Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation Recipe

Get ready to meet your new obsession: Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation! Imagine golden fried bites of juicy chicken, each one perfectly coated in a lip-smacking bang bang sauce that’s creamy, tangy, a little spicy, and just the right amount of sweet. Whether you’re looking for a restaurant-style appetizer or a show-stopping main dish, this recipe delivers bold flavor and fabulous crunch with every single bite. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra—everyone comes back for seconds (and maybe even thirds)!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation is the simplicity of the ingredient list. Each item is carefully chosen not just for flavor, but for that addictive texture and crave-worthy color that makes this dish shine.

• Chicken(1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs): Choose thighs for extra juiciness or breasts for a lighter bite; chop into even pieces for uniform cooking.
• Buttermilk (1 cup, or plant-based milk + 1 tsp vinegar): Marinating in buttermilk makes the chicken super tender and helps the coating stick beautifully.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): This forms the main structure of that irresistible crispy coating.
• Cornstarch (1/2 cup): Cornstarch brings out the crunch, making every bite audibly crisp.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): A subtle garlic note infuses both the coating and the aroma.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for drawing out the natural flavor of the chicken.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a little depth and warmth, enhancing all other flavors.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil like canola, peanut, or sunflower for golden, non-greasy results.
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy base of bang bang sauce that ties everything together.
• Sweet chili sauce (1/4 cup): Adds sweetness and a mild kick, with beautiful red flecks for color.
• Sriracha (1 tablespoon, adjust to taste): For that signature heat; you can always dial back for a milder batch.
• Honey (1 tablespoon): Brings in a glossy sheen and mellow sweetness that balances the heat.
• Rice vinegar (1 teaspoon): Lifts the sauce with a bit of tang, making it irresistible.
• Chopped green onions (for garnish): Sprinkle on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Sesame seeds (for garnish): They add the perfect hint of nuttiness and crunch to finish the dish.

How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your bite-sized chicken pieces into a mixing bowl and pour over the buttermilk (or the plant-based milk with a touch of vinegar, if you prefer dairy-free). Give everything a good toss so the chicken gets evenly coated. The magic really happens if you can let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better—your patience will be rewarded with ultra-juicy, flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This quick mix is crucial for nailing the signature crispy exterior that sets Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation apart from the rest. Make sure everything is thoroughly combined so every piece fries up perfectly.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour about two inches of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven. Set the heat to medium-high and use a thermometer to reach 350°F (175°C). Keeping the temperature steady ensures the chicken cooks through without absorbing excess oil, giving you a light, crunchy, golden crust every time.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Working in batches, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour and cornstarch mixture. Press a little to ensure the coating sticks firmly to every nook and cranny—this step is key for maximum crunch in every bite!

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if needed). Fry for 4 to 5 minutes, turning as needed, until each piece is deeply golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil, ensuring truly crispy results.

Step 6: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While your chicken is frying, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a bowl until the sauce is completely smooth and vibrant. This is where that craveable sweet, tangy, and spicy flavor comes from—taste and adjust the sriracha or honey as you like.

Step 7: Toss and Serve

Now for the best part: either toss your hot, crispy fried chicken directly in the bang bang sauce for full coverage or serve the sauce drizzled on top or on the side as a dip. Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that restaurant-worthy look and an explosion of texture.

How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation

Garnishes

The difference between good Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation and wow-worthy restaurant style is all in the garnishing! A flurry of green onions adds bright, fresh flavor and a pop of color. Toasted sesame seeds bring a delicate nutty crunch, while an extra drizzle of sauce on top makes it look as inviting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This dish is so bold and flavorful that it pairs perfectly with simple sides. Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy coconut rice help soak up the extra sauce. Tossed Asian-style slaw or crisp cucumber salad can lighten things up. And if you’re serving a crowd, spring rolls or fragrant garlic noodles make a fabulous spread alongside your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your presentation up a notch by serving these golden bites on skewers for a fun party platter, or pile them high in lettuce cups for a low-carb twist. Pile them into bao buns with a little cabbage slaw for a delicious Asian fusion sandwich. However you serve it, the vibrant color and sticky-sweet glaze make it a total showstopper!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation should be cooled completely before storing. Place in an airtight container in the fridge, ideally keeping the sauce separate for maximum crunch. It’s best enjoyed within two days, though in my house, it rarely lasts that long!

Freezing

If you want to make a batch ahead or have extra, freeze the fried chicken pieces (without sauce) on a tray, then transfer to a zipper bag or airtight container. Frozen, they’ll keep up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Avoid freezing the sauce, as the texture can separate—fresh is always best here.

Reheating

For that signature crispiness, reheat the chicken in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for a few minutes until hot and crunchy again. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make the coating soggy. Only toss with sauce after reheating to keep it tasting fresh and fabulous.

FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free cornstarch. The result will still be delightfully crispy and perfect for everyone at the table.

Is there a good dairy-free alternative to buttermilk?

Yes, just use your preferred plant-based milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. It will provide the same tenderizing magic for your chicken without the dairy.

How spicy is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation?

While it has a definite kick, most of the heat comes from the sriracha. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding less or more sriracha. If you prefer extra sweet, just bump up the honey!

Can I bake or air fry the chicken for a lighter version?

Definitely! Lightly spray the coated chicken pieces with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18 to 22 minutes or until golden and cooked through, or use your air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll still get fantastic crunch with way less oil.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the chicken (without sauce) in the oven or air fryer until crisp and hot, then drizzle or toss with fresh bang bang sauce just before serving for maximum texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to dazzle your friends or just treat yourself to an unforgettable meal at home, give Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: An Incredible Sweet and Spicy Sensation a try. With its dreamy sauce and shatteringly crisp crust, it’s a dish that truly lives up to the hype. Happy cooking—and happy crunching!

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