Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a dish that brilliantly combines a satisfyingly crunchy texture with a burst of spicy-sweet flavor, the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe takes that classic comfort food you adore and elevates it with a luscious bang bang sauce that clings to every crispy bite. It manages to be both impressive enough for guests and simple enough for a weeknight dinner, making it a fast favorite in my kitchen. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s one of the most talked-about crispy chicken dishes that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is half the fun and guarantees that perfect crispy texture and bold flavor. Each element plays a crucial role; from tenderizing the chicken to creating a coating that crisps up beautifully, every ingredient helps build layers of flavor.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a lean and tender base.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Essential for marinating, it tenderizes chicken and adds subtle tang.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the crispy coating after seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky warmth and beautiful color to the coating.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the crust with savory depth.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Complements garlic with aromatic sweetness.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all other flavors in the coating.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper: Offers a mild heat that balances the palette.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Provides the crispy finish when heated to the right temperature.
• ½ cup mayonnaise (for sauce): Creamy base of the bang bang sauce for richness.
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Brings sweetness and gentle heat.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce: Adds punchy spiciness; adjust to taste.
• 1 teaspoon honey: Balances spice with natural sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Gives a vinegary brightness to the sauce, cutting through richness.

How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by soaking your chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This simple step not only tenderizes the chicken beautifully but also keeps it juicy after frying. The acidic nature of the buttermilk gently breaks down proteins, setting the stage for that perfect texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

While the chicken luxuriates in its bath, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This seasoned flour mixture will create the flavorful crust that gives the chicken its signature crunch and a hint of smoky, aromatic spice.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Next, pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom in a thin layer. Heat it over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. The right oil temperature is critical to achieving that golden, crispy exterior without the chicken absorbing too much oil.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip back into the bowl. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well on all sides. This coating trap locks in moisture while frying and delivers that coveted crunch.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Place the coated chicken pieces carefully into the hot oil. Fry for about 5 to 7 minutes on one side until the underside turns a shimmering golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and extra crispy. The result is a crunchy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy chicken inside.

Step 6: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken fries, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. This bang bang sauce is where the magic happens, blending creamy, sweet, tangy, and spicy notes into the perfect partner for the crispy chicken.

Step 7: Drain and Slice the Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Let it cool slightly before slicing into strips, making it easier to serve and enjoy. The crispy edges paired with tender insides will be even more irresistible once sliced.

Step 8: Serve with the Bang Bang Sauce

Finally, drizzle your homemade bang bang sauce over the sliced chicken or toss the chicken strips lightly in the sauce for an even, flavorful coating. This finishing touch pulls the entire Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe together into a dish you’ll happily crave again and again.

How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Garnishing your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken adds freshness and a pop of color that brightens the plate. Try sprinkling chopped green onions or fresh cilantro on top to introduce a crisp, herbal note that balances the rich flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, complementary sides. Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy coconut rice soak up any extra bang bang sauce, while a crunchy Asian slaw or crisp cucumber salad lends refreshing contrast to the warm, crispy chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken as a party appetizer on skewers or as lettuce wraps for a light, hand-held option. You can also pile the chicken atop a bed of noodles or rice bowls to create a vibrant and satisfying meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Crispy Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken maintains its flavor for up to 3 days, but the crust may soften slightly—don’t worry, it’s still delicious!

Freezing

If you want to save the chicken for later, freezing is an option. Arrange the cooked, cooled chicken strips on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Consume within 1 month for best taste and texture.

Reheating

To bring the crispiness back, reheat leftover chicken strips in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve that satisfying crunch. Drizzle fresh bang bang sauce after reheating for a rejuvenated flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully for this recipe since they are naturally juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they cook through.

How spicy is the bang bang sauce?

The heat level is moderate and can be easily adjusted. If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the sriracha; for an extra kick, add more. It’s all about customizing to your taste buds.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Coat the chicken as usual and bake at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture will be less crispy but still delicious.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This simple swap mimics the acidity needed to tenderize the chicken.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! The chicken keeps well in the fridge, and the bang bang sauce can be mixed ahead of time. Just reheat the chicken properly and add fresh sauce before serving for tasty, convenient meals.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe enough—it’s that kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles and full plates. The exciting contrast of crunchy chicken with the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce is pure comfort food magic. So grab your ingredients, have fun in the kitchen, and get ready to enjoy one of the most crave-worthy recipes that will quickly become your go-to favorite.

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