Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

If you are craving something that bursts with flavor, texture, and a little kick of heat all at once, you have to try this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe. This dish features tender, panko-crusted chicken that is fried to an irresistible golden crisp and then generously coated with a luscious, creamy bang bang sauce made with a perfect balance of Thai sweet chili, Sriracha, and honey. Every bite delivers crispy crunch, creamy richness, and a spicy-sweet finish that is downright addictive. It’s a true crowd-pleaser whether you’re making it for weeknight dinner or bringing something special to the table for friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Believe me when I say the ingredients here are simple staples, but each one plays a key role in building the incredible taste and texture of this crispy bang bang chicken. From the crunchy panko breadcrumbs to the zesty bang bang sauce, every component is essential for creating that perfect harmony of flavors and colors.

• Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for the bang bang sauce, adding richness and balance.
• Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds a sweet, fruity heat that defines the sauce.
• Sriracha: Brings a spicy kick that livens up both sauce and batter.
• Honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally to complement the spicy elements.
• Chicken tenderloins: The star of the dish, tender and perfectly sized for quick cook times.
• Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the batter stick brilliantly.
• Flour and cornstarch: Create the perfect crispy coating when combined with panko.
• Egg: Binds the batter together for even coating.
• Garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper: Infuse the batter with flavor complexity and a bit of heat.
• Panko breadcrumbs: The secret weapon for that unbeatable crunch.
• Canola oil: Ideal for deep frying, ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully.
• Parsley: Adds a fresh, bright garnish that lifts the finished dish.

How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

Start by mixing together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined. This sauce is the magic touch that brings everything together, delivering that creamy, spicy-sweet flavor that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 2: Marinate and Batter the Chicken

In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want an extra spicy boost. Toss the chicken tenderloins in this mixture, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. This step tenderizes the chicken while adding flavor and creating a batter that will cling perfectly to the panko.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken with Panko

Pour the panko breadcrumbs onto a shallow plate. Working with one chicken piece at a time, lift it from the batter, gently shake off any excess, and then press it firmly into the panko to coat every nook and cranny. Set the breaded tenders aside—this crunchy layer is what gives the chicken that signature crispiness.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat about an inch of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, frying for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid overcrowding the pan so each piece crisps up nicely. Once cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Toss with the Bang Bang Sauce and Garnish

Place the fried chicken tenders in a large bowl and drizzle the bang bang sauce over them, tossing gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Serve immediately while still warm and crispy for the best experience.

How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley not only adds a lovely splash of green visually but also adds a subtle herbaceous flavor that brightens the richness of the sauce. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced green onions for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is fantastic alongside light, fresh sides that complement its bold flavors. Think steamed jasmine rice, crunchy Asian slaw with a tangy dressing, or simply some crisp cucumber slices to balance the heat. Even a simple side of roasted vegetables can work wonders here.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party platter, serve the chicken on a bed of shredded lettuce or cabbage with small dipping bowls of extra bang bang sauce. You could also turn this into a vibrant wrap by adding the chicken and sauce into soft tortillas with crunchy veggies and fresh herbs. The possibilities are endless and always delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain the best texture and flavor. The chicken is best eaten within 3 days for maximum freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken tenders before tossing them in the sauce. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. The sauce is best made fresh, but you can keep a portion refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Reheating

To bring back the crispiness when reheating, avoid microwaving. Instead, warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Add the sauce fresh after reheating so the chicken stays perfectly crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! If using chicken breasts, slice them into strips about the size of tenderloins. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through without drying out.

Is the bang bang sauce very spicy?

The sauce has a lovely balance of sweetness and heat. The level of spiciness depends on how much Sriracha you add—feel free to adjust to your taste, adding less if you prefer mild or more for a real kick.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking is an option for a lighter version. Coat the chicken as instructed, then place on a greased baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. The texture won’t be quite as crispy, but still delicious!

What other sauces work well with this chicken?

If you want to try a different twist, a creamy ranch or blue cheese dip pairs nicely. But the hallmark here is the sweet and spicy bang bang sauce, so it’s worth experiencing it just as written at least once.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The bang bang sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving to bring it back together.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about homemade Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe. It’s a dish that combines incredible crunch, bold flavor, and that hit of heat and sweetness that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, this recipe is a guaranteed winner that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. So go ahead, try it today—you might just discover a new favorite comfort food!

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