This Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a fun and tasty dish! It’s all about crunchy chicken bites coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that packs a punch.
I can’t get enough of the crispy texture and that zesty flavor! Serve it with rice, and you’ve got a quick meal that feels like a treat. Yum! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken breasts or thighs are great here. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey can work well too. For a vegetarian twist, try breaded tofu or cauliflower florets instead.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko adds that crispy texture we love! If you don’t have it, regular breadcrumbs can be substituted, though the texture won’t be as light and crispy.
Mayonnaise: This is key for the sauce. If you’re seeking a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It offers creaminess but with less fat.
Sweet Chili Sauce: If you’re unable to find sweet chili sauce, you can use honey mixed with a little soy sauce for a similar sweetness, but it will lack the unique flavor.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
To achieve that golden, crispy coating, follow this simple breading method. It ensures the chicken stays crunchy without being greasy.
- Make sure to dry the chicken well before breading; this helps the coating stick.
- When breading, make sure to fully coat the chicken in flour, then dip in egg, and finally ensure you’re using enough panko for a thick layer.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; this keeps the oil hot and helps the chicken fry evenly.
- Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature—350°F is ideal for golden chicken.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy Bang Bang Chicken that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, to balance spice)
- 1 tbsp lime juice or rice vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick, delicious option for a weekday dinner or a fun appetizer for gatherings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the breading stick better. Season the chicken with salt and pepper for added flavor.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
To bread the chicken, set up three bowls. In the first bowl, pour the flour. In the second, beat the eggs well. In the third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs. This will help in creating a crispy coating.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and dip it into the flour first, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s completely coated. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently so they stick.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or deep frying pan, pour about 1 to 1 1/2 inches of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small piece of bread – it should sizzle and float to the top.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha (to your desired spice level), honey (if you want a touch of sweetness), and lime juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
7. Combine and Serve:
Toss the hot fried chicken pieces in the Bang Bang sauce until well coated. Serve immediately. For an extra touch, garnish with sliced green onions or chopped cilantro. This dish is great on its own or served with steamed rice!
Enjoy your Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken! It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQs for Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed first! Thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning and breading for the best results.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring it stays crispy by avoiding too much moisture.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the Bang Bang sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure it’s well mixed.
What Can I Serve With Bang Bang Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it as an appetizer or snack on its own. Enjoy your meal!
