This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a tasty treat! It’s made with tender chicken pieces coated in crispy batter, giving each bite a crunchy delight. Plus, that sweet and spicy sauce keeps you coming back for more!
I can’t help but love how easy this recipe is! You just fry up the chicken, toss it in the sauce, and voilà—dinner is ready! Perfect for a fun family meal or a tasty snack while binge-watching your favorite show.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work too. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian twist!
Flour & Cornstarch: The combo of all-purpose flour and cornstarch makes the coating extra crispy. If you’re gluten-free, a gluten-free flour blend can substitute both with great results!
Bang Bang Sauce: The mayonnaise creates a creamy base. If you prefer a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead. For a kick, feel free to add more Sriracha or fresh chili!
Oil: Vegetable oil is great, but peanut oil is my personal favorite for frying due to its high smoke point and flavor. Olive oil is not recommended for frying at this temperature.
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch is essential! Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out crispy every time:
- Pat the chicken dry before dipping it into the batter. This helps the coating stick better.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough. If it’s not hot, the chicken could soak up too much oil and become soggy.
- Fry in batches! Overcrowding the pan drops the oil temperature, leading them to steam instead of fry.
- After frying, let the chicken rest on paper towels to absorb any excess oil, keeping it crispy.
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cold water (or as needed to make batter)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp Sriracha sauce (adjust to your preferred spice level)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp lime juice (optional, for brightness)
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes for cooking, totaling around 40 minutes before you can dig in. Perfect for a quick dinner or tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in cold water until you have a smooth batter that’s thick enough to coat the chicken pieces well. You want it to be like pancake batter but a little thicker.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Next, take your bite-sized chicken pieces and add them into the batter. Make sure to stir well so that each piece is evenly coated in the tasty mixture.
3. Heat Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in about 2 inches of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of batter into it—if it sizzles and bubbles, you’re good to go!
4. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully drop the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature. Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While you’re frying the chicken, take a small bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, optional honey, and lime juice until it’s smooth and well combined.
6. Toss Chicken in Sauce:
Once all the chicken is fried and drained, place the crispy pieces into a large bowl and pour the Bang Bang sauce over them. Toss it gently to make sure each piece is nicely coated in the sauce.
7. Serve:
Transfer your crispy Bang Bang Chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if you’d like. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!
Now you’re ready to enjoy a delicious plate of crispy Bang Bang Chicken! Perfect for sharing or just indulging. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly: shrimp will need less time, while cauliflower may require a bit longer.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a single layer in a hot skillet for a few minutes to regain its crispy texture. You can also use an air fryer to reheat!
What If I Don’t Have Cornstarch?
No worries! You can replace cornstarch with an equal amount of additional all-purpose flour. Although the coating may be slightly less crispy, it will still be delicious.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate slightly when stored.