Bang Bang Chicken is an explosion of flavor that will dance on your taste buds and leave you craving more. Imagine juicy chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that makes every bite a delightful experience. The aroma wafting from your kitchen will have everyone wandering in, wondering what delicious magic you’re creating.
This dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory-maker! I remember the first time I tried Bang Bang Chicken at a friend’s dinner party. Everyone was laughing, dipping their forks into the vibrant sauce, and sharing stories of their culinary mishaps—like burning toast or mistaking salt for sugar. It was perfect for that gathering, bringing people together with its bold flavors and fun presentation. If you’re looking for an excuse to throw a dinner party or simply want to spoil yourself on a weeknight, this recipe promises an amazing flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its sweet and spicy flavor profile will tantalize your taste buds like no other dish
- The beautiful color contrasts make it visually appealing and Instagram-worthy on any table spread
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or even as a sandwich filling!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Typically, about 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust based on your crowd size.
All-Purpose Flour: For dredging the chicken and creating that crispy exterior; sift for even coating.
Eggs: These help the flour adhere to the chicken perfectly; use large eggs for optimal binding.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunchiness; they create a delightful texture that will make you reach for seconds.
For the Sauce:
Sriracha: This adds that signature kick; adjust according to your spice tolerance—more heat means more fun!
Mayonnaise: A creamy base for the sauce; choose full-fat for rich flavor or light if you’re watching calories.
Honey: Balances out the heat with sweetness; local honey can add unique flavors based on your region.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat them dry with paper towels; this helps achieve that coveted crispy texture.
Step 2: Dredge in Flour
Set up a dredging station: one bowl with flour seasoned generously with salt and pepper, another with beaten eggs, and a third with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken piece into flour first, then egg, and finally coat it well in panko.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat about an inch of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the breaded chicken pieces in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels afterward.
Step 4: Whip Up the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, and honey until smooth. Adjust seasoning according to your preference—more honey if you like it sweeter or more sriracha if you’re feeling adventurous!
Step 5: Toss It All Together
Once the chicken is done frying and crisped to perfection, toss it gently in the sauce until all pieces are well coated.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer the sauced-up Bang Bang Chicken onto plates or a serving platter. Feel free to garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for that extra pop before diving in!
Serving suggestion: Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This Bang Bang Chicken recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken to infuse it with flavor. While it soaks, prepare your sauce and chop any veggies you want to add. Sear the chicken first for that delightful crispiness, then finish cooking in the sauce for a perfect blend of flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this Bang Bang Chicken recipe! Swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu, use different nut butters, or spice things up with chili flakes. Add veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken juicy and avoid sogginess. A splash of water can help rejuvenate the sauce.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible to enhance flavors significantly
- Marinating overnight elevates taste and tenderness
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust sweetness or spice levels according to your preference
I remember the first time I made Bang Bang Chicken for a dinner party. My friends devoured every last bite, declaring it the highlight of the evening!
FAQs :
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a popular Asian-inspired dish known for its bold flavors and delightful crunch. This dish typically features tender chicken pieces coated in a spicy, creamy sauce made from ingredients like peanut butter, chili paste, and various seasonings. The name “Bang Bang” comes from the sound of the ingredients being mixed together to create this vibrant sauce. Served over rice or noodles, Bang Bang Chicken offers an exciting way to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal.
How do you make Bang Bang Chicken sauce?
To prepare the sauce for Bang Bang Chicken, start by mixing together creamy peanut butter, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and a touch of lime juice for zest. Some recipes also include garlic and ginger for added depth of flavor. Whisk these ingredients until smooth and well combined. Adjust the spice level according to your preference by adding more or less chili paste. This sauce not only coats the chicken beautifully but also adds layers of flavor that make the dish irresistible.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components of Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also make the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the chicken and mix it with the sauce for a quick meal. However, it’s best to avoid combining everything until just before serving to ensure that the chicken remains crispy.
What are some side dishes that pair well with Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice provides a perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce. Alternatively, you can serve it with stir-fried vegetables for a colorful plate filled with nutrients. A fresh cucumber salad or Asian slaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors of the chicken.
Conclusion for Bang Bang Chicken :
In summary, Bang Bang Chicken is a deliciously spicy dish that’s easy to prepare at home. With its creamy sauce and tender chicken pieces, it creates an explosion of flavors that everyone will love. Whether you choose to enjoy it over rice or as part of a meal spread with sides, this recipe has something for everyone. Preparing this dish ahead of time allows you to savor its taste whenever you’re ready for a satisfying meal. Try making this dish today for an unforgettable dining experience!
Bang Bang Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Bang Bang Chicken is a flavor-packed dish featuring crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lively dinner parties, providing an irresistible taste that will keep your guests coming back for more. With its vibrant appearance and delightful crunch, Bang Bang Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry.
- Set up three bowls: one with seasoned flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat with panko.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown (5-6 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and honey until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Toss fried chicken in the sauce until well-coated and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (85g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
