Bang Bang Chicken

Ever experienced a flavor so vibrant, so unexpectedly delightful, it practically explodes on your palate? That’s the exhilarating sensation of Bang Bang Chicken – not just a dish, but a culinary firework show ready to ignite your taste buds. This isn’t merely chicken with sauce; it’s a textural and flavor adventure, where crispy, golden chicken meets a lusciously creamy, subtly spicy, and irresistibly sweet sauce, creating a taste experience that’s both thrilling and utterly addictive. Why am I so captivated by this recipe? Because it’s weeknight excitement, a simple pathway to electrifying flavors that banishes dinner doldrums with a single, satisfying crunch. Prepare to be amazed by its “bangin'” combination of textures and tastes – your journey to flavor fireworks starts now, with this surprisingly easy recipe that promises maximum impact with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Explosion of Textures and Flavors

Prepare for a sensory symphony! Bang Bang Chicken is a masterpiece of contrasts, a dish that masterfully balances crispy chicken with a smooth, creamy sauce, sweet notes with a subtle spicy kick. It’s not just a meal; it’s a textural and flavor rollercoaster, keeping your palate engaged and craving more with every single bite.

Ridiculously Easy, Impressively Delicious

Don’t let the “bang” in the name intimidate you – Bang Bang Chicken is surprisingly simple to create, a culinary illusionist that delivers gourmet taste with minimal kitchen skills required. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you crave maximum flavor payoff without spending hours in the kitchen. Deliciousness and ease, perfectly intertwined.

Crowd-Pleasing Perfection, Every Single Time

Looking for a dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone? Bang Bang Chicken is your answer, a universally appealing flavor combination that transcends age and taste preferences. From picky eaters to adventurous foodies, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Prepare for rave reviews!

Versatile Star, Endless Possibilities

Beyond its stand-alone deliciousness, Bang Bang Chicken is a culinary chameleon, adapting effortlessly to various serving styles and side dishes. Serve it as an appetizer, a main course, in wraps, over rice, or alongside noodles – the possibilities are truly limitless, making it a versatile and adaptable recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients:

To embark on your “bangin'” culinary adventure and create sensational Bang Bang Chicken, assemble these readily available and permissible ingredients, each carefully selected to contribute to the dish’s signature crispy texture, creamy-spicy sauce, and overall irresistible appeal:

For the Crispy, Golden, and Irresistibly Crunchy Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Chicken breasts, the lean and versatile protein at the heart of this dish, provide a tender and satisfying base, offering a blank canvas to achieve that signature crispy coating and absorb the luscious Bang Bang sauce, creating a truly delightful textural contrast. Chicken thighs can be used as a permissible alternative for a richer flavor, though breasts are ideal for achieving maximum crispiness. Uniform bite-sized pieces ensure even cooking and maximum sauce coverage.
• 1 cup Permissible Buttermilk: Permissible buttermilk, the secret to incredibly tender and juicy chicken, acts as a marinade, tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with a subtle tang, while also helping the breading adhere beautifully for ultimate crispiness. If buttermilk is unavailable, you can create a permissible substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of permissible lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of permissible milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
• 1 cup All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour, the foundation of the crispy coating, provides the structure and base for the breading, creating a golden-brown and wonderfully crunchy exterior when fried or baked, offering that signature “bang” texture. Gluten-free all-purpose flour blends are permissible alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
• ½ cup Cornstarch: Cornstarch, the crispiness enhancer, is crucial for achieving that signature light and airy crispness in the chicken coating, creating a delicate and shatteringly crunchy texture that is essential for authentic Bang Bang Chicken. Cornstarch also helps to prevent the breading from becoming soggy.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder, adding a foundational savory note, infuses the chicken coating with a subtle garlic flavor, enhancing the overall savory profile of the dish and complementing the creamy sauce beautifully. Onion powder is a permissible alternative for a different aromatic nuance.
• 1 teaspoon Paprika: Paprika, contributing a mild smoky sweetness and a vibrant reddish hue, adds a subtle depth of flavor and a beautiful color to the chicken coating, enhancing both the taste and visual appeal of the dish. Smoked paprika can be used for a more pronounced smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Sea Salt: Sea salt, the essential seasoning, is crucial for flavoring the chicken coating, enhancing the overall taste and ensuring a well-seasoned and flavorful base that complements the sauce perfectly. Adjust the amount to your personal preference. Kosher salt is a permissible alternative.
• ½ teaspoon Black Pepper: Black pepper, adding a subtle warmth and a gentle peppery bite, provides a foundational seasoning element that complements the chicken coating without overpowering, offering a familiar and balanced pepper note that enhances the savory depth. White pepper can be substituted for a milder pepper flavor.
• Permissible Vegetable Oil, for frying or baking: Permissible vegetable oil, with its neutral flavor and high smoke point, serves as the cooking medium for frying the chicken to golden perfection, creating that signature crispy exterior. Canola oil, peanut oil, or sunflower oil are excellent permissible alternatives for frying. For a baked version, you will need a light coating of oil spray.

For the Luscious, Creamy, and Irresistibly “Bangin'” Sauce:

• 1 cup Permissible Mayonnaise: Permissible mayonnaise, the creamy base of the signature Bang Bang sauce, provides the rich and luscious texture that defines the sauce, creating a decadent and velvety coating that clings beautifully to the crispy chicken. Ensure the mayonnaise is permissible and does not contain any haram ingredients. Vegan mayonnaise is a permissible alternative.
• ½ cup Permissible Sweet Chili Sauce: Permissible sweet chili sauce, adding a balanced sweetness and a subtle chili kick, is a key ingredient in authentic Bang Bang sauce, providing the signature sweet and slightly spicy flavor profile that makes the sauce so addictive and “bangin'”. Ensure the sweet chili sauce is permissible and does not contain any haram ingredients. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
• 2 tablespoons Honey: Honey, adding an extra layer of sweetness and a touch of floral aroma, enhances the overall flavor profile of the sauce, creating a more complex and nuanced sweetness that balances the chili and mayonnaise beautifully. Maple syrup or permissible agave nectar can be used as permissible alternatives for different sweetness profiles.
• 1 tablespoon Permissible Rice Vinegar: Rice vinegar, adding a tangy and slightly acidic note, provides a crucial balancing element to the sauce, cutting through the richness and sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor complexity of the sauce, creating a more vibrant and well-rounded glaze. Permissible apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as alternatives.
• 1 teaspoon Permissible Sriracha Sauce (optional, for extra heat): Permissible sriracha sauce, adding an extra layer of spicy heat, provides a customizable kick for those who prefer a spicier Bang Bang Chicken. Adjust the amount to your personal spice preference, or omit for a milder version. Ensure the sriracha sauce is permissible.

For Garnish (Optional, but Recommended for Visual Appeal and Freshness):

• Sliced Green Onions: Sliced green onions, adding a fresh, mild oniony bite and vibrant green color, provide a refreshing garnish that balances the richness of the Bang Bang Chicken and adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal, completing the dish with a pop of color and flavor.
• Sesame Seeds: Sesame seeds, adding a nutty crunch and visual appeal, provide a classic garnish for Asian-inspired dishes, enhancing the textural contrast and adding a subtle nutty flavor that complements the Bang Bang Chicken beautifully. Toasted sesame seeds are preferred for their more intense flavor and aroma.

this …

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken?

Step-by-Step :

Creating sensational Bang Bang Chicken in your own kitchen is a surprisingly easy and rewarding culinary journey, effortlessly navigated by following these clear and concise steps, designed to maximize flavor and minimize active cooking time for a perfect weeknight meal that’s ready in minutes and explodes with deliciousness:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Tenderness and Flavor

In a medium bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with permissible buttermilk, ensuring each piece is generously coated in the marinade. Massaging the buttermilk into the chicken helps tenderize the meat and allows the breading to adhere better. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator, allowing the buttermilk to work its magic and infuse the chicken with flavor and tenderness. Marinating time is key for achieving juicy and flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating The “Bang” Factor

In a separate shallow dish, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper, thoroughly combining all dry ingredients and creating the flavorful breading mixture that will give the chicken its signature crispy coating. Whisking ensures even distribution of spices and prevents clumps in the breading.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken for Maximum Crunch

Remove the marinated chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting any excess buttermilk drip off, ensuring the breading adheres properly and prevents a soggy coating. Dredge each piece of buttermilk-soaked chicken thoroughly in the prepared flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading adheres completely and evenly coats every surface of the chicken. Ensure the chicken is fully coated in the breading for maximum crispiness. Set aside the breaded chicken pieces on a plate or baking sheet while you prepare to cook them.

Step 4: Fry or Bake the Chicken to Golden Perfection

For Frying: Heat permissible vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the oil is hot enough for crispy frying. Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan and maintaining oil temperature for optimal frying. Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per batch, or until golden brown and cooked through, achieving that signature crispy exterior and ensuring the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Frying in batches prevents overcrowding and ensures even cooking and crispiness. Remove the fried chicken pieces from the skillet or deep fryer and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.

For Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with permissible oil spray. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded for even baking and crisping. Lightly spray the breaded chicken pieces with permissible oil spray, promoting browning and crispiness during baking. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until golden brown and cooked through, achieving a healthier baked version of crispy Bang Bang Chicken. Baking time may vary depending on oven and chicken piece size.

Step 5: Whisk Together the “Bangin'” Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the signature Bang Bang sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together permissible mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sriracha sauce (if using), thoroughly combining all sauce ingredients and creating the creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that defines Bang Bang Chicken. Whisking until smooth ensures all ingredients are well combined and the sauce is creamy and homogenous. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your spice preference.

Step 6: Toss, Garnish, and Serve Your “Bangin'” Creation

Once the chicken is cooked and crispy (whether fried or baked), transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the crispy chicken, coating all pieces generously and ensuring every piece is drenched in the flavorful sauce. Toss gently to combine and coat the chicken evenly in the luscious Bang Bang sauce, creating the signature glazed and saucy Bang Bang Chicken. Garnish immediately with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a final touch of visual appeal, textural contrast, and fresh flavor. Serve Bang Bang Chicken immediately while hot and crispy, allowing everyone to enjoy the fresh and vibrant combination of crispy chicken and “bangin'” sauce. Serve as an appetizer, main course, or in wraps – the possibilities are endless! Encourage everyone to savor each crispy, creamy, spicy-sweet, and utterly addictive bite of their homemade Bang Bang Chicken sensation!

Tips for Variations

Extra Spicy “Bang Bang” Firecracker Chicken

For those who crave intense heat, ignite your taste buds and crank up the spice in your Bang Bang Chicken for an extra fiery experience. Increase the amount of sriracha sauce in the Bang Bang sauce to 2-3 teaspoons (or more, to taste) for a more pronounced spicy kick. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breading mixture for an extra layer of heat from the chicken itself.

Sesame Ginger “Bang Bang” Asian Fusion Chicken

Introduce a fragrant Asian-inspired twist to your Bang Bang Chicken by adding sesame and ginger notes. Add 1 tablespoon of permissible sesame oil to the Bang Bang sauce for a nutty aroma and flavor. Add 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger to the breading mixture for a warm, zesty ginger infusion. Garnish with extra toasted sesame seeds for enhanced nutty flavor and visual appeal.

Honey-Lime “Bang Bang” Refreshing Chicken

For a brighter and more refreshing flavor profile, infuse your Bang Bang Chicken with honey and lime notes. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice and increase the honey in the Bang Bang sauce to 3 tablespoons for a tangy-sweet and citrusy twist. Add the zest of 1 lime to the breading mixture for an extra layer of citrus aroma and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Bang Bang Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Serve Bang Bang Chicken in crisp lettuce cups (like romaine or butter lettuce) for a lighter and refreshing appetizer or meal. Spoon the Bang Bang Chicken filling into lettuce leaves and serve as flavorful and fun lettuce wraps, perfect for a healthier and interactive serving option.

Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowls

Serve Bang Bang Chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed white rice or brown rice for a classic and satisfying Asian-inspired meal. The rice provides a neutral base that soaks up the flavorful Bang Bang sauce, creating a balanced and comforting dish.

Bang Bang Chicken Noodle Bowls

Transform Bang Bang Chicken into a hearty noodle bowl by serving it over cooked permissible ramen noodles, udon noodles, or egg noodles. Add the noodles to a bowl and top with Bang Bang Chicken and extra sauce for a complete and satisfying noodle-based meal.

Bang Bang Chicken Salad

Create a vibrant and refreshing salad by tossing Bang Bang Chicken with mixed greens, shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing. The cool and crunchy salad provides a delightful contrast to the crispy and flavorful chicken, creating a balanced and satisfying salad meal.

FAQ

Can I bake the Bang Bang Chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a permissible and healthier alternative to frying. Follow the baking instructions in Step 4 for a crispy baked version of Bang Bang Chicken. The texture will be slightly different from fried chicken, but still deliciously crispy.

How long can I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is best enjoyed fresh and crispy. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The chicken will lose some of its crispiness upon refrigeration. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to help restore some crispness, or enjoy cold in salads or wraps.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the Bang Bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes meal prep easier and allows the flavors to meld even further.

What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?

If sweet chili sauce is unavailable, you can create a permissible substitute by combining permissible chili garlic sauce with honey or maple syrup to achieve a similar sweet and spicy flavor profile. Adjust the ratios to your desired sweetness and spice level.

Print