Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a deliciously crispy dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a spicy, creamy sauce. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a main course and is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold flavors!

Ingredients List

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon vinegar added)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

Timing

Preparing Crispy Bang Bang Chicken takes about 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Soak Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces and buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator) to tenderize the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Dredge Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1-2 inches of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to transfer cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

1. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 6: Serve

1. Toss Chicken in Sauce: In a large bowl, toss the crispy chicken pieces with the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
2. Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450
Protein	25g
Fat	30g
Carbohydrates	30g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to increase or decrease the heat level according to your preference.
• Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake the coated chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
• Add-ins: Consider adding chopped cilantro or lime juice to the sauce for extra flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines crispy chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work well for this recipe and can add extra juiciness.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Bang Bang sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or even in a wrap for a delicious meal!