Name: Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup sweet chili sauce (Frank’s recommended); 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Sriracha used); 2 tablespoons honey; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into small pieces; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup cornstarch; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste); 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Sriracha used); 1 large egg; 1 cup buttermilk (plus more if batter is too thick); 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil, for frying

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 8 reviews

If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors, crispy textures, and a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. This recipe features tender chicken breasts coated in a crunchy panko crust and drenched in a luscious, creamy sauce that combines the zing of hot sauce with the sweetness of honey and chili sauce. Every bite is an irresistible celebration of texture and taste, making it perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or anytime you want to impress without stress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds a sauce made of several layers; at the bottom is a light yellow layer which seems to be smooth, then on top there is a white creamy layer partly covering the yellow one, a splash of red sauce placed on one side, and sprinkled black pepper covering part of the white layer. The next image shows the same clear glass bowl on the white marbled surface with the sauce mixed into a smooth, light orange color with tiny black pepper specks evenly spread throughout the sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe requires just a handful of simple and accessible ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the dish’s signature flavor and texture. From the crunchy coating to the creamy, spicy sauce, every element is essential for that perfect bite.

Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and a smooth base for the sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
Sweet chili sauce: Adds just the right amount of sweetness and subtle heat that defines the sauce’s character.
Hot sauce (Sriracha): Offers a spicy kick, giving the dish its signature zing.
Honey: Balances heat with a touch of natural sweetness.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Perfect for tender, juicy chicken pieces that cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
All-purpose flour and cornstarch: Work together to create a light, crispy batter that grips the chicken.
Buttermilk: Ensures the chicken remains moist and tender inside the crispy coating.
Garlic powder and smoked paprika: Infuse the batter with savory depth and a subtle smoky aroma.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of both the chicken and batter.
Egg: Helps bind the batter for a perfectly coated chicken piece.
Panko breadcrumbs: Provide an irresistible crispy crunch that’s light and airy.
Vegetable oil: Ideal for frying to achieve that golden and crunchy finish.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

Start by mixing mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, along with a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. This sauce is where all the magic happens, perfectly blending creamy, spicy, and sweet elements. Once combined, pop it into the refrigerator to let the flavors meld while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Make the Batter and Coat the Chicken

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the hot sauce, egg, and buttermilk, mixing until you get a smooth, thick batter. Toss the diced chicken pieces in this mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. This batter keeps the chicken juicy inside while adding structure for the crispy coating.

Step 3: Dredge Chicken in Panko Breadcrumbs

Pour about a cup of panko breadcrumbs into another bowl. Coat each battered chicken piece generously in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well. This step is critical for that signature crispy texture that makes the Bang Bang Chicken so addictive.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat about half an inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each piece for about 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use paper towels to drain excess oil once fried. This method guarantees a crunchy exterior enveloping tender chicken.

Step 5: Toss Chicken with the Sauce

Finally, drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the hot fried chicken or toss the chicken in the sauce so every piece gets coated generously. Serve immediately for the best taste, as the sauce adds that creamy, spicy finish that defines the Bang Bang Chicken Recipe.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

A round dark plate filled with many pieces of crispy, golden brown fried chicken. Each piece is coated with an orange creamy sauce that drips slightly, giving a shiny look. Small green herb leaves are sprinkled over the chicken for contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled texture surface. In the background, a bunch of fresh green herbs and a light gray cloth are softly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Bang Bang Chicken, sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or cilantro over the top. You can also add a few toasted sesame seeds for an eye-catching crunch and subtle nutty flavor. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also add freshness that balances the richness of the sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides to complement its robust flavors. Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice, crunchy cucumber salad, or even crispy roasted vegetables. These options add texture and freshness, rounding out the meal without overpowering the star of the show.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual party, serve your Bang Bang Chicken Recipe on skewers or in lettuce wraps for an irresistible bite-sized treat. Alternatively, place the sauced chicken over a bed of noodles or shredded cabbage for a more substantial meal. Get creative with plating to impress your guests and keep things fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the chicken crispy and prevents the sauce from making it soggy. Use within 3 days to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Keep the sauce refrigerated only, as freezing mayonnaise-based sauces can affect texture. Frozen chicken is best enjoyed within 1 month for optimal taste.

Reheating

To retain crispiness when reheating, warm the chicken in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes rather than microwaving. Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop or in the microwave separately before drizzling over the chicken to revive the fresh flavors.

FAQs

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook quickly and absorb the flavors well, but you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option with more fat.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sauce actually benefits from some resting time to meld the flavors, so preparing it a few hours or the day before will elevate your dish.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a pleasant level of heat from the hot sauces, but it’s very adaptable—you can reduce or increase the amount of Sriracha and chili sauce to suit your spice preference.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken; this makes an excellent buttermilk substitute.

How do I keep the chicken crispy after tossing in sauce?

To maintain some crispiness, consider drizzling the sauce over the chicken right before serving instead of fully coating every piece, or toss lightly. Serving the sauce on the side works well too.

Final Thoughts

This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is a fantastic way to bring excitement and warmth to your dinner table. Crispy, flavorful chicken paired with a luscious, spicy sauce is simply irresistible. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it, so don’t hesitate to give it a whirl and share the love with friends and family!