Name: Bang Bang Chicken: Crispy, Saucy, and Irresistible
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs (whisked); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Vegetable oil (for frying); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp honey; Chopped chives or green onions (for garnish)

If you love crispy, saucy, and flavor-packed chicken, then Bang Bang Chicken is about to become your new favorite dish. This popular restaurant-style appetizer features crunchy, golden-brown chicken bites coated in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet Bang Bang sauce. The combination of crispy texture and bold flavors makes it an instant crowd-pleaser.

I first discovered Bang Bang Chicken at a popular Asian-fusion restaurant, and after just one bite, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The key is in the perfect balance between crispiness and the iconic sauce that brings everything together. Whether you’re making it for game night, a party, or just a fun dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken

Crispy Perfection – The chicken is fried to golden-brown perfection, giving it an addictive crunch.
Signature Bang Bang Sauce – A creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that elevates the flavor.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a great homemade dish.
Great for Any Occasion – Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or party snack.
Customizable Spice Level – Adjust the heat to your liking by tweaking the sauce ingredients.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For the best Bang Bang Chicken, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breast or chicken thighs. Chicken breast gives you a leaner bite with a slightly firmer texture, while thighs are juicier and more flavorful. If you want extra tenderness, marinate the chicken in buttermilk before coating it in the batter.

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness. Smaller pieces also allow for better sauce coverage, so every bite is packed with flavor.

Options for Substitutions

If you need to adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs or preferences, here are some great substitution options:

Chicken Alternatives: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower for a vegetarian twist.
Flour Options: Use almond flour or gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.
Egg Substitute: If you’re avoiding eggs, use buttermilk or a flaxseed mixture to help the coating stick.
Healthier Cooking Method: Instead of deep frying, try air frying or baking for a lighter version.
Spice Level Adjustments: Reduce the Sriracha or add honey to tone down the heat in the sauce.

Ingredients for This Bang Bang Chicken

Each ingredient plays a key role in making this dish crispy, flavorful, and perfectly sauced. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces for easy frying and even coating.
Cornstarch & All-Purpose Flour – The combination creates a light, crispy coating that holds up well to the sauce.
Eggs – Helps bind the flour mixture to the chicken for a crunchy, even breading.
Salt & Pepper – Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and balances the seasonings.
Garlic Powder & Paprika – Adds depth and a subtle smokiness to the coating.
Vegetable Oil – Used for frying to achieve a golden-brown crust. Canola or peanut oil also works well.
Mayonnaise – The base of the Bang Bang sauce, giving it a creamy and rich texture.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and mild heat, balancing out the flavors.
Sriracha – Brings the signature kick to the sauce; adjust the amount to control the spice level.
Honey – A hint of sweetness to balance the heat and acidity in the sauce.
Chopped Chives or Green Onions – A fresh garnish that adds a mild onion flavor and color contrast.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the boneless, skinless chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for extra flavor. Set aside while you prepare the breading station.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine cornstarch and all-purpose flour. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture first, then coat it evenly in the flour mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. Taste and adjust the spice level if needed. The sauce should be creamy, slightly sweet, and spicy.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Once all the chicken is fried and slightly cooled, drizzle or toss it in the Bang Bang sauce. For a lighter coating, drizzle the sauce over the top. For a more intense flavor, toss the chicken completely in the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or green onions over the sauced chicken for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately while crispy and warm!

How Long to Cook the Bang Bang Chicken

Cooking time depends on the method you choose:

Deep Frying: Cook for 3-4 minutes per side at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown and crispy.
Air Frying: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Baking: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

Always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

Cut Chicken Evenly – Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and consistent crispiness.
Use Cornstarch for Extra Crunch – A mix of cornstarch and flour creates a crispier coating.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches so each piece gets evenly golden and crispy.
Keep the Oil Temperature Steady – If the oil is too hot, the coating burns; too cool, and the chicken gets greasy.
Sauce at the Last Minute – Toss the chicken in the sauce right before serving to keep the crispiness.
Double Fry for Extra Crispiness – Fry the chicken once, let it rest, then fry again for 1-2 minutes.
Adjust the Spice Level – Reduce Sriracha for a milder version or add extra for more heat.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Cornstarch: This ingredient is crucial for a crispy coating—don’t leave it out!
Overcrowding the Frying Pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, making the chicken soggy.
Not Draining Excess Oil: Let the fried chicken rest on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease.
Saucing Too Soon: Tossing the chicken in sauce too early can make it soggy. Wait until just before serving.
Using Cold Oil: Ensure your oil is heated to 350°F (175°C) before frying, or the coating won’t crisp up properly.
Overcooking the Chicken: Small pieces cook fast—keep an eye on them to prevent dryness.
Forgetting to Season the Chicken: Seasoning before breading ensures deep, flavorful bites.
Using the Wrong Sauce Ratio: Too much or too little sauce can overpower or dry out the chicken—balance is key!

What to Serve With Bang Bang Chicken?

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice

The mild, fluffy rice balances out the bold, creamy sauce.

2. Garlic Noodles

A rich and flavorful noodle dish pairs well with the crispy chicken.

3. Asian Slaw

A crunchy slaw with a light dressing adds freshness and a slight tang.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers add color and nutrition.

5. Wonton Soup

A light soup that complements the crispy texture of Bang Bang Chicken.

6. Sweet Potato Fries

The sweet and crispy fries make a fun side that contrasts with the spicy sauce.

7. Cucumber Salad

Cool and refreshing, this salad helps balance out the heat.

8. Pickled Vegetables

Tangy pickled veggies cut through the richness of the sauce and fried coating.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it as crispy as possible, store the sauce separately and only toss the chicken when ready to eat.

Reheating:

Oven/Air Fryer (Best Method): Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Stovetop: Heat in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes.
Microwave (Not Recommended): This will make the coating soggy, but if needed, reheat in short intervals.

Freezing:

Freeze the fried (unsauced) chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in an oven or air fryer before tossing in the sauce.

Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (Approximate Values):

Calories: 420
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 750mg
Sugar: 8g

These values will vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes. For a lighter version, try baking or air frying the chicken and using Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make Bang Bang Chicken in the Air Fryer?

Yes! Cook the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Spray lightly with oil for extra crispiness.

2. How Do I Make the Sauce Less Spicy?

Reduce the amount of Sriracha or replace it with extra sweet chili sauce for a milder flavor. You can also add a bit more honey or mayo to balance the heat.

3. Can I Use Frozen Chicken?

Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking. Frozen chicken retains excess moisture, which can affect the crispiness.

4. Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Healthier?

For a lighter version, bake or air fry the chicken instead of deep frying. You can also swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt in the sauce.

5. What’s the Best Oil for Frying?

Use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, for the crispiest results.

6. Can I Prepare Bang Bang Chicken Ahead of Time?

You can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 6 hours before frying. The sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge.

7. Why Is My Chicken Not Crispy?

This happens if the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken is overcrowded in the pan, or it sits in sauce too long before serving.

8. Can I Use This Recipe for Shrimp Instead of Chicken?

Absolutely! Follow the same steps, but fry shrimp for only 2-3 minutes per side since they cook faster.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken is the ultimate crispy, saucy, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry it, the combination of crunchy chicken and creamy, spicy sauce is truly irresistible. Save this recipe on Pinterest, share it with your friends and family, and let me know how it turns out!