I've always loved how Crispy Bang Bang Chicken combines crunch and flavor in every bite. The secret's in the buttermilk marinade and the spicy-sweet sauce that ties it all together. It's one of those dishes that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you're serving it as a main or sharing it as an appetizer, it's sure to impress. Want to know how to get that perfect golden crisp? Let's get started.
What You'll Love About This Recipe
This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe is a perfect blend of crunch, flavor, and simplicity. You'll love it for its quick preparation and irresistible taste.
- Crispy Texture: The chicken is coated to perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Bold Flavors: The creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce adds a burst of flavor that's both tangy and sweet.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course, appetizer, or even in salads for a delicious twist.
Recipe
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the perfect balance of crunch and flavor, making it a favorite for any occasion. This recipe features tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy batter, drizzled with a creamy, slightly spicy Bang Bang sauce that's both tangy and sweet. It's an easy-to-make dish that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tbsp chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
- Marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
- Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey to make the Bang Bang sauce.
- Drizzle the sauce over the crispy chicken or serve it on the side.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Notes:
- For extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken by dipping it back into the buttermilk and flour mixture before frying.
- Adjust the sriracha to control the spiciness of the sauce.
Time:
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Serving: 4
Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Equipment
To make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, you'll need a few essential tools to guarantee the dish turns out perfectly. Here's what you'll need:
- A deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot for frying
- A mixing bowl for coating the chicken
- A whisk or fork for preparing the sauce
- Tongs for handling the chicken while frying
- A baking sheet lined with paper towels for draining excess oil
- A sharp knife and cutting board for slicing chicken and garnishes
Nutrition
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken offers a delightful balance of flavor and nutrition. This dish is packed with essential nutrients while being a treat for your taste buds.
- High in protein from chicken and eggs
- Rich in healthy fats from mayonnaise and sesame oil
- Contains vitamins and minerals from vegetables like carrots and cabbage
- Provides dietary fiber from fresh greens
- Moderate in carbohydrates from breading and optional rice pairing
What to Serve With This Recipe
I'm always looking for ways to make my meals more exciting, and pairing Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with the right sides can really take it to the next level. I love serving it with fluffy jasmine rice or tossing it over a bed of noodles for extra texture. Adding fresh veggies or a tangy salad balances the dish perfectly, and don't forget a side of dipping sauce for that extra kick!
Rice Varieties
When I'm making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, I always think about pairing it with the perfect rice to balance the flavors. I love using jasmine rice for its fragrant, slightly sweet taste that complements the dish's bold flavors. If I'm feeling a bit healthier, I'll go for brown rice—it's nutty and hearty, adding a nice texture contrast. Both options make the meal complete!
Vegetable Sides
Pairing Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with the right rice is great, but let's not forget about the veggies! I love serving roasted broccoli for its crispy texture and smoky flavor—it's a perfect contrast to the chicken's creaminess. Steamed carrots, tender and slightly sweet, add a pop of color and balance. Together, they make the meal feel fresh, wholesome, and complete.
Salad Options
Though Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is already a star on its own, adding a fresh salad can take the meal to the next level. I love tossing together leafy greens like spinach or romaine with a mix of fresh herbs like cilantro and mint. The crisp veggies balance the dish's richness perfectly. A simple vinaigrette ties it all together, making each bite feel light and satisfying. It's a match made in food heaven!
Noodle Pairings
If you're looking to add some hearty comfort to your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, noodles are a fantastic choice. I love tossing in spicy noodles for a kick that complements the dish's crunch and flavor. On warmer days, cold noodles are invigorating and balance the heat perfectly. Both options soak up the sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying. Noodles turn this meal into something truly special.
Dipping Sauces
Since the crispy crunch of Bang Bang Chicken is half the fun, I love adding dipping sauces to make each bite even more exciting. I enjoy experimenting with sauce variations, like spicy sriracha mayo, tangy sweet and sour, or creamy peanut sauce, to explore different flavor profiles. Each one brings something unique to the table, turning a simple meal into a flavor-packed adventure. It's a fun way to mix things up!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
I'd say you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Thigh benefits include more flavor and juiciness due to higher fat content. In a breast comparison, thighs are richer but still work well in most recipes.
Is There a Substitute for Sriracha in the Sauce?
Ever wondered what fiery twist you could add to your dish? I'd explore spicy alternatives like chili garlic sauce or gochujang for sauce variations—each brings bold heat and flavor without needing sriracha.
How Long Can I Store the Sauce in the Fridge?
I'd store the sauce in the fridge for up to a week to keep it fresh. The sauce shelf life depends on ingredients, but refrigeration duration guarantees it stays safe and flavorful for that time.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Gluten-free adaptations are easier than solving a puzzle blindfolded! For this recipe, I'd swap regular flour with rice flour or cornstarch for coating and use tamari instead of soy sauce as an alternative ingredient.
What's the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
I'd reheat leftovers by using microwave tips like covering them to lock in moisture or opting for oven methods to keep the texture crisp. I'd preheat the oven to 350°F and heat until warm.
