Imagine biting into a piece of chicken that’s perfectly crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and smothered in a creamy, spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds. That’s the magic of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or enjoy a flavorful dinner at home, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, from how to make it to why it’s one of the most crave-worthy meals you can enjoy. Let’s explore how to make this delicious dish your new favorite recipe.
What is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
A Perfectly Balanced Dish
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines the crispiness of fried chicken with the bold, tangy, and sweet flavors of a homemade sauce. The “Bang Bang” name reflects the intense burst of flavors that hit your taste buds when you take that first bite. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
The chicken is breaded and fried to golden perfection, and then it’s tossed in a rich, creamy sauce made with sriracha, mayonnaise, honey, and garlic. This combination of heat, sweetness, and creaminess is what makes the dish so irresistible.
Where Does the Dish Come From?
Though its origins are debated, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is believed to have Asian influences, with hints of Thai and Chinese cuisine. It’s gained popularity in restaurants and home kitchens alike because of its unique, bold flavors and satisfying texture. It’s a fusion dish that’s become a go-to favorite for many.
Why Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Is So Irresistible
The Crunch Factor
One of the reasons Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is so addictive is the perfect crunch of the breaded chicken. The crispy coating adds texture and contrast to the tender, juicy meat inside, making each bite a satisfying experience. This is why the dish is so popular – it’s a textural delight that offers both crispiness and tenderness in every mouthful.
Bold and Flavorful Sauce
The sauce is what truly makes this dish stand out. The combination of mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic creates a complex flavor profile that hits all the right notes. You get sweetness from the honey, heat from the sriracha, tanginess from the rice vinegar, and creaminess from the mayo. Together, these ingredients form a sauce that’s the perfect complement to the crispy chicken.
Customizable for Your Taste
Another great thing about Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is that you can easily adjust the recipe to fit your personal preferences. If you like it spicier, add more sriracha. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the honey. This dish is highly customizable, so you can make it just the way you like it.
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken at home is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that rivals any restaurant’s version. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients You’ll Need
Table of Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2 | Boneless, skinless |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | For coating |
| Cornstarch | ½ cup | Helps achieve extra crispiness |
| Eggs | 2 | For egg wash |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Creamy base for the sauce |
| Sriracha | 2 tbsp | Adds heat to the sauce |
| Honey | 2 tbsp | Sweetens the sauce |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tbsp | Adds tanginess |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 tsp | Adds depth of flavor |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | As needed | For frying the chicken |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces or strips. Season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. If you prefer crispy tenders, you can also cut the chicken into thin strips. - Coat the Chicken
In a shallow bowl, combine flour and cornstarch. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then into the egg wash, and coat it again with the flour mixture. This double-coating technique will ensure the chicken becomes extra crispy. - Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. - Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Whisk the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. - Toss the Chicken in Sauce
Once the chicken is fried and crispy, add it to a large bowl and pour the Bang Bang sauce over it. Gently toss the chicken until it’s fully coated with the sauce. - Serve
Plate your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken and garnish it with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh cilantro. You can serve it on its own or with sides like steamed rice or a crunchy salad.
Tips for the Perfect Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
To make sure your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use the right oil: Vegetable oil or peanut oil are best for frying since they have a high smoke point and won’t burn as easily.
- Double-coat the chicken: The key to crispy chicken is the double-coating process. Don’t skip this step—it ensures the chicken gets a crispy outer layer while remaining tender inside.
- Fry in batches: Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy chicken. Fry the chicken in small batches to ensure it stays crispy.
Variations and Customizations
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is highly adaptable. Here are some ways you can tweak the recipe to fit your taste:
- Spicy Version: Add extra sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce if you prefer a more intense heat.
- Healthier Option: If you want to make a healthier version, try baking the chicken instead of frying it. Coat the chicken in a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch, and bake it in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with cauliflower for a vegetarian version of this crispy dish. Coat the cauliflower in the same breading and bake or fry it to achieve a crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Once your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is ready, it’s time to serve it up! Here are some ideas:
- As an appetizer: Serve it on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating at your next party or gathering.
- In a wrap: Add the crispy chicken to a tortilla, along with fresh vegetables, like lettuce, cucumbers, and avocado, for a flavorful wrap.
- On top of rice or salad: Pair the chicken with a side of jasmine rice or a light green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
Nutritional Information
While Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a delicious treat, it’s important to be mindful of the calories and nutrition. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 350-400 per serving (based on 4-5 pieces of chicken)
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
Healthier Modifications
To make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken a bit lighter, consider the following:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to cut down on fat and add extra protein.
- Bake the chicken instead of frying it to lower the calorie count.
- Serve with a side of veggies like roasted broccoli or a crisp salad to add fiber and nutrients to your meal.
FAQs About Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken ahead of time, fry it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, toss the chicken in the sauce and serve. The sauce can also be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
Is it possible to make a non-spicy version?
Definitely! If you’re not a fan of spice, you can reduce the amount of sriracha or leave it out entirely. The sauce will still be creamy and delicious without the heat.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes! For a healthier version, bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will give you a crispy coating without the need for frying.
Conclusion
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is an incredibly flavorful dish that combines crispy chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce. It’s a dish