Bang Bang Chicken

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Bang Bang Chicken is a delectable fusion dish, famous for its crispy chicken coated in a creamy, spicy, and sweet sauce. This recipe combines crispy fried chicken with a signature Bang Bang Sauce made of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Loved worldwide, it’s a perfect appetizer or main course for gatherings or a quick family dinner.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken:

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 cups plain panko breadcrumbs
  • Canola oil (for frying)
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
    • Whisk until smooth. Cover and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken Marinade:
    • In a medium bowl, combine buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper.
    • Whisk the mixture until smooth and consistent.
    • Add chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them marinate for 10 minutes.
  3. Coat the Chicken:
    • Place panko breadcrumbs on a plate.
    • Remove each chicken tender from the marinade and coat evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere.
    • Set coated chicken aside on a clean plate.
  4. Fry the Chicken:
    • Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to 365°F.
    • Fry chicken tenders in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. Drain and Toss:
    • Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
    • Toss the chicken tenders in the prepared Bang Bang Sauce until evenly coated.
  6. Garnish and Serve:
    • Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: ~350 per serving
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g

The Origin of Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is believed to have originated in Sichuan, China, where shredded chicken was traditionally served with a spicy, nutty sesame sauce. The name “Bang Bang” comes from the wooden stick or hammer used to tenderize the meat in the original version of the dish. Over time, the recipe evolved, particularly in Western cuisine, where it took on a different approach, featuring crispy fried chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. Today’s version of Bang Bang Chicken, popularized by restaurants like Bonefish Grill, features breaded and deep-fried chicken tossed in a zesty, creamy sauce made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha.

Why This Recipe is So Popular

The immense popularity of Bang Bang Chicken can be attributed to its irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, golden-brown chicken provides the perfect contrast to the creamy and slightly spicy sauce. It’s the ideal balance of savory, sweet, and spicy, making it a go-to recipe for those who love bold flavors. Additionally, the versatility of Bang Bang Chicken makes it a favorite for home cooks and chefs alike. It can be served as a standalone appetizer, wrapped in tacos, placed over salads, or even served with rice for a hearty meal. The quick and easy preparation further adds to its appeal, making it a dish that can be prepared for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

What Makes the Bang Bang Sauce Special?

The highlight of this dish is undeniably the Bang Bang sauce. This unique sauce is a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet blend that perfectly complements the crispy chicken. Its key ingredients include:

  • Mayonnaise – Provides a rich and creamy base.
  • Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and a mild kick.
  • Sriracha Sauce – Delivers heat and depth of flavor.
  • Honey – Balances the spice with a hint of natural sweetness.

Tips for Making the Best Bang Bang Chicken

1. Choose the Right Chicken Cut

Boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts work best for this recipe. They are easy to cut into bite-sized pieces and provide a tender, juicy bite when cooked properly.

2. Use Buttermilk for Marination

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and keeps it moist. Buttermilk also allows the breading to stick better, creating an extra crispy coating.

3. Double-Coating for Extra Crunch

Dredging the marinated chicken first in seasoned flour and cornstarch, and then in panko breadcrumbs, ensures a super crispy exterior. The cornstarch helps create a light and crunchy texture, while the panko breadcrumbs provide a golden, crispy finish.

4. Maintain the Right Oil Temperature

For the best results, the oil temperature should be around 365°F (185°C). Cooking the chicken at the right temperature ensures that it fries evenly without absorbing excess oil. If the oil is too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken is fully cooked. If it’s too cold, the chicken can turn greasy.

5. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce Just Before Serving

To keep the chicken crispy, toss it in the Bang Bang sauce just before serving. If left too long, the sauce can soften the crispy coating. Alternatively, you can serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Ways to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

  • As an Appetizer: Serve it on a platter with toothpicks for dipping. This makes it perfect for parties and gatherings.
  • In Tacos: Add the crispy chicken to a warm tortilla, top it with shredded cabbage, diced avocado, and a drizzle of Bang Bang sauce for a delicious taco experience.
  • Over a Salad: Place the chicken over a bed of fresh greens with sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of the sauce for a refreshing meal.
  • With Rice: Pair the chicken with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete, satisfying meal.
  • In a Wrap: Wrap it in a flour tortilla with lettuce, tomatoes, and extra sauce for an easy, on-the-go lunch.

Variations of Bang Bang Chicken

If you love Bang Bang Chicken but want to try different variations, consider these options:

  • Baked Bang Bang Chicken: Instead of frying, bake the breaded chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This version is a healthier alternative without sacrificing crispiness.
  • Air-Fried Bang Bang Chicken: Use an air fryer to achieve a crispy texture with less oil. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  • Spicy Bang Bang Chicken: Add extra heat by increasing the amount of Sriracha or mixing in crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Gluten-Free Bang Bang Chicken: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken is an irresistible dish that combines crispy, golden-fried chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce. Its popularity stems from its balance of textures and flavors, making it a favorite among food lovers. Whether served as an appetizer, in tacos, or over a salad, this dish is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, Bang Bang Chicken is a fantastic recipe for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or game-day gatherings. By experimenting with variations such as baking or air-frying, you can tailor the recipe to fit different dietary preferences.

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