If you’re looking to add a bit of excitement to your weeknight dinners or are in need of a game-changing appetizer for your next gathering, Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is the answer! This recipe takes the classic crispy chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce and gives it a healthier twist by cooking it in the air fryer. You’ll enjoy all the flavor with far less oil and mess. Let’s dive into how to make this simple, tasty, and irresistible dish!
What is Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken?
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s quickly cover what Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is all about. This dish combines tender, crispy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy “Bang Bang” sauce made from mayo, sweet chili sauce, and a few spices. It’s the perfect balance of heat and creaminess, with a satisfying crunch, all thanks to the air fryer.
Using the air fryer to cook the chicken gives it that golden, crispy texture without deep-frying in tons of oil. This means you get all the flavor and crunch but with fewer calories and a much cleaner kitchen. Whether you’re feeding the family or serving up a delicious snack, Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is guaranteed to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re wondering why you should try Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken, here are a few reasons why this dish should be on your radar:
- Healthier Alternative to Fried Chicken: Instead of submerging your chicken in a vat of hot oil, you can cook it in the air fryer with just a small spritz of oil. This reduces the fat content while still achieving that crispy texture you crave.
- Quick and Easy: Forget the hassle of deep-frying or waiting for the oven to preheat. The air fryer cooks the chicken in just 15 minutes, making this the perfect meal for busy nights when you need something fast but tasty.
- Crispiness Without the Mess: No more worrying about splattering oil or greasy frying pans. The air fryer ensures your chicken gets crispy all over without the mess of traditional frying.
Ingredients Needed for Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
To get started, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to make Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Possible Substitution |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 2 large breasts | Chicken thighs |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Regular breadcrumbs |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup | Milk + lemon juice |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Onion powder |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | Smoked paprika |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Greek yogurt |
| Sweet chili sauce | 2-3 tbsp | Sriracha + honey |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tbsp | White vinegar |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | – |
Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, green onions, sesame seeds.
You can easily adjust this recipe by swapping chicken breast for thighs or even using tofu for a vegetarian version. The sauce can also be tailored to your preference by increasing the spice level with extra chili sauce or adding more sweetness with honey.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get started on making this delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by prepping your chicken breasts. If they’re too thick, you may want to slice them in half horizontally to ensure they cook evenly and quickly. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Dip each piece of chicken into buttermilk, allowing it to soak for about 5 minutes. This helps tenderize the chicken and gives it that extra juicy texture.
2. Coat with Panko
In a shallow dish, add your panko breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy coating, feel free to add a little extra seasoning to the breadcrumbs. Dredge the buttermilk-soaked chicken in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere evenly.
3. Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure the chicken pieces aren’t touching each other to allow for proper air circulation and crisping.
Air fry the chicken for 12-15 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through to ensure an even, golden-brown crisp. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to prepare the star of the show—the Bang Bang sauce! In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you like more heat, add a bit of sriracha or chili flakes. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, stir in a touch of honey.
5. Assemble the Dish
Once the chicken is cooked and crispy, drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the top. For an even coating, you can also toss the chicken in the sauce in a large bowl, making sure each piece is generously covered.
Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Achieving the perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken comes down to a few key tips:
- Achieve Extra Crispiness: For an even crunchier exterior, lightly spray the chicken with oil before air frying. This helps the breadcrumbs brown evenly and gives you that satisfying crisp.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: To ensure each piece of chicken cooks evenly and crisps up perfectly, make sure there’s enough space in the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
- Customize the Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce is super versatile! If you prefer a tangier sauce, add a little more rice vinegar. For a spicier version, add more chili sauce or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Juiciness: Chicken thighs are naturally juicier and more flavorful than breasts. If you want a richer taste, swap out the breasts for thighs—just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs might take a minute or two longer.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Serving Ideas
Once you’ve got your crispy, saucy chicken ready, it’s time to think about how to serve it. Here are a few ideas to turn this dish into a full meal:
- As a Main Course: Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken with a side of steamed rice or a simple salad. The crunch of the chicken pairs perfectly with the freshness of greens or the warmth of rice.
- As an Appetizer: Arrange the chicken on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking. You could even serve a few dipping sauces on the side, like ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy mayo for variety.
- Pair with Sides: Try serving it alongside roasted veggies, air fryer fries, or a light coleslaw for a well-rounded meal that will impress guests or family alike.
Variations of Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing it up with these variations of Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken:
1. Bang Bang Shrimp
If you’re a seafood lover, swap the chicken for shrimp. Shrimp cooks quickly in the air fryer, and when coated in the same crunchy panko and drizzled with Bang Bang sauce, you’ll have a shrimp dish that’s just as irresistible.
2. Bang Bang Tofu
For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with tofu. Simply press the tofu to remove excess moisture, cut into cubes, and follow the same breading and air frying process. The tofu will soak up the sauce beautifully and deliver the same satisfying crunch.
3. Keto-Friendly Version
Want to make this dish keto-friendly? Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead of panko breadcrumbs to keep the carb count low while maintaining that crispy exterior.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition for one serving (based on a 4-serving recipe using chicken breast and the ingredients as listed):
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
This makes Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken a great source of lean protein while keeping things lower in carbs and fat compared to traditional fried chicken.
FAQs
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy chicken dish coated in a spicy, creamy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a few spices, giving it the perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
Can I use chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts if you prefer a juicier, more flavorful dish.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
To increase the heat, simply add more chili sauce, sriracha, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Bang Bang sauce.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Absolutely! You can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or deep fry it for a more traditional approach.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore its crispiness.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is an absolute game-changer. It’s easy to make, deliciously crispy, and full of flavor, with the added bonus of being healthier than its deep-fried counterpart. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal, prepping for a party, or looking to switch up your regular chicken recipes, this dish is a must-try. So, grab your air fryer and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
Loved this recipe? Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! If you’re looking for more air fryer recipes, check out our other delicious dishes for more inspiration. Happy cooking!