Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe: Sweet, Spicy, and Irresistibly Crunchy!

Craving a crispy, juicy chicken dish that brings the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors? This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is exactly what you need! With a crispy, golden coating and a creamy, tangy Bang Bang sauce that packs a punch, it’s a dish that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re preparing a snack for your next movie night or serving a delicious appetizer at a party, this recipe delivers an unforgettable experience. The crunchy panko crust and tender chicken tenders, combined with the irresistible heat from the sriracha and the sweetness of the chili sauce, make this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken a crowd favorite. Ready to elevate your cooking? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Juicy: A perfect balance of crunchy coating and tender, flavorful chicken.
• Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce: A creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that takes this dish to the next level.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps with readily available ingredients.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a sandwich or wrap.

Cooking Time

Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For Garnish:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Extra sriracha for drizzling (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar (or lime juice), and garlic powder. Adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired. Set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls:

• Flour Mixture: Combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
• Egg Wash: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
• Panko Coating: Place the panko breadcrumbs in another bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Dip it into the egg wash, letting the excess drip off. Press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even and crunchy coating. Place the coated chicken on a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat about 1.5 inches of oil in a deep pan or skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken in batches, frying for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Alternative Cooking Methods:

• Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Oven-Baked: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping once.

Step 5: Toss in Bang Bang Sauce

Once the chicken is fried and slightly cooled, toss it in the Bang Bang sauce or drizzle the sauce over the top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and texture. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken

• On a Bed of Rice: Serve with jasmine or coconut rice.
• With a Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp cabbage slaw.
• In a Wrap or Sandwich: Load it into a warm tortilla or a brioche bun.
• With Dipping Sauces: Ranch, extra sweet chili sauce, or a spicy aioli.

Tips for the Best Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They provide the crispiest texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Double Dipping? No Problem! For extra crunch, dip the chicken back into the egg wash and panko before frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain even cooking and crispiness.
• Want Extra Heat? Add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.
• For a Healthier Version: Try baking or air frying instead of deep frying.

Nutritional Value & Health Benefits

This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken isn’t just delicious, it’s packed with protein and essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value:

Health Benefits

• Protein: A great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Healthy Fats: The use of healthy oil can provide beneficial fats for heart health.
• Low in Carbs: Ideal for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 6 hours before frying. For the sauce, keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat and keep it crispy, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or air fry for 5 minutes.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Homemade Bang Bang Chicken Dinner is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that combines the perfect crunch with bold, irresistible flavors. The sweet, spicy Bang Bang sauce coats each juicy piece of crispy chicken, creating a mouthwatering contrast that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family dinner, or a casual snack, this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe never disappoints. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you can recreate this restaurant-quality chicken at home in no time. So, why wait? Give it a try, and let this easy crispy chicken recipe become your new go-to favorite!