Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

If you love crispy, golden fried chicken with a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce, then this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe is a must-try! With a perfectly crunchy coating and bold Bang Bang sauce, this dish is ideal for appetizers, game day, or a flavorful weeknight meal.

🛒 Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

To make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, you’ll need:

🍗 For the Crispy Chicken

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil for frying

🌶 For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

🌿 Optional Garnishes

• Chopped green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping

🍽️ Substitutions for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Chicken alternative: Use shrimp or tofu for a different protein.
• Gluten-free option: Swap flour and panko for gluten-free alternatives.
• Dairy-free version: Use almond milk instead of buttermilk.
• Less spicy: Reduce sriracha and cayenne.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Follow these simple steps to make the best crispy Bang Bang Chicken:

1. Prep the chicken: In a bowl, season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.
2. Set up a dredging station:
   • Bowl 1: Mix flour and cornstarch.
   • Bowl 2: Whisk egg and buttermilk.
   • Bowl 3: Add panko breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the chicken: Dip each piece in flour mixture, then buttermilk mixture, and finally coat with panko.
4. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel.
6. Make the Bang Bang sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, vinegar, and garlic powder.
7. Toss chicken in sauce or drizzle it over the top.
8. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds and serve immediately!

🌟 Mix-ins for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Sautéed bell peppers – for added crunch.
• Pineapple chunks – for a sweet twist.
• Chopped peanuts – for extra texture.
• Lettuce wraps – for a low-carb option.

✅ Recipe Tips for the Best Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Double coat for extra crunch.
• Use cornstarch for lighter, crispier chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan to keep the oil temperature steady.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before tossing in the sauce.

🥶 Storage Instructions for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze uncooked breaded chicken for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Air fry at 375°F for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.

🔄 Recipe Variations for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Bang Bang Shrimp: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
• Oven-Baked Bang Bang Chicken: Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken: Cook at 375°F for 12 minutes, shaking halfway.
• Bang Bang Chicken Tacos: Serve in tortillas with slaw.

❓ FAQs About Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the chicken and sauce separately, then fry when ready to serve.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works best for crispy results.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

What should I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

It pairs well with rice, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or in a wrap!