Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors, crunchy textures, and creamy, spicy sauce, then this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is just what you need. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, with a vibrant, homemade bang bang sauce that ties every bite together. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, this dish comes together quickly without sacrificing any of the deliciousness you crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for nailing the true flavor and crunch of the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe. Every component, from the seasonings in the flour to the punchy bang bang sauce, plays a role in creating that addictive combination of spicy, sweet, and creamy.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh chicken for the best tenderness and flavor.
• 1 cup buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick perfectly.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of your crispy coating for that irresistible crunch.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky sweetness and beautiful color.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory depth without overpowering the dish.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes and gives a mild bite.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds just the right hint of heat and complexity.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Choose an oil with a high smoke point for perfect frying results.
• ½ cup mayonnaise (for sauce): Creates a creamy, rich base for the bang bang sauce.
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Brings a sweet and tangy punch.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce: Adds a fiery kick—adjust to your spice preference.
• 1 teaspoon honey: Balances heat with a touch of natural sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Brightens the sauce with a subtle acidity.

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 yet crucial step helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring every bite stays juicy and soft on the inside once fried.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

While the chicken marinates, mix all your dry seasoning ingredients with the flour—paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will deliver the flavorful, crispy crust that’s the hallmark of the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour enough vegetable oil into a large skillet so the bottom is covered well, then heat it over medium-high. The right temperature—hot enough for a golden crisp but not burning—sets up the perfect frying environment.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the buttermilk bath, letting any excess drip off, and dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture. This ensures every nook and cranny is enveloped in that deliciously spiced crust.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil. Fry for about 5 to 7 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and fry for another 5 to 7 minutes. The result should be a wonderfully crisp exterior with fully cooked, juicy chicken inside.

Step 6: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While your chicken is frying, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. This sauce is the star player—creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy all rolled into one irresistible coating.

Step 7: Drain the Chicken

Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain off excess oil. This step keeps the chicken crisp and avoids sogginess, so every bite stays crunchy.

Step 8: Slice the Chicken

Once the chicken has cooled just a little, slice it into strips. This makes it easier to serve and lets that bang bang sauce cling to every piece more evenly.

Step 9: Serve with Sauce

Generously drizzle your homemade bang bang sauce over the sliced chicken or toss the strips directly in the sauce to coat each piece. This final touch ensures you get that perfect balance of crispiness and creamy spice with every forkful.

How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or cilantro adds a fresh, vibrant contrast to the creamy spice of the bang bang sauce. For a bit of crunch, toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced red chili can elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with simple steamed jasmine rice or a fragrant coconut rice to soak up that luscious sauce. For a healthier option, serve alongside crisp, fresh vegetables or a tangy Asian slaw which cuts through the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe to the next level by serving it lettuce wraps with avocado slices and a squeeze of lime. Alternatively, stack the chicken on a fluffy bao bun or toss with noodles for a fun, casual meal that’s sure to impress at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover crispy chicken strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days but are best enjoyed quickly to retain texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked, cooled chicken strips on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen properly, they should keep for up to one month, though the crispiness may soften somewhat upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to revive the crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that tends to make fried foods soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, and they work wonderfully in the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe. Just adjust cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

How spicy is this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

The spice level mainly comes from the sriracha in the sauce, which you can easily adjust to your taste. For a milder dish, reduce or omit the sriracha; for extra heat, add more.

Is it necessary to marinate in buttermilk?

Marinating in buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick better. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar works as a good substitute.

Can I bake this instead of frying?

You can bake the coated chicken at 425°F (220°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. It won’t be quite as crispy as frying but still delicious and a bit lighter.

What else can I do with leftover bang bang sauce?

Use leftover bang bang sauce as a dip for shrimp, veggies, or fries. It also makes a fantastic sandwich spread or a tangy dressing for salads to add a spicy kick.

Final Thoughts

You have to try this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that blends straightforward cooking with unforgettable flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving a weeknight family dinner or showing off your kitchen skills, it’s a recipe that hits all the right notes and will gladly become a favorite you come back to again and again.

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