Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

If you’re craving a dinner that combines the perfect crunch with a lively burst of spice, look no further than Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. This dish captures the best of both worlds, offering tender chicken coated in a golden, crispy crust, then drenched in a creamy, zesty sauce that dances on your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a surefire way to impress and satisfy every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• An addictive crunch: The crispy coating delivers a satisfying texture that makes every bite exciting.
• A bold flavor profile: The sauce masterfully blends sweet, spicy, and tangy notes for a dynamic taste.
• Quick and easy: It comes together in no time with simple steps and everyday ingredients.
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to adults tends to love this crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile serving options: Great on its own, over rice, or with a fresh salad for variety.

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create such a crave-worthy dish. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the crispy coating to the creamy, spicy sauce that ties everything together.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Choose boneless pieces for even cooking and tender bites.
• Cornstarch: The secret to achieving that crispy, golden coating.
• Eggs: Helps the coating stick perfectly to the chicken.
• Mayo or Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and helps balance the spice in the sauce.
• Sriracha or chili sauce: Brings the characteristic kick to the bang bang flavor.
• Honey or sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to complement the heat.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the savory dimension of the sauce and coating.
• Lime juice or vinegar: Injects brightness and a subtle tang to the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and rounding out flavors.
• Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect crispiness.

Variations for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

One of the best things about Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is how flexible it is. Feel free to switch up ingredients or techniques to suit your taste, dietary restrictions, or simply what you have on hand.

• Spicy upgrade: Add extra chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for more heat.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute cornstarch with rice flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
• Lightened-up version: Use baked or air-fried chicken instead of frying to cut down on oil.
• Protein swap: Try shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian twist.
• Dipping sauce twist: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the sauce for an herbal aroma.

How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring even cooking and plenty of crispy edges in every bite.

Step 2: Coat with Egg and Cornstarch

Whisk eggs in one bowl and place cornstarch in another. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then toss in cornstarch until completely coated for that signature crunch.

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry the chicken pieces in batches until crisp and golden brown, usually 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 4: Mix the Bang Bang Sauce

Combine mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy — this sauce is the hero of the dish!

Step 5: Toss Chicken in Sauce

Place the hot crispy chicken in a bowl and pour the sauce over it. Gently toss to coat every piece without losing that vital crunch.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Plate the crispy bang bang chicken right away to enjoy the wonderful crunch and flavor at their best.

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Dry chicken well: Pat the chicken pieces dry before using egg and cornstarch to help the coating stick better.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
• Use fresh oil: Fresh oil prevents off-flavors and ensures better texture.
• Adjust sauce thickness: Add a bit of water or more mayo to get the sauce to your preferred consistency.
• Serve immediately: Crispy texture is best enjoyed right out of the pan before the sauce softens the coating.

How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, cilantro, or toasted sesame seeds add an inviting pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair with steamed jasmine rice, garlic noodles, or a crisp Asian-style slaw to complement the crispy bang bang chicken perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chicken in lettuce wraps for a lighter bite or atop a bed of mixed greens drizzled with additional sauce for a fresh twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to retain its flavor and texture as best as possible.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month, but the crispy coating may lose some crunch.

Reheating

To revive the crispiness, reheat leftovers in a hot oven or air fryer rather than the microwave to avoid sogginess.

FAQs

What makes Crispy Bang Bang Chicken different from regular fried chicken?

The combination of a light, crispy cornstarch coating with a creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce creates a unique flavor and texture contrast that sets it apart.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap out regular cornstarch for a gluten-free flour or rice flour to keep the crunch without gluten.

Is this dish very spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted easily by controlling the amount of sriracha or chili sauce in the bang bang sauce, making it suitable for all heat preferences.

Can I bake instead of frying the chicken?

Absolutely! Baking or air frying is a healthier alternative that still yields a crispy texture, though frying delivers the crispiest results.

How long does it take to make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

From start to finish, this dish typically takes around 30 minutes, perfect for a quick yet impressive weeknight meal.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that combines irresistible crunch with a zesty, flavorful kick. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to bring excitement and satisfaction to your dinner table. So go ahead, try it out, and watch it become a beloved favorite in your kitchen!

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