Bang Bang Chicken – Crispy Chicken with Spicy Creamy Sauce

Bang bang chicken recipe

Hey there! If you’re like me and love crispy chicken with a spicy twist, then you’re going to absolutely fall for Bang Bang Chicken. This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also super fun to make. The combination of crispy chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or when you’re entertaining friends. Let’s dive in together and whip up this delicious meal!

Nutritional Benefits

One thing I love about making Bang Bang Chicken at home is that I can control what goes into it. Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps to keep you full and energized. The sauce is usually made with ingredients like mayonnaise and Sriracha, which can be customized to your liking. You can even swap out some of the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter option, giving you some extra probiotics without sacrificing flavor!

Fun Variations to Make

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the crispy coating if you or someone you know is avoiding gluten. It works just as well!
• Make it Spicier: If you’re a heat lover, add more Sriracha or even some chili flakes to the sauce. You can also top it off with chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Twist: Swap the chicken for crispy cauliflower or tofu for a tasty vegetarian option that’s just as satisfying!
• Serve it Over Rice: For a complete meal, serve the Bang Bang Chicken over rice or quinoa. It soaks up all that delicious sauce!

Easy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch!)
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set them aside while you prepare your breading stations.
2. In one bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, beat the eggs. And in a third bowl, pour in the breadcrumbs.
3. Coat each chicken piece in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs until it’s nicely coated.
4. In a large frying pan, heat about half an inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
5. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. Adjust the spiciness according to your taste!
7. Drizzle the sauce over the crispy chicken or toss them together in the bowl. Either way, you’re in for a treat!

Practical & Valuable Tips

• Don’t overcrowd your pan while frying! This keeps the oil hot and ensures that your chicken gets that beautiful crispy texture we all love.
• If you prefer baked chicken, you can place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and spray lightly with oil, then bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to keep them crispy!

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• A large frying pan or skillet (cast iron works wonderfully)
• Three mixing bowls for the battering process
• A plate for draining the fried chicken
• A whisk for mixing the sauce
• A pair of tongs for flipping the chicken

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the chicken and breading ahead of time. Just fry it just before serving to keep it crispy.
2. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs? No worries! You can crushed crackers, panko, or even rolled oats for a different texture.
3. Is there a way to make it less spicy? Absolutely! Use less Sriracha in the sauce, or substitute it with a mild sauce like BBQ for a different flavor.
4. Can I freeze the chicken? Yes! You can freeze the breaded chicken pieces. Just make sure they’re well packaged. Thaw before frying for best results.
5. What can I serve this with? It pairs well with steamed veggies, rice, or even a simple salad to balance the richness of the sauce.

bang bang chicken

Now that you’ve got all the steps to create your own Bang Bang Chicken, I can’t wait for you to try it! It’s such a fun dish to make, and your family will love it. If you try the recipe, be sure to share how it turned out or tag me on Pinterest! Happy cooking!