If you're craving something crispy and packed with flavor, you must try Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. This dish combines tender chicken with a rich, spicy sauce that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or just treating yourself, this recipe has you covered. Let me guide you step-by-step to create a delightful meal that everyone will love. Get ready for a taste adventure!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs provide an unrivaled crunch that makes each bite satisfying and delicious.
- Flavorful Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce blends creamy, sweet, and spicy elements, creating a perfect accompaniment that elevates the dish.
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe is simple and can be made in under an hour, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or entertaining.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even on a salad, making it a versatile choice for any meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
For the crispy Bang Bang chicken, I choose fresh chicken breast. This is key for a juicy bite. I cut the chicken into small pieces, making them easy to eat. The coating is my favorite part, combining flour, cornstarch, and spices. Each ingredient adds flavor and crunch.
I mix all the dry ingredients in a bowl. This includes flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Each spice plays a role. Garlic powder gives a nice kick, while paprika adds color.
Next, I prepare the eggs. Beaten eggs help the coating stick. Then, I grab panko breadcrumbs. They make the chicken extra crispy when fried.
For the Bang Bang sauce, I combine mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce. This mix is creamy and sweet. I add sriracha for heat, lime juice for a tangy touch, and a pinch of garlic powder. The sauce makes the dish pop with flavor.
These ingredients come together to create a dish that is sure to impress. Crispy Bang Bang chicken is perfect for any meal or gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
First, we need to make the coating for our chicken. In a large bowl, mix these dry ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Stir it all together until it blends well. This mix gives the chicken a crispy texture. Next, set up your breading station. You will need three shallow bowls:
1. One with the seasoned flour mix.
2. One with 2 beaten eggs.
3. The last bowl filled with 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs.
This setup helps you coat the chicken easily.
Coating and Frying the Chicken
Now, it’s time to coat the chicken. Take a piece of chicken and dip it into the flour mix first. Make sure it's fully coated. Next, dip it into the beaten egg, letting any extra drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs. Make sure it’s evenly coated. Place each piece on a clean plate.
Next, we need to fry the chicken. In a deep pan, add enough oil to cover the chicken halfway. Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C). You can test it by dropping a small breadcrumb into the oil. If it sizzles, the oil is ready.
Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in small batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each batch for about 5-7 minutes. You want the chicken to turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, put the chicken on paper towels to soak up extra oil.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken fries, let’s make the Bang Bang sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together these ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (you can adjust this for spice)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Taste your sauce and add more sriracha or salt if needed. This sauce adds a sweet and spicy kick to the chicken.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
Once the chicken is crispy and the sauce is ready, it's time to combine them. In a large bowl, toss the hot chicken pieces with the Bang Bang sauce. Make sure each piece is well coated and glistening. This final touch brings all the flavors together. Enjoy the crispy Bang Bang chicken right away!
Tips & Tricks
Frying Tips
To get crispy chicken, follow these steps:
- Use enough oil to cover the chicken halfway.
- Heat your oil to about 350°F (175°C).
- Always test the oil with a breadcrumb. If it sizzles, you're ready to fry.
- Fry in small batches. This helps keep the oil hot.
- Avoid overcrowding the frying pan. Too much chicken will lower the heat, making it soggy.
Sauce Adjustments
You can make the Bang Bang sauce your own by adjusting these key parts:
- For more spice, add extra sriracha.
- To tone down heat, reduce the sriracha amount.
- For creaminess, add more mayonnaise.
- Add lime juice for a fresh twist.
- Taste and adjust salt to suit your liking.
Presentation Tips
Make your dish look as good as it tastes:
- Serve the chicken on a nice platter.
- Drizzle extra Bang Bang sauce on top.
- Garnish with sliced green onions for color.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds for a crunchy finish.
- Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Pro Tips
- Use a Thermometer: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F or 175°C) for perfect frying. This will help achieve that crispy texture without overcooking the chicken.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, allow the chicken to rest on paper towels for a few minutes. This helps the coating set and keeps the chicken crispy.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to suit your heat preference. Adding a touch of honey can also enhance the sweetness!
- Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy chicken instead of crispy perfection!
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can switch up the protein in Bang Bang Chicken. Try shrimp for a seafood twist. Shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. Tofu is great for a vegetarian option. It adds protein without meat. For a lighter dish, use vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini. These options keep the dish exciting and suit different diets.
Sauce Variations
The sauce can change the whole dish. Instead of the classic Bang Bang sauce, try teriyaki sauce for a sweet flavor. Garlic aioli adds a creamy touch with a hint of garlic. You can also mix barbecue sauce for a smoky taste. Experimenting with sauces makes the meal fun and personal.
Cooking Methods
Frying gives you that crispy texture we love. But baking is a healthier choice. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the breaded chicken on the sheet and bake for about 20 minutes. Flip halfway through for even cooking. This method cuts down on oil but still delivers a tasty meal.
Storage Info
Leftovers
Store leftover crispy Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator right away. Keep it for up to three days. This helps keep the chicken fresh and tasty. Make sure to let it cool down first before sealing.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use an oven or air fryer. This keeps the chicken crispy. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. If using an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 5-7 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, let the chicken cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it using the oven or air fryer for best results.
FAQs
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a tasty dish that features crispy chicken bites. The dish has roots in Asian cuisine, known for its bold flavors. It often comes with a creamy, spicy sauce that makes each bite fun and exciting. The name "Bang Bang" hints at the sauce's kick and the crunch of the chicken.
How long does it take to make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken takes about 20 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you need about 50 minutes to create this delicious meal. You can enjoy it fresh and hot in under an hour.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can make Bang Bang Chicken in advance! You can prep the chicken and bread it a day before. Store the breaded chicken in the fridge. When you're ready to fry, just heat the oil and fry until crispy. This saves time and makes meal prep easier.
What can I serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Steamed rice or fried rice
- Fresh salad with light dressing
- Crispy spring rolls
- Roasted vegetables
- Coleslaw for a crunchy contrast
These sides will enhance your meal and make it more enjoyable!
This blog covers how to make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken from start to finish. You learned about key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips for frying and sauce adjustments. Remember, you can customize the dish with different proteins or cooking methods.
In the end, enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken, whether with friends or family. Try out variations and create your own unique version of this crowd-pleaser. Happy cooking!
