Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken
Hey there, friends! Chef Andrew here, and today we’re tackling a recipe that’s guaranteed to become a household favorite: Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in a golden, crunchy crust, then drenched in a creamy, sweet-and-spicy sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance. It’s like your favorite takeout dish—but fresher, crispier, and way more satisfying.
Table of Contents
I’ve streamlined this recipe to be ready in 30 minutes with minimal cleanup. Plus, I’ll share pro tips for air-frying, meal prep, and even a sneaky Dave Chang-inspired twist (more on that later!). Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4-6)
Gather these simple pantry staples for crispy, saucy perfection:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for leaner bites)
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed cornflakes for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying (avocado, vegetable, or use an air fryer!)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust for heat!)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp soy sauce
Optional Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps for restaurant-quality results:
1. Prep the Chicken
- Cut: Slice chicken into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry with paper towels—crucial for maximum crispiness!
- Season: Toss chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Bread Like a Pro
- Dredge: Dip chicken in cornstarch, shaking off excess.
- Egg Wash: Coat in beaten eggs.
- Crunch Time: Press into panko until fully covered.
3. Fry or Air-Fry
- Deep Fry: Heat oil to 350°F. Fry chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden. Drain on a wire rack.
- Air Fry: Spritz with oil. Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Whip Up the Bang Bang Sauce
Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Taste and adjust—add more sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness!
5. Toss & Serve
Gently toss crispy chicken in the sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately!
Chef’s Pro Tip: Dave Chang-Inspired Twist
“For a bold, Momofuku-style upgrade, swap chicken thighs with braised chicken necks! Simmer necks in a mix of soy sauce, gochujang, and rice vinegar until tender, then bread and fry as directed. The rich, gelatinous meat pairs amazingly with the creamy sauce.”
FAQs (You Asked, I Answered!)
❓How did Bang Bang Chicken get its name?
The name “Bang Bang Chicken” comes from the traditional Sichuan cooking method where the chicken is tenderized by pounding it with a wooden mallet (creating a “bang bang” sound). Some theories also suggest the name reflects the explosive flavor of the spicy sauce. This dish balances texture and heat, making it a crowd-pleaser!
🌶️ What does Bang Bang Chicken taste like?
Bang Bang Chicken is a flavor explosion! The crispy fried chicken contrasts with a creamy, spicy sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and slightly fiery. Our recipe’s sauce (made with mayo, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar) adds richness, while chili oil or crushed red pepper delivers a customizable kick. Think crispy + creamy + spicy = addictive!
🥣 What sauce goes with Bang Bang Chicken?
The star is our creamy spicy sauce (the secret to better-than-takeout flavor!), but you can pair Bang Bang Chicken with:
Peanut Sauce: For nutty depth.
Sesame Soy Sauce: A lighter, savory option.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Mild heat with a sticky glaze.
Pro tip: Drizzle extra sauce over the chicken and serve it on the side for dipping!
🔥 Is Bang Bang Chicken served hot or cold?
Traditionally, it’s served cold or at room temperature, but our crispy version is best enjoyed fresh and hot! Frying the chicken right before serving ensures maximum crunch, while the creamy sauce cools things down. For meal prep, store components separately and assemble before eating.
🌡️ Is Bang Bang Chicken hot?
Yes, but you control the heat level! Our recipe’s spice comes from chili oil or Sriracha, which can be adjusted. For mild heat, reduce the chili; for extra fire, add cayenne pepper or fresh chopped chilies. The creamy sauce balances the spice, making it approachable even for sensitive palates.
Serving Suggestions
- Bowl Style: Serve over jasmine rice with quick-pickled veggies.
- Tacos: Stuff into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage and cilantro.
- Appetizer: Skewer chicken bites with toothpicks for game-day snacks!
Meal Prep & Storage
- Fridge: Store unsauced chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
- Freezer: Freeze breaded, uncooked chicken on a baking sheet. Transfer to a bag and fry straight from frozen (add 2-3 minutes to cook time).
Why This Recipe Works
- Balanced Flavors: Sweet, spicy, creamy, and crunchy—all in one bite!
- Adaptable: Bake, air-fry, or deep-fry to suit your kitchen setup.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Kids and adults alike will beg for seconds.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- How to Make the BEST Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito (Quick, Easy & Flavor-Packed!)
- Authentic Puerto Rican Flan de Queso Recipe: Creamy, Easy & Irresistible Dessert
- Easy Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps (10-Min Meal!) – Creamy, Crispy & Irresistible
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe with Creamy Spicy Sauce – Better Than Takeout!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed cornflakes)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying (avocado, vegetable, or air fryer)
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust for heat)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp soy sauce
Optional Garnishes
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Slice into 1-inch cubes, pat dry, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Bread Like a Pro: Dredge in cornstarch, dip in egg wash, then coat with panko.
- Fry or Air-Fry: Deep fry at 350°F for 4-5 minutes or air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes.
- Whip Up the Sauce: Mix mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and soy sauce.
- Toss & Serve: Coat chicken in sauce and garnish with sesame seeds/green onions.
Let’s Get Cooking!
There you have it—the ultimate Crispy Bang Bang Chicken that’s quicker, tastier, and more satisfying than takeout. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Your Turn!
Tried this recipe? contact me in [email protected] —I’d love to see your creations! Got a twist? Share it in the comments below.
Hungry for more? Check out my 30-Minute Dinners Roundup for more stress-free meal ideas.