Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy panko-crusted chicken tenderloins with a rich, homemade bang bang sauce. This recipe stands out for its perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a hit at any gathering or family dinner. With its crispy exterior and spicy-sweet sauce, Bang Bang Chicken is sure to impress everyone around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha gives a unique flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or even in wraps for lunch the next day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The crispy texture and delicious sauce make it a favorite among both kids and adults.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha to suit your spice preference; it’s easy to make it milder or hotter!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Cooking thermometer (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan: Allows for even cooking and crispiness by providing ample space for the chicken to fry without crowding.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently, ensuring thorough mixing of wet and dry components.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in sauces and batters, crucial for the bang bang sauce.
• Tongs: Makes handling hot chicken easy and safe during frying.

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Ingredients

To make Bang Bang Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Sauce

• 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
• ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup (245 g) buttermilk
• ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (64 g) cornstarch
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs (plain)
• Canola oil (for frying)
• Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a bowl, combine the buttermilk with 1 tablespoon of Sriracha.
2. Add chicken tenderloins to the mixture. Ensure they are well coated.
3. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

1. In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust spiciness if needed.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station

1. In one bowl, add all-purpose flour mixed with garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. In a second bowl, beat the egg until smooth.
3. In a third bowl, place panko breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from marinade; let excess drip off.
2. Dredge each piece in flour mixture first.
3. Dip into beaten egg next.
4. Finally, coat with panko breadcrumbs pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat canola oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat until hot (about 350°F/175°C).
2. Carefully add breaded chicken pieces in batches; avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry each side for about 3 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

1. Drain fried chicken on paper towels.
2. Drizzle with prepared bang bang sauce and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your crispy Bang Bang Chicken!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the crispy Bang Bang Chicken on toothpicks for easy eating.
• Pair with extra bang bang sauce for dipping to enhance the flavor.

In a Wrap

• Place Bang Bang Chicken in a tortilla with fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes.
• Drizzle with additional sauce for a zesty wrap.

Over Rice

• Serve the chicken over a bed of jasmine or brown rice to create a hearty meal.
• Add steamed broccoli or carrots on the side for added nutrition.

With Salad

• Slice the chicken and place it atop mixed greens for a refreshing salad option.
• Top with sesame seeds and your choice of dressing for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

Perfecting your Bang Bang Chicken can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your chicken and sauces impacts the overall flavor. Fresh ingredients yield better results.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra-crispy coating, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They provide that perfect crunch.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep your oil at around 350°F (175°C) when frying. This ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess.
• Let It Drain: After frying, place the chicken on paper towels to absorb excess oil. This keeps it crispy.
• Adjust Sauce Spice: Feel free to modify the amount of Sriracha in the sauce according to your heat preference. Start small and add more if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Crispy Wontons – Deep-fried wontons filled with cream cheese or vegetables add a crunchy texture alongside the tender chicken.
2. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots provides freshness and crunch that complements the crispy chicken.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element and balances out the richness of the fried chicken.
4. Fried Rice – Flavorful fried rice, packed with veggies, makes for a filling side that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of Bang Bang Chicken.
5. Sweet Potato Fries – These fries offer a sweet contrast to the spicy sauce while contributing additional fiber and vitamins.
6. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers a cool, crisp bite that contrasts nicely with the warm chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you perfect your Bang Bang Chicken. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Skipping the marination step: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk enhances tenderness and flavor. Don’t rush this process; it’s key for juicy chicken.
• Not using enough oil: Ensure there’s sufficient oil for frying. If the oil level is too low, your chicken won’t crisp up properly.
• Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature and leads to soggy chicken. Fry in batches for the best results.
• Ignoring the sauce balance: Adjust the sweetness and heat of your bang bang sauce according to your taste preferences. Experiment for that perfect blend!
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh panko breadcrumbs make a significant difference in texture. Check dates or use homemade breadcrumbs for optimal crunchiness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator without losing its flavor.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s sealed tightly to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to prevent sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until heated through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Chicken:

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is crispy fried chicken tenderloins coated with a spicy-sweet sauce made from mayonnaise, Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

How can I customize my Bang Bang Chicken?

Feel free to adjust spice levels by altering Sriracha or adding different seasonings like paprika or cayenne pepper. You can also modify the sweetness by adjusting honey levels.

What should I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

This dish pairs well with fresh salads, rice, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it as an appetizer alongside dipping sauces.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that offers a perfect blend of crunch and flavor, making it suitable for any occasion. You can customize it with various spices or serve it with different sides to fit your meal preferences. Give it a try—you might find your new favorite recipe!