Bang Bang Chicken: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Dish

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Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken has a special place in my heart. The first time I tasted this crispy fried chicken, I was at a friend’s dinner party. The vibrant flavors of the Bang Bang Chicken sauce danced on my palate, leaving me craving more. I remember the laughter and chatter around the table, with everyone raving about this dish. It’s a delightful combination of spicy and sweet that makes every bite a joy. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, this recipe will bring everyone together. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken

  • Quick and easy to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes.
  • Perfect for busy weeknights or surprising guests.
  • A delightful blend of flavors: crispy chicken coated in a creamy sauce.
  • Great for meal prep; store leftovers for future lunches.
  • Pairs wonderfully with rice or veggies like broccoli.
  • Adaptable for spicy Bang Bang Chicken variations or milder versions.

Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken

Here’s everything you need for this delicious dish:

  • 1.5 pounds chicken thighs – cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking
  • 1 cup cornstarch – for that perfect crispy coating
  • 1 teaspoon salt – enhances the flavors of the chicken
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle kick
  • 2 eggs, beaten – helps the cornstarch stick to the chicken
  • Oil for frying – choose a high smoke point oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise – creamy base for the sauce
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce – gives the sauce its sweet flavor
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha – adds the spicy kick
  • 1 tablespoon honey – rounds out the sauce with sweetness

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

  1. Step 1: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Step 2: In a bowl, beat the eggs and set aside. In another bowl, place the cornstarch.
  3. Step 3: Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then dredge in the cornstarch until fully coated.
  4. Step 4: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Carefully fry the chicken in batches for 3-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Step 5: Once cooked, drain the chicken on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  6. Step 6: In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey to create the Bang Bang Chicken sauce.
  7. Step 7: Toss the fried chicken in the sauce or drizzle it over the top for an even coating.
  8. Step 8: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Delicious Bang Bang Chicken with crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, garnished with green onions, served in a white bowl.

Pro Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken

These tips will elevate your dish:

  • Use chicken thighs for juiciness; they are less likely to dry out compared to breasts.
  • Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature for a crispy texture.
  • Consider adding Bang Bang Chicken with shrimp for a delightful twist.

What’s the secret to perfect Bang Bang Chicken?

The secret lies in the cornstarch coating and frying at the right temperature. This ensures that the chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven to retain its crispiness.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Bang Bang Chicken?

Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying, as it lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy chicken. Also, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that perfect crisp.

Close-up of crispy Bang Bang Chicken pieces drizzled with creamy sauce and fresh herbs, showcasing the texture and vibrant colors.

Best Ways to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over steamed rice or alongside sautéed broccoli for a complete meal. You can also use it in wraps with fresh veggies for a quick lunch. Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad or a light dipping sauce for an appetizer.

Nutrition Facts for Bang Bang Chicken

Per serving (recipe makes 4 servings):

  • Calories: 540
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Bang Bang Chicken

Allow the Bang Bang Chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Chicken

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy fried chicken dish coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce. Originating from Asian cuisine, it’s a popular choice for both appetizers and main courses.

Why is it called Bang Bang Chicken?

The name is thought to stem from the “bang bang” sound of the chicken being pounded or the spicy flavors that “bang” on your taste buds!

What goes well with Bang Bang Chicken?

It pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or even as a filling in wraps. Consider adding a refreshing salad on the side for a balanced meal.

What are some variations of Bang Bang Chicken?

Explore variations like Bang Bang Chicken with shrimp or add different spices to the sauce for unique flavors. You can also make it gluten-free by using gluten-free cornstarch.

Variations of Bang Bang Chicken You Can Try

Don’t hesitate to mix things up! You can make Homemade Bang Bang Chicken using different proteins like tofu or shrimp. Try Bang Bang Chicken and broccoli for a healthy twist or add your favorite veggies to the frying mix.

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Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Dish


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  • Author: Fenna Saul
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy, golden fried chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

  1. Cut chicken into chunks and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Beat eggs in a bowl and prepare a separate bowl with cornstarch.
  3. Dip chicken into egg then dredge in cornstarch until coated.
  4. Heat oil and fry chicken in batches for 3–5 minutes until golden.
  5. Drain on paper towels.
  6. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey.
  7. Toss the fried chicken with the sauce or drizzle it over the top.
  8. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 15 minutes
    • Category: Main Dish
    • Method: Frying
    • Cuisine: Asian

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 serving
    • Calories: 540
    • Sugar: 10g
    • Sodium: 800mg
    • Fat: 34g
    • Saturated Fat: 5g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 29g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Carbohydrates: 26g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Protein: 32g
    • Cholesterol: 150mg

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