Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy panko-crusted chicken tenderloins with a rich, homemade bang bang sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main course, the unique flavor and satisfying crunch make Bang Bang Chicken a standout option for dinner parties or casual weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep and only 6 minutes of cooking time, you can have this delicious dish ready in no time.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade bang bang sauce combines sweetness with just the right amount of heat, elevating the chicken’s taste.
• Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs create a crunchy coating that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken inside.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy Bang Bang Chicken on its own, in wraps, or over salads for various meal options.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make Bang Bang Chicken efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items you’ll need to prepare this tasty dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Shallow dish
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: This allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: Ensures even cooking and crispiness for the chicken.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping chicken while frying without compromising its crispy coating.

Ingredients

Bang Bang Chicken is panko-crusted chicken tenderloins deep-fried to a crispy golden brown, drizzled with homemade bang bang sauce.

For the Sauce

• 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
• ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup (245 g) buttermilk
• ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (64 g) cornstarch
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs (plain)
• Canola oil (for frying)
• Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. Adjust Sriracha according to your desired spice level. Set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a shallow dish, pour the buttermilk over the chicken tenderloins. Allow them to marinate for at least 10 minutes. This step helps keep the chicken moist.

Step 3: Prepare Breading Station

In another shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In yet another bowl, beat the large egg with one tablespoon of Sriracha.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

1. Remove each tenderloin from buttermilk; let excess drip off.
2. Dredge in flour mixture until coated evenly.
3. Dip into egg mixture and then coat with panko breadcrumbs thoroughly.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Heat canola oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry breaded tenderloins for about 6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to flip them halfway through cooking.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Drizzle generously with bang bang sauce and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

As a Standalone Dish

• Perfectly crispy and flavorful on its own, Bang Bang Chicken makes for a satisfying main course.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create fresh tacos, adding shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of extra bang bang sauce for added flavor.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

With Salad

• Pair your Bang Bang Chicken with a crisp green salad. The freshness of the vegetables complements the rich flavors of the chicken.

In a Wrap

• Roll up the chicken with avocado, cucumber, and your choice of sauce in a tortilla for a tasty wrap that’s easy to eat on the go.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

Getting your Bang Bang Chicken just right requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve crispy and flavorful results every time.

• Choose quality chicken: Use fresh boneless skinless tenderloins for the best texture and flavor.
• Marinate properly: Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes before cooking for extra tenderness.
• Coat evenly: Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in flour and panko breadcrumbs for that perfect crunch.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keep the frying oil at around 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying; this prevents soggy chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches so that each piece cooks evenly and maintains its crispiness.
• Drizzle generously with sauce: For an authentic experience, don’t hold back on drizzling the homemade bang bang sauce over your chicken before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken

When serving Bang Bang Chicken, complement it with side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A crunchy side that adds flavor and is perfect for dipping into extra sauce.

2. Coleslaw
   A creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances well with the spicy chicken.

3. Stir-Fried Vegetables
   Colorful stir-fried vegetables bring freshness and nutrition to your meal.

4. Coconut Rice
   The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs beautifully with the spicy elements of Bang Bang Chicken.

5. French Fries
   Crispy fries offer a classic comfort food pairing that’s always a hit.

6. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad packed with veggies adds healthiness and texture alongside your main dish.

7. Sweet Potato Wedges
   Baked sweet potato wedges create a delicious contrast to the crispy chicken while adding sweetness.

8. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is an easy side that complements almost any meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bang Bang Chicken can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not using enough seasoning: Many skip seasoning the flour or breadcrumbs. Ensure you season each layer for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches for crispy results.
• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk enhances tenderness and flavor. Don’t rush this important step.
• Inconsistent oil temperature: If the oil is too hot or cold, the chicken won’t cook evenly. Use a thermometer to maintain proper frying temperature.
• Ignoring garnish: A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances presentation. Always finish your dish with a fresh touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but it may lose crispiness.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally to retain crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Bang Bang Chicken.

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is panko-crusted chicken tenderloins that are deep-fried until crispy and drizzled with a creamy homemade sauce.

How can I make healthier Bang Bang Chicken?

To make a healthier version, consider baking instead of frying or using air fryer settings. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the sauce.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can use shrimp or tofu as alternatives for a delicious twist on this recipe.

What should I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with rice, salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The bang bang sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is an irresistible recipe that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its crispy texture combined with the creamy sauce makes it perfect for appetizers or main courses. Feel free to customize it by adding more spice or trying different proteins—this dish is versatile and sure to impress your family and friends!