Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Bang Bang Chicken! This dish is a delightful explosion of flavor that’s not just spicy but also wonderfully creamy and tangy. I first tried it at a little Asian restaurant in town, and I was instantly hooked. The crispy chicken combined with that luscious sauce just dances on your taste buds! Trust me, whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a cozy night in with a delicious meal, Bang Bang Chicken is the way to go. It’s easy to whip up and always brings a smile to my face. You’ll love how the crispy texture pairs with the rich sauce; it’s pure comfort food with a kick! Let’s dive into making this unforgettable dish together!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create the mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken. I promise, these ingredients come together beautifully to make each bite unforgettable!
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced into thin pieces for that perfect crisp
- 1 cup cornstarch, for that light and crispy coating
- 1 egg, beaten to help the breadcrumbs stick
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, because we want maximum crunch!
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, the creamy base of our sauce
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, for a touch of sweetness
- 1 tablespoon sriracha, add more if you like it extra spicy!
- 1 tablespoon lime juice, to brighten up the flavors
- Salt and pepper to taste, because seasoning is key!
- Oil for frying, enough to coat the bottom of your pan
These ingredients are pretty simple, but together they create something magical. Trust me, once you have them ready, you’ll be well on your way to a delightful dinner!
How to Prepare Bang Bang Chicken
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the exciting process of making Bang Bang Chicken! It’s super straightforward, and I promise it’s worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
Step 1 – Seasoning the Chicken
First things first, you’ll want to season your sliced chicken breast with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This step is crucial because it adds flavor right at the base. I like to sprinkle a bit more than I think I need—don’t be shy! Just give it a good toss to ensure all the pieces are well-coated.
Step 2 – Breading the Chicken
Next up is the fun part: breading! Grab three shallow bowls. In the first, add your cornstarch; in the second, the beaten egg; and in the third, pile up those lovely panko breadcrumbs. Take each seasoned chicken slice, dip it into the cornstarch first, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dunk it in the egg, allowing any excess to drip off before tossing it into the panko. Press down gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well. Repeat until all the chicken slices are breaded—your hands will get a bit messy, but that’s part of the fun!
Step 3 – Frying the Chicken
Now, let’s get frying! Heat oil in a pan over medium heat—enough to cover the bottom but not too deep. You’ll know it’s hot enough when a breadcrumb dropped into the oil sizzles right away. Carefully place the breaded chicken slices into the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Oh, the smell will be heavenly!
Step 4 – Making the Sauce
While your chicken is frying, it’s a great time to whip up the sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy. This sauce is what takes the Bang Bang Chicken to the next level, so don’t skip this step!
Step 5 – Tossing the Chicken
Once your chicken is perfectly fried, and your kitchen smells like a dream, it’s time to toss! Place the crispy chicken in a large bowl, pour the sauce over the top, and give it a gentle toss until every piece is beautifully coated. Trust me; you’ll want to lick the bowl clean—it’s that good! Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, spicy goodness of your homemade Bang Bang Chicken!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the numbers behind this delicious Bang Bang Chicken! While it’s packed with flavor, it’s also good to know what you’re putting on your plate. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for one serving:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
These values can vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect. So, go ahead and indulge in this crispy delight—it’s all about balance, right?
Tips for Success
Alright, let me share some of my favorite tips to make your Bang Bang Chicken absolutely perfect! These little nuggets of wisdom can elevate your dish from great to extraordinary.
- Adjusting the Heat: If you want to dial up the spice, feel free to add more sriracha to the sauce. I love a good kick, so I often toss in an extra teaspoon! On the flip side, if you’re serving this to kids or anyone who prefers milder flavors, you can tone it down by using less sriracha or even skipping it altogether.
- Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying your chicken! Frying in smaller batches ensures that each piece gets that golden brown color and stays crispy. Trust me, it makes a huge difference!
- Serving Suggestions: Bang Bang Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crunchy veggies like cucumber or carrots for a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken. And don’t forget some extra sauce on the side for dipping—people will love it!
- Leftover Magic: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare but can happen!), try adding them to a stir-fry or tossing them into a salad the next day. It gives a fantastic twist to another meal!
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: To ensure your chicken is cooked through but still juicy, use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C) when done. This little tool is a game-changer!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make the most amazing Bang Bang Chicken ever! Happy cooking!
Variations of Bang Bang Chicken
If you’re like me and love to get creative in the kitchen, you’ll be thrilled to know there are so many fun variations of Bang Bang Chicken! It’s one of those dishes that’s super flexible, so feel free to mix it up based on your cravings or what you have on hand.
- Different Sauces: While the classic sauce is to die for, why not experiment? Try a peanut sauce for a nutty twist, or a spicy garlic sauce if you’re feeling adventurous! You can even go tropical with a mango salsa topping—just imagine that sweet and spicy combo!
- Herb Infusion: Add some fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. You can also toss some chopped green onions on top before serving for a refreshing crunch!
- Vegetarian Version: For a meat-free option, swap the chicken for crispy tofu or even cauliflower! Just follow the same breading and frying process, and you’ll have a delectable plant-based Bang Bang dish that everyone will enjoy.
- Wrap It Up: Turn your Bang Bang Chicken into a delicious wrap! Just take some tortillas, add the chicken, drizzle with sauce, and throw in some crunchy veggies. It’s a perfect on-the-go lunch or dinner!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a heat lover, try adding chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce directly into the sauce. You can also play with different chili sauces to find your perfect balance of spice!
These variations keep Bang Bang Chicken exciting and new every time you make it! So don’t hesitate to get a little wild and create your own version that suits your taste buds. Happy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious Bang Bang Chicken fresh for later. If you happen to have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a bit of a miracle), you’ll want to store them properly to maintain that wonderful flavor and crunch!
First, allow the chicken to cool completely before packing it up. I usually place it in an airtight container. This will keep the moisture in but still allow some air to circulate, preventing sogginess. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days—just make sure it’s well sealed! If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to label it, so you know what deliciousness awaits you later!
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key. I recommend using the oven or an air fryer for the best results. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spread the chicken out on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until it’s warmed through and the coating is crispy again. If you’re using an air fryer, set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 5-7 minutes, keeping an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overcook.
Microwaving is a quicker option, but it can make the chicken a bit soggy, so I’d save that for when you’re in a hurry. Just pop it in for 30-second intervals until heated through, and you might want to skip the sauce if you go this route to preserve that crunch.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every bite of your Bang Bang Chicken, even the next day! Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
FAQ Section
Got questions about Bang Bang Chicken? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into some of the most common queries I get about this flavorful dish.
How can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?
Great question! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. You’ll also want to check the labels on your sauces to ensure they’re gluten-free, especially the mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce. With these small changes, you can enjoy all the deliciousness without any gluten!
What are the best side dishes to serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
Oh, there are so many tasty options! Bang Bang Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for a fragrant touch. You could also serve it with a refreshing cucumber salad or a zesty slaw to balance out the spiciness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it alongside some crispy spring rolls or even a light Asian noodle salad. Trust me, everyone will be coming back for more!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! I recommend preparing the chicken and breading it ahead of time, then frying it just before you plan to serve it. This way, you’ll have that crispy texture that makes Bang Bang Chicken so enjoyable. If you want to make the sauce in advance, go for it! Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to toss everything together.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before slicing and seasoning it. Cooking frozen chicken directly can lead to uneven cooking, and we want that beautiful, crispy texture on the outside. So thaw it out, and then you’re good to go!
How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?
The spice level can definitely be adjusted to your liking! The base recipe gives you a nice kick from the sriracha, but if you’re not a fan of too much heat, feel free to reduce the amount or omit it altogether. On the other hand, if you love the spice, you can always add more! It’s all about what works for you!
What’s the secret to crispy chicken?
Ah, the ultimate question! The secret lies in the breading process and the frying temperature. Make sure each piece of chicken is well-coated in cornstarch, egg, and panko, and fry them at medium heat—too hot, and they’ll burn; too cool, and they’ll get soggy. You want that stunning golden brown color and a super crunchy texture!
Hopefully, this FAQ section clears up any confusion and gets you excited to whip up your very own Bang Bang Chicken! If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken: 5 Steps to Delicious Comfort Food
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Bang Bang Chicken is a spicy, flavorful dish featuring crispy chicken tossed in a creamy, tangy sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Dip chicken slices in cornstarch, then in beaten egg, and finally in panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice.
- Toss fried chicken in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust the spiciness by changing the amount of sriracha.
- Serve with rice or salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Bang Bang Chicken, Spicy Chicken, Asian Chicken Dish