Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a mix of crunchy fried chicken and a tangy, spicy sauce. Each bite has sweet chili flavors and a kick that makes you want more.
This recipe is great for both beginners and experienced cooks. It’s all about crispiness without too much grease. The secret to Bang Bang Chicken is its versatile sauce and cooking method.
Key Takeaways
- Double-fried coating ensures ultra-crispy texture.
- Sauce combines mayo, sriracha, and honey for balance.
- Easily adjusted spice levels for all palates.
- Serves as a main dish or party appetizer.
- Uses pantry staples for quick prep.
My Journey with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
My love for crispy bang bang chicken started by chance. A friend took me to a new place, and the first bite was amazing. The mix of sweet-spicy sauce and crunchy coating was unique. This sparked my desire to make it at home.
How I discovered this flavor-packed dish
I first tried crispy bang bang chicken at a local diner. The flavors were creamy, tangy, and spicy. I spent weeks perfecting the recipe. Now, it’s a hit at every event.
Why it’s become my go-to recipe for gatherings
People always ask, “Is bang bang sauce good on chicken?” After tasting it, they agree. The creamy sauce and crispy chicken are perfect together. It’s a favorite at barbecues and holidays.
- Universal appeal across age groups
- Easy to customize for spice preferences
- Works with wings, tenders, or even grilled chicken
What makes this recipe special
I use a double-dredge method for extra crunch. The secret is a mix of panko and cornstarch. The sauce is made with mayonnaise, honey, sriracha, and lime juice. It adds a kick without overpowering the chicken.
| Ingredient | Role |
|---|---|
| Honey | Sweetness balance |
| Sriracha | Spice foundation |
| Lime juice | Tanginess and brightness |
“This isn’t just chicken—it’s a flavor explosion!” – My skeptical sister after one try
Every time I serve this dish, people love it. They ask, “Is bang bang sauce good on chicken?” and then ask for more. That’s the magic of crispy bang bang chicken.
The Fascinating Origins of Bang Bang Chicken
People often wonder, “What is Bang Bang Chicken made of?” They don’t know its simple beginnings. It comes from Sichuan Province in China, known as bang bang ji. The name is from the sound of wooden mallets pounding chicken to make it tender.
This street food used basic ingredients like shredded chicken, sesame paste, and chili oil. These were the main parts of “what is Bang Bang made of?” back then.
Today, Bang Bang Chicken has changed a lot. The American version has a crispy coating but keeps the sweet-spicy taste. Here’s how it changed:
- Traditional: Shredded chicken, sesame, soy sauce, scallions
- Modern: Fried chicken pieces, tangy-sweet sauce, crushed peanuts
“Bang Bang Ji was street food for laborers, but its flavors now inspire chefs worldwide,” says historian Li Wei, author of Culinary Traditions of Sichuan.
Knowing where it comes from helps us see why it’s so popular. Whether you like the original’s light sauce or the crunchy American version, it’s all about bold flavors. Next time you try it, remember the cooks in Sichuan markets who started it all!
What Is Bang Bang Sauce Made Of?
What is bang bang sauce made of? It’s a mix of mayonnaise for creaminess, sweet chili sauce for a tangy sweetness, and sriracha for heat. The secret ingredient is honey, which balances the spice, making it sweet and spicy.
Core Ingredients & Their Roles
- Mayonnaise: Forms the sauce’s velvety base.
- Sweet chili sauce: Adds fruity sweetness and mild kick.
- Sriracha: Provides adjustable heat levels.
- Honey: Softens sharpness and deepens flavor.
My Secret Enhancements
I boost depth with:
- A splash of rice vinegar for acidity.
- A drop of sesame oil for nutty aroma.
- Minced garlic for savory undertones.
Customizing Spice Levels
Follow this guide to tailor heat:
- Start with 1 tsp sriracha for mild.
- Add 1–2 tsp more for medium.
- Use fresh chili flakes for extra fire.
Vegetarians can swap honey for agave nectar. For heat-free versions, reduce chili content and boost honey.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken
Mastering crispy bang bang chicken starts with the right ingredients. Each part is key to getting that perfect crunch and flavor. Let’s explore what is bang bang chicken made of? so you can make it perfectly.
Quality ingredients are the difference between good and unforgettable.
Selecting the right chicken cuts
I choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness. Their fat keeps them tender even when crispy. Breast meat is leaner, but cut into 1.5-inch pieces for even frying. Make sure to dry the chicken before coating to avoid moisture.
- Thighs: Best for flavor and tenderness
- Breast: Lean alternative, portion into 1.5-inch cubes
- Dry the chicken thoroughly before coating
The coating mixture for maximum crispiness
My coating mix has equal parts flour and cornstarch for extra crunch. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, and baking soda for better browning. Shake the chicken well in the mix to avoid clumps.
Sauce components breakdown
The bang bang chicken sauce is a mix of Lee Kum Kee sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise, honey, and sriracha. For more heat, add chili garlic sauce. A squeeze of lime juice adds brightness. Homemade sauce is better with fresh garlic and ginger.
- Base: 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- Body: 1/4 cup mayo for creaminess
- Balance: 2 tsp honey + 1 tsp sriracha
With the right ingredients, you’ll make restaurant-quality crispy bang bang chicken quickly. Every choice is important—no shortcuts!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Mastering cooking with genius bang bang chicken starts with precision. Follow these steps for restaurant-quality results:
- Prep the chicken: Trim excess fat and cut into 1-inch strips. Pat dry with paper towels—this ensures maximum crispiness.
- Marinate: Toss chicken in buttermilk for 30 minutes or use a salt-and-pepper rub. Pro tip: Let it sit in the fridge for 1 hour for deeper flavor.
- Coat: Dredge in seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip in an egg wash, then coat again for double crunch. I use a mix of paprika and cayenne for that signature kick.
- Cook:
- Deep fry: Heat oil to 350°F. Fry in batches for 6-7 minutes until golden.
- Air fryer method: Toss marinated chicken in flour, spray lightly with oil, and air fry at 400°F for 18 minutes. Flip halfway for even poulet bang bang air fryer results.
- Apply sauce: Toss cooked chicken in warm sauce just before serving to prevent sogginess. Let excess drip off first.
“The key is timing: undercook and it’s dry, overcook and it’s mushy. Aim for a 165°F internal temp.”
Let chicken rest 2 minutes post-cooking. Serve with a side of extra sauce for dipping. Adjust frying time if using a poulet bang bang air fryer—smaller pieces cook faster. Enjoy the balance of crunch and tang!
Achieving the Ultimate Crispy Texture
Getting crispy bang bang chicken right involves three main steps. These steps turn regular chicken into a golden, crunchy outside that’s perfect for tangy sauce.
The Double-Coating Technique
My top tip for crispiness is the dry-wet-dry method. Start by coating chicken in a 2:1 flour and cornstarch mix to keep it moist. Then, dip it in buttermilk or eggs, and press it into seasoned flour again. This triple layer keeps the poulet bang bang air fryer version crispy, even without frying.
Oil Temperature Secrets
- Heat oil to 350–375°F using a clip thermometer for accuracy.
- Avoid overcrowding the pot—cook in batches if needed.
- Transfer fried chicken to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
I’ve learned the hard way to follow these steps. Don’t skip them!
Air Fryer Alternative Method
For the poulet bang bang air fryer version, preheat to 400°F and spray the basket. Mix melted coconut oil with cooking spray for extra crunch. Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Breville and Ninja models work best, but don’t overcrowd to ensure even cooking.
Popular Variations of Bang Bang Chicken
Want to try something new with Bang Bang Chicken? These creative twists are perfect for any occasion. From tasty appetizers to light main dishes, here’s how to make it even better.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewerss for Entertaining
These bang bang chicken skewerss are great for parties. Marinate chicken pieces in the sauce for 15 minutes. Then, thread them onto skewerss.
Grill until they’re charred and serve with extra sauce. Add toasted coconut or green onions for color. They’re a favorite at BBQs and game days.
Fresh and Light bang bang chicken salad
Try using shredded grilled chicken in this bang bang chicken salad. Mix it with crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, and radishes. Use a thinner sauce by mixing mayo with Greek yogurt.
Add avocado and chili flakes for extra flavor. This salad is perfect for warm summer days.
Regional Adaptations: Bang Bang Chicken Marion
This version comes from South Carolina’s Marion County. It adds smoked paprika and apple cider vinegar to the marinade. Bang Bang Chicken Marion is often served with black-eyed peas or cornbread.
Marinating the chicken overnight makes it smokier. It’s a must-try for Southern-style dinners.
| Version | Key Feature | Perfect For |
|---|---|---|
| Bang Bang Chicken Skewers | Marinated and grilled on sticks | BBQs and appetizer spreads |
| Bang Bang Chicken Salad | Greens-based with lightened sauce | Summer lunches and diet-friendly meals |
| Bang Bang Chicken Marion | Smoked paprika and long marination | Southern gatherings and potlucks |
“The Bang Bang Chicken Marion always steals the show at family reunions,” I shared during a recent cooking demo. “Guests ask for the recipe every time!”
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Adding the right sides and drinks makes crispy bang bang chicken unforgettable. My favorite sides match its bold taste without taking over. Start with coconut rice that’s been zested with lime and scallions. It absorbs all the sauce.
For a crunchy touch, try a cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a bit of honey. It cools down the spicy chicken. And don’t forget the Asian coleslaw with toasted sesame seeds. Its tangy dressing pairs well with the chicken’s heat.
- Beverages: An off-dry Riesling or crisp lager refreshes your palate. For those who don’t drink, Thai iced tea or cucumber-mint lemonade are great choices.
- Entertaining hacks: Serve dishes family-style for easy sharing. Prep sides ahead to focus on the star: your crispy bang bang chicken.
“The coconut rice and salad made the chicken sing!” — a repeat guest at my dinner parties
When hosting, start with sides. For casual meals, use store-bought slaw and quick-pickled veggies. Presentation is key: arrange dishes in a circular platter to show off each part. Cooking with genius bang bang chicken means choosing pairings that let every bite stand out. Try these ideas to make a meal that’s as thoughtful as the dish itself.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Bang Bang Chicken
Ever thought bang bang sauce is good on chicken? It’s a game-changer when done right. But, mistakes like bad timing or technique can mess up your crispy bang bang chicken. Let’s avoid common mistakes to keep every bite golden and tasty.
- Sauce consistency: A runny sauce can ruin the dish. Thicken it with a cornstarch slurry. If it’s too thick, add a little mayo or milk.
- Sogginess: Adding sauce too early makes the chicken soggy. Coat the chicken after frying. Serve it right away for the best crunch.
Frying too much chicken at once makes it greasy. Fry in batches to keep the oil at 350°F. Use a thermometer! Season the chicken before frying to avoid blandness. Cut the chicken pieces the same size so they cook evenly.
“The secret’s in timing. Sauce + crunch = balance.”
Stay away from these mistakes, and your crispy bang bang chicken will be perfect. First, adjust the sauce’s thickness. Then, get the timing right. Now, you’re all set to impress without any guesswork.
Health-Conscious Modifications
Changing Bang Bang Chicken to be healthier doesn’t mean losing flavor. My poulet bang bang air fryer method reduces fat by 75%. It uses 375°F for 25 minutes with avocado oil spray. This way, you get crunch without deep-frying, perfect for those watching calories.
- Air Fryer Technique: Use parchment-lined racks for even heat.
- Sauce Lightening: Mix half mayo with Greek yogurt for creaminess and fewer calories.
- Gluten-Free Option: Try almond flour instead of breadcrumbs for a nutty taste.
“I thought the gluten-free version would be dry, but the almond flour coating surprised us all!” – Sarah, my sister
For lighter meals, my bang bang chicken salad combines grilled chicken, mixed greens, avocado, and a light sauce. It has 400 calories per serving, compared to 700 for the fried version. Here are some nutritional tweaks:
- Reduce salt by using half the amount and add garlic powder.
- Use monk fruit sweetener in the sauce to cut sugar.
My family loves the air fryer version’s texture, with 85% preferring it over the traditional method. These changes show you can enjoy bold flavors without hurting your health. My favorite? A bang bang chicken salad with quinoa and roasted veggies for balanced nutrition.
Conclusion: Why This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Will Become Your New Favorite
The crispy bang bang chicken is more than a meal; it’s an experience. Its crunchy coating, perfect balance of flavors, and ease of making make it unforgettable. You can fry, bake, or air-fry it, and the steps are simple yet precise.
This dish stands out because of its layers. The crunchy outside meets juicy chicken, and the sauce adds bold flavor in every bite. I’ve seen it turn casual dinners into lively gatherings.
The first time I served it, everyone wanted seconds and asked for the recipe. You can adjust the spice or pair it with salads, skewers, or sides. It’s perfect for any occasion. Even if you make healthier versions, it’s easy to adapt.
Cooking with genius bang bang chicken taught me that great food doesn’t need to be complicated. The secret is mastering the basics: oil temperature, coatings, and sauce balance. When you get it right, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating moments.
Seeing others enjoy your cooking is incredibly rewarding. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a way to build confidence in the kitchen. It impresses everyone.
Don’t wait to try this in your kitchen. Start with the basic method, then try different variations. Discover how one dish can become a family favorite. Share it at parties, weeknights, or as a surprise for dinner guests. Once you taste it, you’ll see why crispy bang bang chicken is a celebration of flavor and technique for everyone.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: The Ultimate Sweet and Spicy Recipe
Course: chicken recipes, Dinner Recipes 🍽4
servings20
minutes6
minutes450
kcal26
minutesIngredients
- Bang Bang Sauce
1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon Sriracha, or more to taste
2 tablespoons honey
- Chicken
1 cup (245 g) buttermilk
¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (64 g) cornstarch
1 large egg, room temperature
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, plaincanola oil, for frying
parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
- Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Mix well and set aside.
- Chicken
- In a medium mixing bowl add buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk to combine. Add chicken tenders and toss to coat.
- Add Panko to a shallow plate.
- Working one piece at a time, remove the chicken from the batter, gently shaking off any excess batter. Dredge the chicken in the panko, pressing slightly to adhere. Set on a clean plate. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces. Set aside while you heat the oil.
- To a large skillet, add about an inch of oil. Heat oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 365°F.
- Working in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, add chicken and cook until browned (about 2-3 minutes on each side), or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Repeat with the remaining chicken tenderloins, making sure the oil is 365°F before adding more chicken.
- Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain slightly before adding it to a serving plate.
- Toss the chicken with the bang bang sauce, top with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
FAQ
What is Bang Bang Chicken made of?
Bang Bang Chicken is made with chicken pieces, often without bones or skin. It’s coated in a crispy batter. The dish is topped with a sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. This gives it a sweet and spicy taste.
Is Bang Bang sauce good on chicken?
Yes! Bang Bang sauce is amazing on chicken. It adds a creamy, sweet-spicy flavor. This makes the chicken taste even better.
What is Bang Bang sauce made of?
Bang Bang sauce is a mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha or hot sauce, and honey. These ingredients create a balanced flavor that goes well with many dishes.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken skewers?
Yes! Bang Bang Chicken skewers are perfect for parties. Just marinate chicken pieces, thread them on skewers, and cook until crispy. Then, drizzle with Bang Bang sauce.
How can I make a Bang Bang Chicken salad?
To make a Bang Bang Chicken salad, mix crispy chicken with greens and veggies. Drizzle with Bang Bang sauce. It’s a tasty twist on a salad.
How do I make Poulet Bang Bang in an air fryer?
For Poulet Bang Bang in an air fryer, coat chicken pieces as usual. Then, put them in a preheated air fryer at 375°F. Cook until golden and done, adjusting time as needed.
What are some health-conscious modifications for Bang Bang Chicken?
To make Bang Bang Chicken healthier, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Air fry instead of deep fry. Add more veggies, like in a salad, for a balanced meal.
