Name: Crispy Bang Bang Chicken that Will Ignite Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts; 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (For coating); 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1 tsp Paprika; 1 tsp Salt; 1/2 tsp Black Pepper; 2 large Eggs (Beaten); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (For crunch); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce; 1-2 tbsp Sriracha (To taste); 1 tbsp Honey; 1 tbsp Lime Juice (Freshly squeezed)

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As I stood there, eagerly waiting for the crispy sounds of frying to fill the kitchen, I couldn’t help but think about the incredible flavors coming together in my Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. This dish is a beautiful marriage of sweet and spicy, featuring pieces of chicken that are expertly coated in golden breadcrumbs—a true delight for any palate. Not only is it a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, but it comes together in just around 35 minutes. That means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones. With its perfect crunch and irresistible sauce, I promise it’s a recipe that will elevate your dinner table. Ready to whip up this delicious dish and surprise everyone with your culinary skills? Let’s dive in!

Why is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken a must-try?

Irresistible Crunch: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and frying creates a perfect, golden, crispy coating that will keep you coming back for more.

Flavor Explosion: With a balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy in every bite, this dish is a taste sensation that tantalizes your palate.

Quick and Easy: Made in just 35 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without a long prep time.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will impress everyone and leave them asking for seconds—just like my delicious Poblano Chicken Tacos!

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite protein or try a vegetarian twist with tofu.

Get ready to elevate your cooking game with this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken!

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients

The key to that delightful crunch and flavor lies in the ingredients!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless pieces ensure a tender, juicy center.
All-Purpose Flour – Coating that helps form the crispy crust when fried.
Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Onion Powder – Provides a subtle sweetness that complements the spices.
Paprika – Contributes both color and a mild earthy flavor to the mix.
Salt – Essential for amplifying the flavors of the chicken.
Black Pepper – Brings a gentle heat that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Eggs – These act as the wonderful binding agent, ensuring the breadcrumbs stick well.
Panko Breadcrumbs – For a light, airy crunch that makes each bite irresistible.

For the Frying

Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying, achieving that perfect crispiness.

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise – The creamy base that ties the sauce together beautifully.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Delivers unmistakable sweetness and a hint of heat.
Sriracha – Adjust according to your spice preference for an added kick.
Honey – Enhances sweetness and provides a lovely balance to the sauce.
Lime Juice – Brightens the entire dish with a zesty pop, elevating the flavors.

Ready to create your own Crispy Bang Bang Chicken that will leave everyone craving more? Let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps achieve a crispy texture during frying. Set the chicken aside while you prepare the coating.

Step 2: Make the Seasoned Flour
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This combination creates a flavorful seasoned flour that will give the chicken a delicious base layer. Ensure the mixture is well combined to evenly coat each piece of chicken later on.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg and Breadcrumb Breading Stations
In a separate bowl, beat a couple of eggs until blended. Arrange another bowl filled with panko breadcrumbs nearby. This three-step breading process will add that irresistible crunch to your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, so make sure everything is within arm’s reach for smooth workflow.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Coat each piece of chicken in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the liquid to cover the entire piece. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat this process until all the chicken pieces are coated and ready for frying.

Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or deep pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about half an inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating that it’s hot enough for frying—aim for a temperature of around 350°F. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy exterior on your Bang Bang Chicken.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place a batch of breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry each piece for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring they are fully cooked. Use tongs to flip the chicken gently for even browning.

Step 7: Drain and Prepare for Sauce
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This will keep the crispy texture intact while you prepare the mouthwatering Bang Bang sauce that will take your dish to the next level.

Step 8: Whisk the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Whisk the ingredients until smooth and fully blended. Adjust the Sriracha according to your desired spice level, as this sauce is what gives the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken its signature sweet and spicy flavor.

Step 9: Toss and Serve
Once the sauce is ready, place the crispy chicken pieces in a large bowl, pour the sauce over the chicken, and toss gently until every piece is evenly coated. Serve immediately while hot, optionally garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and color.

Expert Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Pat Dry Chicken: Ensure the chicken is patted dry before coating; this helps create a better crunch when frying.

Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a cooking thermometer to maintain the oil around 350°F; this prevents greasy chicken and ensures a perfect fry.

Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess.

Customize the Sauce: Adjust the Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to suit your taste, ensuring the spiciness matches your preference.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and ingredients enhance flavors; stale items can dull the dish’s vibrant taste.

These tips will ensure your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken turns out perfect every time!

What to Serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Creating a full meal around your crispy Bang Bang Chicken is an exciting way to indulge in an array of flavors and textures.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The subtly fragrant rice acts as a perfect base, soaking up any extra Bang Bang sauce for a delightful bite.
Crunchy Coleslaw: This refreshing side adds a cool, crunchy contrast to the chicken’s crispy texture, balancing the meal beautifully.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots brings vibrant flavors and additional nutrients to your table, complementing the spice of the chicken wonderfully.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the spicy, creamy sauce, creating a flavor combination that dances on your palate.
Green Salad with Sesame Dressing: Crisp greens dressed in a light sesame vinaigrette provide freshness, cutting through the richness of the chicken.
Smooth Coconut Milkshake: For a sweet, creamy drink option, a coconut milkshake will cool the heat from the peppery Bang Bang sauce while delighting your senses.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, this indulgent treat offers a rich, gooey surprise that rounds off the meal with a luxurious finish.

Pairing these delightful dishes with your crispy Bang Bang Chicken will surely create a memorable meal that satisfies every craving!

Make Ahead Options

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is an ideal dish for meal prep, allowing you to savor delicious homemade flavors with less stress on busy nights. You can marinate the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mix up to 24 hours ahead, storing them in the refrigerator to allow the spices to penetrate deeply. Additionally, prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days; this not only saves time but also enhances the flavors. To finish up, just fry the marinated chicken as per the recipe instructions when ready to serve, and toss it in your pre-made sauce for quick, restaurant-quality results!

Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Feel free to mix things up and tailor this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe to your taste buds—after all, cooking should be a joyful adventure!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu for a delicious vegetarian twist. Simply press and cube the tofu, then follow the same breading and frying steps—it’s just as satisfying!
** Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to create a gluten-free version. Enjoy the same delightful crunch without the gluten—everyone will love it!
Chili Twist: Swap Sriracha with chili garlic sauce for a different flavor profile. This alternative adds complex notes of garlic, enhancing the dish’s savory aspects.
Extra Crunch: Add crushed nuts, like peanuts or cashews, to the panko breadcrumb coating. This not only gives extra crunch but introduces a delightful nutty flavor!
Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers or broccoli when coating your chicken for added nutrition and a pop of color. Your plate will look as good as it tastes!
Sweet & Sour: For a different sauce experience, mix some pineapple juice into the Bang Bang sauce for a tangy, sweet finish that complements the spiciness beautifully.
Crispy Baked Alternative: Arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet and spray lightly with oil before baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. This method gives you a healthier and equally crunchy option.
Add Heat: If you love heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the seasoning mix or double the Sriracha in the sauce. Turn up the spice factor to match your cravings!

No matter how you choose to customize this dish, don’t forget to check out my tasty BBQ Chicken Pizza and Air Fryer Lemon Chicken recipes for more flavor-packed inspiration! Happy cooking!

Storage Tips for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the moisture and flavor of your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, avoid the microwave; instead, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This preserves the crispy texture of the coating.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy your frozen chicken, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to ensure even warming without compromising quality.

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for boneless, skinless pieces that are firm and plump with a light pink color. Avoid any that have dark spots or an off smell, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh chicken breasts will also have a good texture without being watery.

How long can I store leftovers of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Very! You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the chicken completely before sealing it to maintain the best flavor. To keep it even fresher, consider wrapping it in foil before placing it in the container.

Can I freeze Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Absolutely! For freezing, lay the cooked chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and place it in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until they’re solid. Then, transfer the pieces into a freezer-safe bag or container. The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date!

What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy after frying?
If your chicken ends up being less crispy than desired, it could be due to several factors. Firstly, make sure that the oil is hot enough—aim for around 350°F (175°C) before frying. Frying in batches helps maintain the oil temperature and avoid soggy results. If you pat the chicken dry before coating, it can also help the crust adhere better, giving you that crunchy texture.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! To make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can use almond flour or coconut flour for coating, and gluten-free panko is readily available in many grocery stores. Just ensure the sauces are also gluten-free—most sweet chili sauces and certain brands of Sriracha are, but it’s always good to double-check.

Is there anything I should be aware of for allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe contains common allergens like eggs, wheat (from the flour and breadcrumbs), and dairy (in the mayonnaise). If anyone has a specific allergy, you could use an egg substitute like flaxseed meal mixed with water, and swap the mayonnaise for dairy-free alternatives. Always read labels carefully when selecting your ingredients!