Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Get ready to add a new classic to your dinner rotation! Bang Bang Chicken is a beloved dish that stars tender, juicy chicken bites coated in a super-crispy crust, all tossed with a creamy, sweet-and-spicy sauce that packs just the right amount of kick. This recipe balances crunchy texture with a crave-worthy tang, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to something special on a busy weeknight, Bang Bang Chicken always delivers bold flavor and pure comfort.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Bang Bang Chicken brings something special to the plate — from juicy chicken base to a punchy sauce that really wakes up your tastebuds. By combining just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll achieve big flavors and crave-worthy crunch.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for juicy, tender bites that stay moist after frying.
• Buttermilk: The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick for maximum crispiness.
• Cornstarch: Essential for that signature light, shatteringly crunchy crust.
• All-purpose flour: Combined with cornstarch, flour gives structure to the coating and helps it turn golden.
• Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that bring out the best in the chicken.
• Vegetable oil: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for safe, perfect frying.
• Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base for the famous Bang Bang sauce.
• Sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a touch of heat to the sauce for that classic Bang Bang kick.
• Sriracha: Spicy and garlicky, Sriracha can be adjusted to add as much (or as little) zing as you like.
• Honey: Balances out all the spice and vinegar with a gentle hit of sweetness.
• Rice vinegar: Lifts the sauce with a little extra tang, making the dish truly pop.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into hearty, bite-sized pieces — perfect for scooping up sauce later. Drop the chicken pieces into a bowl with the buttermilk, making sure every piece is fully coated. Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes; this quick marinade really amps up the tenderness and ensures every bite is flavorful and juicy.

Step 2: Mix the Coating

While your chicken is marinating, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow bowl. This combo is the secret behind that crispy shell Bang Bang Chicken is famous for, creating a crust that stays crunchy even after tossing in the sauce.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, remove each piece from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour-cornstarch mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks. This step is worth the effort — every nook and cranny will crisp up beautifully!

Step 4: Fry Until Golden and Crunchy

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Working in batches, fry the coated chicken pieces for about 4 to 5 minutes per batch until they’re crisp, deeply golden, and fully cooked through. As they finish, transfer to a plate lined with paper towels so any excess oil can drain away, keeping that amazing crunch intact.

Step 5: Whisk Together the Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Whisk until perfectly smooth and silky. Taste and adjust the Sriracha if you want things hotter! This magical sauce takes the chicken from good to unforgettable.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

When it’s time to eat, toss the hot, crispy chicken in the Bang Bang sauce or, if you prefer, drizzle the sauce over top for a prettily glossy finish. Serve right away to enjoy every bit of the texture and flavor!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Bang Bang Chicken with sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, a pinch of chopped cilantro, or even a scattering of finely diced red chili for a splash of color and a fresh flavor finish. These little touches make each bite burst with personality and bring an extra wow-factor to the table.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken loves a partner! Serve it over fluffy steamed rice, atop a bed of crisp shredded lettuce, or tucked into soft tortillas for a fun taco night. It’s also dynamite alongside noodle salads or veggie stir-fries if you’re feeling like an Asian-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, thread the crispy chicken onto skewers and drizzle with sauce for irresistible appetizers. Or pile the sauced chicken into lettuce wraps for hand-held bites with a cool, fresh crunch. If you’re meal-prepping, pack Bang Bang Chicken with rice or mixed greens in bento boxes for a lunch you’ll look forward to all morning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and sauce separately when possible. Keep the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; this keeps the coating from getting too soggy and lets you bring back that signature crunch when reheating.

Freezing

Bang Bang Chicken actually freezes quite well! Lay the cooled, cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To get the coating crispy again, reheat leftover chicken in a hot oven (about 375°F/190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, or in an air fryer for a few minutes until heated through. Add the sauce after reheating so the crunch stays intact and every bite is just like fresh!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly juicier and extra flavorful, making them a fantastic swap in this recipe. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces as you would with breasts, and follow all the same steps for great results.

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The spice level is totally customizable. The Sriracha in the sauce provides most of the heat, so add less for a mild dish or extra for a real kick. Taste as you go and make it just the way you like!

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken without deep frying?

Yes! For a lighter take, you can bake the coated chicken on a wire rack at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, or air fry at 400°F (200°C) for around 10-12 minutes. You’ll still get plenty of crunch without the extra oil.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

With a simple swap to dairy-free mayonnaise and plant-based buttermilk (like almond milk+lemon juice), Bang Bang Chicken can easily be made dairy-free. The flavor and texture will be just as fantastic!

What else can I use the Bang Bang sauce for?

Try drizzling it over shrimp, roasted vegetables, tofu, or even as a decadent dip for fries. The sauce is so versatile and tasty, you’ll find yourself looking for new ways to use every last drop.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is one of those dishes that makes you look like a pro chef with minimal fuss, and it always brings a smile to the table. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your most-requested recipe! Gather your ingredients and give this crowd-pleaser a try — you’re sure to fall in love with its crispy, saucy magic.

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