If you’re looking for a dish that’s both delicious and easy to whip up, you’ve come to the right place! Bang Bang Chicken is one of those recipes that always brings a smile to my face. The crispy panko-crusted chicken tenderloins paired with that creamy, spicy bang bang sauce create a flavor explosion that you simply can’t resist. Trust me, this recipe has quickly become a family favorite!

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, Bang Bang Chicken is perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to make, and everyone loves the crunch and flavor. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this tasty dish on the table in no time!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will savor the crispy goodness of Bang Bang Chicken.
Make-Ahead Option: Marinate the chicken in advance for even more flavor, making your cooking experience smooth!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of the sweet chili sauce and Sriracha creates a mouthwatering balance that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes this recipe even more special. You might already have some of these items in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your own Bang Bang Chicken:

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)

For Coating

2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs (plain)
Canola oil (for frying)
Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about Bang Bang Chicken is how flexible it is! You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences.

Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless turkey or tofu for a different twist!
Change up the sauce: Mix in some lime juice or garlic for an extra zing.
Make it spicy: Add more Sriracha or even diced jalapeños for heat lovers.
Add veggies: Toss in some sliced bell peppers or zucchini during frying for added crunch.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. This homemade bang bang sauce is not only easy to make but also elevates your chicken with its creamy texture and zesty kick. Whisk until smooth and set aside so the flavors can meld together.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken tenderloins in a bowl and pour in buttermilk. Allow them to soak for at least 10 minutes; this step helps tenderize the meat while adding moisture. Don’t rush this part—it’s key to juicy chicken!

Step 3: Set Up Your Dredging Station

In one bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. In another bowl, beat an egg with Sriracha until well combined. Finally, pour panko breadcrumbs into a third bowl. This setup makes coating your chicken so much easier!

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Take each tenderloin out of the buttermilk bath and let excess drip off. Dredge it first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture before finally coating it with panko breadcrumbs. This three-step process ensures an irresistible crunch once fried!

Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown

Heat canola oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot enough (you can test by dropping in a breadcrumb—if it sizzles, it’s ready!), carefully add coated chicken pieces in batches. Fry until golden brown and cooked through—about 6 minutes total! Use tongs to turn them halfway through cooking.

Step 6: Serve with Sauce

Once cooked, transfer your crispy Bang Bang Chicken onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your homemade bang bang sauce drizzled on top or as a dip on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley for that lovely pop of color!

I hope you enjoy making this scrumptious dish as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Making the perfect Bang Bang Chicken is all about technique and a few insider tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out deliciously every time!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality sauces make a noticeable difference in flavor. It enhances the overall taste and ensures a crispy texture.
Pat dry the chicken: Before marinating, patting the chicken tenderloins dry helps the buttermilk adhere better, resulting in a crispier coating when fried.
Control oil temperature: Maintaining the oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C) allows for even cooking and prevents greasy chicken. You can test this by dropping a few breadcrumbs into the oil; they should sizzle immediately.
Double-dip for extra crunch: For an extra crispy exterior, dip the chicken tenderloins in the egg mixture, then back into the flour and panko crumb mixture before frying. This creates a thicker crust that is irresistibly crunchy.
Serve immediately: Bang Bang Chicken is best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer while it’s hot and crispy! If you need to keep it warm, place it on a wire rack instead of paper towels to avoid steam buildup.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is not just tasty; it’s also visually appealing! Presenting this dish with thoughtful garnishes and side dishes can elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken.
Sesame seeds: Lightly toasted sesame seeds offer a nutty crunch that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

Crispy Asian slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette brings a crunchy texture that balances the richness of the chicken.
Steamed rice: Fluffy white or jasmine rice acts as a perfect base to soak up any excess bang bang sauce, enhancing every bite.
Roasted vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized can add nutritious value and vibrant colors to your plate.
Coconut curry soup: A warm bowl of coconut curry soup provides comforting flavors that harmonize well with the spicy kick from the bang bang sauce.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Bang Bang Chicken will not only impress guests but will also make mealtime feel special. Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Bang Bang Chicken is not just a delight to eat but also an excellent option for meal prep. You can whip up a batch in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

Place any uneaten Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ensure the sauce is stored separately to maintain crispiness.

Freezing

Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely before freezing.
Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Alternatively, you can use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for around 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Chicken!

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to enjoy this delicious dish without gluten.

What goes well with Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it as an appetizer at parties!

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The spiciness of your Bang Bang Chicken can be adjusted by varying the amount of Sriracha in the bang bang sauce. Start with less and add more if desired!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! You can use boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips for a similar texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find making this Bang Bang Chicken as enjoyable as it is to eat! It’s a special recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your sides, and remember that cooking is all about having fun! Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!

Bang Bang Chicken

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Category: Main
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Asian

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Description

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy, panko-crusted chicken tenderloins with a creamy and spicy homemade bang bang sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, making it a family favorite. The sweet chili sauce paired with Sriracha creates an irresistible flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more. With quick preparation and cooking times, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
2 tablespoons honey
1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
1 cup buttermilk
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 large egg
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
Canola oil (for frying)

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Instructions

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey to create the sauce. Set aside.
Marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 10 minutes.
Prepare three bowls: one with flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper; another with beaten egg and Sriracha; and the last with panko breadcrumbs.
Coat each chicken tenderloin first in the flour mixture, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat in panko.
Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden brown (about 6 minutes).
Drain on paper towels and serve warm with the bang bang sauce.