is hot enough.
4. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil in small batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 4-6 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, turning occasionally for even cooking. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain it on paper towels.
5. Make the Sauce:
While your chicken is frying, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder in a bowl until smooth and well combined. You can always adjust the amount of sriracha to fit your spice preference!
6. Combine:
Once all of your chicken is fried, place it in a large bowl. Pour the bang bang sauce over the chicken and gently toss it until all pieces are evenly coated in the delicious sauce.
7. Serve:
Transfer the coated chicken to a serving plate. For a lovely presentation, garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if you’d like. Serve immediately while crispy, and enjoy your tasty meal!
Enjoy your crispy, spicy, tangy Bang Bang Chicken! This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or simple stir-fried vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking! Thaw chicken by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or using the quick method of submerging it in cold water (in a leak-proof bag) for about an hour. Pat it dry before coating for the best results!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Sauce?
If you want a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for mayonnaise! For a vegan option, use plant-based mayonnaise or cashew cream. Just remember that any substitution may slightly alter the flavor and consistency of the sauce.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken crispy, consider reheating it in the oven or an air fryer rather than the microwave, which can make it soggy.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bang bang sauce a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using it to combine any ingredients that may have settled. This will help the flavors meld beautifully!
