Your taste buds are in for a treat with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken! This dish features tender chicken pieces coated in a crunchy batter and drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce. Yum!
I love how easy it is to whip up at home. Perfect for a quick dinner or for impressing guests. Don’t be surprised if you finish off an entire batch—they’re that good! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness. However, chicken breasts also work well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using air-fried or baked chicken pieces.
Flour and Cornstarch: The combo helps create that super crispy texture. You can swap regular flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste. If you’re gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch.
Buttermilk: It adds moisture and tenderness to the chicken. Don’t have it? You can make a quick substitute by mixing regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise is the base, but you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Adjust the sriracha to your liking—more for heat or less for a milder flavor. Honey is great, but maple syrup can be a fun alternative.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Crispy Texture?
Getting that crispy crunch is key to this dish. It all comes down to proper coating and frying. Here’s how to nail it:
- Ensure each chicken piece is thoroughly coated in the egg mixture first. This helps the flour mixture stick.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch; it’s critical for that crunch! It creates a great outer layer when fried.
- Keep the oil temperature steady. If it’s too low, the chicken will absorb oil and get soggy. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks.
- Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Using these tips will help you achieve that delightful, crispy outer layer everyone loves! Enjoy making your Bang Bang Chicken! 🌟
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp sriracha sauce (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. This will create the crunchy coating for your chicken!
2. Mix the Egg Batter:
In another bowl, beat the eggs and add the buttermilk. This mixture will help the flour coating stick to the chicken. Give it a good whisk!
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take a piece of chicken, dip it into the egg mixture first, letting the excess drip off, then dredge it in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is fully coated. This is what gives you that crispy texture!
4. Heat Up the Oil:
In a deep pan or skillet, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom (about 1-2 inches deep) over medium-high heat or until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). A good test is to drop a small piece of the batter in—it should sizzle.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
6. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is frying, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Adjust the sriracha to your taste for that perfect spice kick.
7. Toss or Drizzle:
Once all the chicken is fried and crispy, toss it in the Bang Bang sauce until well coated. Alternatively, you can drizzle the sauce over the chicken for a beautiful presentation.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken immediately as an appetizer or main dish! It goes wonderfully with steamed rice or a fresh salad on the side.
With its fantastic combination of crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to thaw it completely first. The best way to do this is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Be sure to pat it dry before coating for the best crispy texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the chicken better than reheating in the microwave!
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Bang Bang Sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving, and feel free to adjust the spice levels if needed!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Sauce?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for mayonnaise. You can also use a vegan mayonnaise if you’re avoiding eggs and dairy. Just be sure to taste and adjust the other ingredients as needed for the best flavor!
Feel free to reach out with any more questions or for additional tips on making this delicious dish!
