If you’re craving a dish that’s crispy, spicy, creamy, and packed with flavor, look no further than Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. This mouthwatering recipe features tender, golden-fried chicken coated in a crunchy panko crust and tossed in a creamy, sweet, and mildly spicy sauce. Whether served as an appetizer, wrapped in a taco, or paired with rice, this dish is sure to be a hit.
IIn this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken at home. First, we’ll explore its origins, followed by the best cooking methods, serving ideas, and even healthier variations. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have all the tips and tricks needed to whip up a batch of this irresistibly crispy dish. So, let’s dive in!
Now, let’s start with a little history behind Bang Bang Chicken and what makes it so special.
What is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Origins and History
Bang Bang Chicken may sound like a trendy, modern dish, but it actually has deep roots in Chinese cuisine. Traditionally, “Bang Bang Ji” (棒棒鸡) hails from Sichuan, China, and consists of shredded poached chicken doused in a spicy sesame-peanut sauce. The name comes from the method used to tenderize the chicken—chefs would bang the cooked chicken with a wooden stick before shredding it.
However, the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken we know today is a modern twist on this classic. Inspired by Asian flavors, this version features deep-fried chicken instead of poached meat, and it’s coated in a creamy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce made with mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. It’s essentially an Asian-inspired fried chicken dish with a fusion of American comfort food elements.
What Makes It Unique?
So, what sets Crispy Bang Bang Chicken apart from other fried chicken recipes? Let’s break it down:
🔹 Ultra-Crispy Coating – Thanks to panko breadcrumbs, this dish has an extra-crunchy texture that regular breadcrumbs can’t match.
🔸 Signature Bang Bang Sauce – A creamy blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors that takes fried chicken to the next level.
🔹 Quick & Easy to Make – You don’t need to be a pro chef! A simple marinade, crispy coating, and quick fry are all it takes.
🔸 Versatile Dish – Serve it as an appetizer, main dish, taco filling, or even over a salad. It’s a meal that fits any occasion.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to gather the ingredients and start cooking! In the next section, we’ll break down the must-have ingredients for making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken at home. Stay tuned!
Ingredients for the Best Bang Bang Chicken
Whipping up Crispy Bang Bang Chicken at home is surprisingly simple! First, the key to perfection lies in balancing bold seasonings, a crunchy golden coating, and the signature Bang Bang sauce. Next, with the right ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a restaurant-quality dish. Finally, once everything comes together, you’ll have a meal that’s guaranteed to impress!
Key Ingredients for the Crispy Chicken
For that signature crispy and juicy texture, you’ll need:
- Boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins (1½ lbs) – These cook evenly and stay moist. You can also use chicken breasts, cut into strips.
- Buttermilk (1 cup) – Helps tenderize the chicken and allows the coating to stick better.
- All-purpose flour (¾ cup) – The base for the batter, giving it a light structure.
- Cornstarch (½ cup) – Adds extra crunch to the coating.
- Egg (1 large) – Helps bind the flour mixture to the chicken.
- Panko breadcrumbs (2 cups) – A must for maximum crispiness! Regular breadcrumbs won’t give the same crunch.
- Sriracha (1 tbsp, optional) – Adds a hint of heat to the batter.
- Seasonings – Garlic powder (½ tsp), kosher salt (½ tsp), black pepper (¼ tsp), and a pinch of cayenne pepper (⅛ tsp) for extra spice.
- Canola oil – For frying. Any neutral oil with a high smoke point works, such as peanut or vegetable oil.
Essential Components of the Bang Bang Sauce
The heart of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is its sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mayonnaise (1 cup) – Forms the creamy base.
- Thai sweet chili sauce (½ cup) – Adds sweetness and a little tang.
- Sriracha (1 tsp, or more if you love heat) – Brings the spicy kick.
- Honey (2 tbsp) – Balances out the spice with a touch of sweetness.
Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Up next, we’ll go step by step to ensure your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken turns out perfect every time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a plate of golden, crunchy, and saucy chicken in no time!
Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
Before you start cooking the chicken, mix up the sauce so the flavors can meld.
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
- Whisk until smooth and set aside. This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two days.
Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the chicken tenderloins and coat them well.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour for extra tenderness).
Coat the Chicken for Maximum Crunch
Fry the Chicken to Perfection
- In a large skillet, heat about an inch of canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F.
2. Carefully place the coated chicken into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Toss in the Bang Bang Sauce & Serve
- Place the fried chicken in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the top and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot and crispy!
Now that your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is ready, what’s the best way to serve it? In the next section, we’ll explore different ways to enjoy this dish, from classic plating to creative meal ideas!
If you’re interested in more delicious chicken recipes, you might want to explore their Gordon Ramsay Chicken Parmesan for another tasty meal idea!
Alternative Cooking Methods – Healthier Options
While Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is traditionally deep-fried, there are healthier ways to enjoy this dish without sacrificing crunch or flavor. If you want to cut down on oil but still crave that crispy texture, try these alternative cooking methods.
Baked Bang Bang Chicken – Less Oil, Same Crunch
Baking is an excellent option for a lighter yet still crispy Bang Bang Chicken. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- After coating the chicken with panko breadcrumbs, arrange the pieces in a single layer on the sheet.
- Lightly spray the chicken with cooking oil to enhance crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Toss with Bang Bang sauce and serve immediately!
Baking reduces oil content while keeping the chicken crispy on the outside and juicy inside.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken – Crispy with Less Fat
An air fryer is perfect for making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with minimal oil. Follow these steps:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Lightly spray the chicken with oil and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Once golden and crispy, toss with Bang Bang sauce and serve.
This method results in a perfectly crispy texture while cutting down on excess grease.
Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Modifications
If you have dietary restrictions, try these simple swaps:
- For gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and replace all-purpose flour with a mix of cornstarch and almond flour.
- For dairy-free: Substitute buttermilk with unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice.
No matter which method you choose, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken will still be crunchy, flavorful, and downright delicious!
How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Now that you’ve made the perfect batch of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, how should you serve it? Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this mouthwatering dish.
Classic Plating as an Appetizer or Main Dish
If you’re serving it as an appetizer, arrange the chicken pieces on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Garnish with:
✔ Chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color
⭐ Extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping
✔ Sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added flavor
For a main dish, pair it with rice or veggies for a complete, satisfying meal.
Pairing with Rice, Noodles, or Salad
Want to turn Crispy Bang Bang Chicken into a full meal? Here are some pairing ideas:
- Over Rice: Serve it on a bed of jasmine rice and drizzle extra Bang Bang sauce on top.
- With Noodles: Toss it with stir-fried lo mein or ramen for an Asian-inspired dish.
- On a Salad: Slice the chicken and add it to a crisp salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light sesame dressing.
These options balance the richness of the sauce with fresh, light ingredients.
Bang Bang Chicken Tacos & Sandwiches
For a fun twist, use Crispy Bang Bang Chicken as a taco or sandwich filling:
🌮 Tacos: Place the chicken in soft flour tortillas, top with shredded cabbage, and drizzle with extra sauce.
🥪 Sandwich: Layer the chicken in a brioche bun with lettuce, pickles, and a dollop of Bang Bang sauce for an unforgettable crispy chicken sandwich.
No matter how you serve it, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Tips & Tricks for the Best Bang Bang Chicken
Making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken at home is easy, but a few expert tips can take your dish to the next level. From achieving the perfect crunch to enhancing the sauce, these tricks will ensure your chicken turns out delicious every time.
How to Keep the Chicken Crispy
✔ Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs won’t cut it. Therefore, Panko gives the coating an extra crispy texture, making it the best choice for this dish. In addition, it helps absorb less oil, keeping the chicken light and crunchy.
✔ Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: On the other hand, mixing cornstarch with flour helps create a light, crisp coating that doesn’t get soggy. Therefore, it’s essential for achieving the perfect crunch.
✔ Fry at the Right Temperature: Oil that’s too cool makes chicken greasy, while oil that’s too hot burns the coating. Keep the temperature around 365°F (185°C) for the best results.
✔ Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature and leads to uneven cooking. Fry in small batches to maintain crispiness.
✔ Drain on a Wire Rack, Not Paper Towels: Placing fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels prevents sogginess by allowing air to circulate around the pieces.
Perfecting the Sauce for Ideal Flavor Balance
✔Adjust the Spice Level: If you love heat, add extra Sriracha. However, if you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount or, alternatively, mix in a little extra honey for balance.
✔ Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, Thai sweet chili sauce, mayo, and honey should be fresh. In addition, using high-quality ingredients enhances the sauce’s balance of sweetness and spice.
✔ Toss the Chicken Right Before Serving: To keep the coating crispy, don’t toss the chicken in the sauce too early. Wait until just before serving.
✔ Extra Sauce on the Side: Moreover, if you love a saucy bite, serve extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping! This way, everyone can adjust the flavor to their liking.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
🚫 Skipping the Buttermilk Marinade: Unfortunately, this step is crucial for juicy, flavorful chicken. However, if you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute. This simple swap will still help tenderize the chicken and enhance its flavor.
🚫 Using Cold Chicken: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before frying. This prevents uneven cooking.
🚫 Not Letting the Batter Set: Once the chicken is coated, let it sit for a few minutes before frying. This helps the breading stick better and prevents it from falling off during cooking.
By following these tips, your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken will turn out perfectly golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor every time!
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftover Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, don’t worry! You can store and reheat it while keeping the texture as close to fresh as possible.
Best Storage Methods for Maximum Freshness
✔ Store the Chicken and Sauce Separately: To prevent soggy coating, don’t toss all the chicken in the sauce if you’re planning to save some for later. Store them separately and mix before serving.
✔ Refrigeration: To keep it fresh, place the fried chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Similarly, the sauce can be stored in a small airtight container for the same duration, ensuring it maintains its flavor and texture.
✔ Freezing Option: If you want to keep leftovers longer, freeze the cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.
How to Reheat Without Losing Crispiness
🔥 Oven Method (Best for Crispiness):
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Heat for 10-12 minutes or until crispy and warmed through.
⚡ Air Fryer Method (Quick & Crispy):
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken in the basket in a single layer.
- Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
💡 Avoid the Microwave! Microwaving makes the coating soggy. If you must use it, place the chicken on a paper towel and heat in short 20-second bursts, then crisp it up in a hot pan for a minute.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken just like it was freshly made!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When it comes to making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, many people have questions about the ingredients, sauce, and cooking process. Below are answers to some of the most common queries.
What is Bang Bang Chicken Made Of?
Traditional Bang Bang Chicken comes from Sichuan cuisine and is made with shredded, poached chicken covered in a spicy sesame-peanut sauce. However, the modern Crispy Bang Bang Chicken version features:
✔ Boneless chicken tenders – Typically marinated in buttermilk for tenderness.
⭐ Panko breadcrumbs – Creating that signature crispy, golden-brown coating.
✔ Bang Bang sauce – A sweet, spicy, and creamy blend of mayo, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha.
This fusion of flavors and textures makes it an irresistible dish!
What is Bang Bang Sauce Made Of?
The secret to Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is its bold, creamy sauce. Here’s what’s in it:
- Mayonnaise – Provides the rich, creamy base.
- Thai sweet chili sauce – Adds a balance of sweetness and tang.
- Sriracha – Brings the heat! Adjust to taste.
- Honey – Gives a hint of natural sweetness.
This sauce is super versatile—you can drizzle it on chicken, seafood, or even use it as a dipping sauce for fries!
Is Bang Bang Sauce Good on Chicken?
Absolutely! Thanks to its sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors, Bang Bang sauce pairs beautifully with the crispiness of fried chicken. Not only does it enhance the dish, but it also complements the chicken without overpowering its natural taste. Beyond that, you can use the sauce in several delicious ways:
✔ A dipping sauce for nuggets, fries, or shrimp.
⭐ A burger or sandwich spread for a spicy kick.
✔ A salad dressing when thinned out with a little lime juice.
How to Make Simply Cook Bang Bang Chicken?
For a quick and easy version of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, try this method:
- Skip the buttermilk marinade – Instead, season the chicken directly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Use pre-made breaded chicken tenders – Cook them in an air fryer or oven until crispy.
- Whisk up the Bang Bang sauce in just 2 minutes.
- Toss the cooked chicken in the sauce and serve immediately!
This shortcut version saves time while still delivering delicious flavor and crunch.
Final Thoughts on Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken at home is incredibly satisfying. It’s:
✔ Crunchy and flavorful – Thanks to the panko coating and perfectly balanced Bang Bang sauce.
⭐ Easy to make – Even if you’re a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof.
✔ Versatile – Serve it as an appetizer, over rice, in tacos, or even in a salad!
⭐ Customizable – Adjust the spice level, use alternative cooking methods, or tweak the sauce to your preference.
Try It & Share Your Thoughts!
Now that you know everything about Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, it’s time to put your skills to the test! Whip up a batch, enjoy the crunchy goodness, and don’t forget to share your experience.
📌 Have you tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out!