As I sat at my kitchen table, I could hear the faint sizzle of chicken frying in the pan—a comforting melody that instantly transported me to takeout nights with friends. The star of the show? My Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, a dish that redefines comfort food with its creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between crispy and tender, making it an instant crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to whip up as it is satisfying to devour. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving something delicious after a busy day, this versatile dish can be fried, baked, or air-fried to perfection. Ready to create your own explosion of flavors? Let’s dive into the steps that will transform your weeknight meals!

Why is Bang Bang Chicken a Must-Try?

Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze to follow, making it perfect for all skill levels!

Crispy Delight: The Panko crust adds an irresistible crunch, setting it apart from typical comfort food.

Versatile Cooking Methods: Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken fried, baked, or air-fried, catering to your preferences for a quick meal.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce brings joy to every bite, making it a hit at gatherings.

Make-Ahead Option: Prep the chicken and sauce in advance for effortless weeknight dinners, saving you time without compromising on flavor.

This dish truly embodies everything you love about homemade recipes, similar to Bang Bang Chicken Skewers but with its own unique flair!

Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients

Get ready to whip up this delightful dish!

For the Sauce

Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the sauce; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides sweetness and mild heat; look for brands like Frank’s for authentic flavor.
Hot Sauce – Adds spice; Sriracha is recommended for that extra kick.
Honey – Sweetens the sauce naturally; maple syrup can be used as a substitute.

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; boneless and skinless is preferred for tenderness.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the batter, ensuring delightful crunchiness.
Cornstarch – Enhances the crispiness of the fried chicken; can be substituted with potato starch.
Buttermilk – Creates a flavorful batter; mix milk with vinegar as a quick substitute.
Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth to the batter; fresh minced garlic can elevate the flavor.
Smoked Paprika – Provides a mild smokiness; regular paprika works in a pinch.
Egg – Binds the batter ingredients together for a cohesive coating.
Panko Breadcrumbs – Ensures a crispy coating; you can use regular breadcrumbs for a different texture.

For Cooking

Vegetable Oil – Used for frying; ensure it’s hot enough for that perfect crispiness.

Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients for your Bang Bang Chicken, you’re just one step away from adding an explosion of flavor to your dining table! Let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, and honey. Whisk until the mixture is creamy and well blended. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate while you prepare the chicken. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your Bang Bang Chicken.

Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually add in the buttermilk and beaten egg, mixing until you achieve a smooth, thick batter with no lumps. This batter will coat the chicken, giving it that delicious crunch once fried. Ensure it’s ready to create the perfect coating for your Bang Bang Chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Dip each piece thoroughly into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off. Ensure that every piece is well coated to lock in moisture and flavor, preparing it for a crispy exterior that complements the soft interior of your Bang Bang Chicken.

Step 4: Prepare Panko
Pour Panko breadcrumbs into a shallow dish. This is where the magic happens—once each chicken piece is coated in batter, you’ll dredge them in the Panko for an extra crunchy texture. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy crunch; keep your Panko breadcrumbs close as you move to the next step.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, ensuring it’s hot enough by testing with a small amount of batter—should sizzle immediately. Carefully dredge each battered chicken piece in Panko and fry for about 3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and cooked through. Watch for that inviting golden color; this is what makes your Bang Bang Chicken irresistible!

Step 6: Drizzle with Sauce
Once the chicken is crisp and golden, remove it from the skillet and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Drizzle generously with the chilling sauce straight from the fridge, allowing the creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors to coat each piece. Now, your Bang Bang Chicken is ready to serve, promising a delightful flavor explosion!

Expert Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken

Oil Temperature Check: Ensure the oil is hot enough for frying by dropping a small amount of batter in. It should sizzle immediately to achieve the perfect crispy texture.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the chicken in small batches to prevent lowering the oil temperature, which can lead to soggy chicken instead of crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
Perfect Panko Coating: Press the Panko breadcrumbs firmly onto the battered chicken to enhance the crunchiness. This helps create that delightful coating you crave!
Make it Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance—this dish can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, adding convenience to your weeknight meals.
Experiment with Spice: Adjust the heat level in the sauce to suit your taste. Add extra hot sauce or chili flakes for a spicier kick, or reduce for a milder version.
Oven or Air Fryer Option: For a healthier twist, consider baking or air frying the chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly for a delicious alternative to traditional frying.

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Chicken bites are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can easily coat the chicken pieces and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before frying, which allows the batter to adhere beautifully, enhancing texture and flavor. Additionally, the creamy sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring that it’s ready when you are. To finish off the dish, simply fry the chicken when you are ready to serve, resulting in a crispy delight that’s just as delicious as freshly made. This prep-ahead strategy not only saves time but also elevates your meal to something special!

How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain its crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag after an hour. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat thawed chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, use an air fryer for a few minutes until heated through.
Make-Ahead: You can prep and coat the chicken pieces early in the day. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before cooking, ensuring convenience on busy nights!

What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Transform your meal into a feast that every family member will love through delightful pairings that complement the flavors of your chicken masterpiece.

Fluffy White Rice: Acts as a perfect canvas to soak up the creamy sauce while balancing the dish’s richness.
Crisp Garden Salad: Refreshing greens with a light vinaigrette provide a sharp contrast to the crispy chicken’s richness, enhancing every bite.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasted goodness pairs wonderfully with the spicy chicken, offering a comforting touch to your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: A bite of crisp, tender broccoli brings freshness and nutrients, harmonizing with the meal’s indulgent elements.
Thai Mango Salad: This light and zesty salad adds a hint of sweetness and tang, beautifully offsetting the creamy sauce. A burst of flavor that keeps your taste buds dancing!
Cold Beer or Sparkling Water: Pairing with a refreshing drink helps cut through the richness of the sauce—perfect for a casual dinner with friends.
Chocolate Mocha Cake: Finish on a sweet note with this rich dessert, serving as a delightful end to a lovely meal. The flavors will linger sweetly!

Elevate your dining experience by combining your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with these delightful sides for a spread that feels truly special.

Bang Bang Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Bang Bang Chicken! Here are some suggestions to customize this delightful dish to your taste.

Thighs Instead of Breasts: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more succulent texture. The extra fat from thighs ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.
Spice It Up: Increase the heat by adding extra hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Nutty Crunch: Mix in some crushed peanuts or sesame seeds into the Panko breadcrumbs for added flavor and a delightful crunch. This variation adds an exciting texture that elevates the dish.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs to create a gluten-free version of this crispy favorite. You’ll barely notice the difference!
Baking Alternative: For a healthier twist, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack for about 20-25 minutes. This provides a crispy exterior without the need for frying.
Sauce Twist: Replace some of the mayonnaise in the sauce with avocado for a creamy, healthier alternative. It adds a unique flavor and lush green color!
Vegan Version: Use tofu or seitan in place of chicken, and substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based yogurt for the sauce. This keeps the flavor bold and satisfying while accommodating vegan diets.
Air Fryer Delight: If you own an air fryer, try cooking the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes for a crispy finish with significantly less oil.

Dive into these variations and enjoy how a simple tweak can transform your Bang Bang Chicken into a new favorited delight. And if you’re looking for even more inspiration, check out my recipes including Bang Bang Salmon or Hawaiian Chicken Sheet for more delicious ideas!

Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Bang Bang Chicken?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender texture. However, chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier result. The choice depends on your personal preference!

How should I select ripe ingredients for the sauce?
For the best flavor, choose a mayonnaise brand that you enjoy (I love using Hellmann’s) and select sweet chili sauce that is fresh with no separation. For hot sauce, Sriracha is a fantastic pick that harmonizes beautifully with the other ingredients.

How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing it to help maintain its crispy texture. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore that satisfying crunch!

Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet to firm up for about an hour. Then, transfer the pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat for perfect crispiness!

What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy?
If your chicken isn’t as crispy as you’d like, ensure your oil is sufficiently heated before frying; a test with a small batter piece should sizzle right away. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this lowers the temperature and can lead to a soggy texture. Fry in batches for the best results!

Is Bang Bang Chicken suitable for dietary restrictions?
While this recipe is not gluten-free due to the flour and Panko breadcrumbs, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Always check the ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially if serving to guests with dietary restrictions.