Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Introduction

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is one of those dishes that you just can’t stop eating once you start. The crispy, golden chicken paired with that creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s so satisfying. It’s the perfect mix of crunch, heat, and a touch of sweetness, making every bite feel like a mini celebration.

What I love about this recipe is how the chicken stays perfectly crispy, even after being tossed in that irresistible sauce. The homemade Bang Bang sauce is what really takes it to the next level—rich, creamy, with just the right amount of spice to keep you coming back for more. It’s easy to make, and the ingredients come together quickly, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen for hours.

I first made this dish when I was craving something flavorful but didn’t want to spend too much time cooking. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal but also fancy enough to serve at a party. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it on its own, over rice, or with a side of veggies, making it adaptable for any occasion.

If you’re looking for a crispy, creamy, and spicy chicken dish that’s sure to be a hit, this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is definitely the way to go! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media – I love seeing your delicious creations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Why is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken so irresistible? Here are a few reasons why it’s a must-try:

• Perfect Crunch: The crispy, golden exterior of the chicken paired with the tender inside creates a delightful contrast you’ll love with every bite.
• Spicy and Creamy Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce is the star here—creamy with a touch of spice and sweetness that brings everything together.
• Versatile: You can serve it as an appetizer, a main course, or even toss it over rice or in wraps for an added twist.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe doesn’t take long to prepare but delivers a restaurant-quality meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish will impress. It’s perfect for a fun dinner night or a special occasion.
• Make It Your Own: Want it extra spicy? Or maybe you want a sweeter sauce? Feel free to adjust the sauce to your personal preferences.
• No Deep Frying: We’re baking the chicken to keep it crispy without the mess of frying.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Fat: 15g, Carbohydrates: 20g, Fiber: 2g

Ingredients

To make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil spray or a little oil for baking

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for more or less heat)
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar (optional for a bit of tang)
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is straightforward and quick! Here’s how to do it:

1: Prepare the Chicken

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Cut your chicken into bite-sized strips or pieces. This makes it easier to coat and ensures an even crisp.
• Set up your breading station: in one shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs.

2: Coat the Chicken

• Dredge each piece of chicken first in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
• Lay the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.

3: Bake the Chicken

• Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil spray to help it crisp up.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through inside.

4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

• While the chicken is baking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar (if using), and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Taste and adjust the spice or sweetness to your preference.

5: Coat the Chicken in Sauce

• Once the chicken is cooked and crispy, place the chicken in a large bowl. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.

6: Serve and Enjoy

• Serve your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with a side of rice, fresh veggies, or even in a wrap. Garnish with chopped green onions, cilantro, or sesame seeds if desired.

How to Serve

• As an appetizer: Serve it with a side of extra sauce for dipping, and maybe some crispy fries or veggies on the side.
• On top of rice: Serve the crispy chicken on a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal.
• In wraps or tacos: For a fun twist, toss the crispy chicken in a tortilla with some fresh veggies and a drizzle of sauce.
• With a salad: Add the crispy chicken on top of a fresh, crisp salad for a lighter meal with a punch of flavor.

Additional Tips

To make your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken even more perfect, consider these tips:

1. For Extra Crisp: If you want the chicken extra crispy, double coat the chicken. Dip the chicken in the egg mixture and breadcrumb mixture, then repeat.
2. Make It Spicy: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to make it as spicy as you like. You can also add some chopped jalapeños for an added kick.
3. Chicken Thighs: If you prefer chicken thighs, they work great in this recipe, too, for a juicier bite.
4. Dipping Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce is great as a dipping sauce, so serve some on the side if you want a little extra flavor.
5. Meal Prep: This chicken stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chicken pieces before baking and bake them straight from the freezer.

Recipe Variations

Want to mix things up a bit? Here are some variations to try:

• Bang Bang Shrimp: Swap out the chicken for shrimp for a delicious twist on the original recipe.
• Vegan Bang Bang Chicken: Use crispy tofu or tempeh as a substitute for chicken for a plant-based version.
• Bang Bang Veggies: If you’re craving a lighter option, try using cauliflower or other hearty vegetables in place of chicken for a veggie-packed meal.
• Air Fryer Option: If you prefer to use an air fryer, cook the coated chicken pieces at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until crispy.

Freezing and Storage

If you have any leftovers, here’s how to store them:

• Storage: Store any leftover crispy chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked coated chicken pieces (before baking) for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheating: To keep the chicken crispy, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the breading soggy.

Special Equipment

• Shallow Dishes: For easy breading of the chicken.
• Baking Sheet: To cook the chicken to golden, crispy perfection.
• Whisk: For mixing the sauce and ensuring a smooth texture.

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions about Crispy Bang Bang Chicken:

• Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
  Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option and add extra flavor and juiciness to the dish.
• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes! You can prepare the chicken ahead of time, coat it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. The sauce can also be made in advance.
• Can I make the sauce spicier?
  Definitely! Add more sriracha or a bit of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
• How do I make this gluten-free?
  Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour as substitutes, and this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.
• Can I freeze the chicken?
• Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken (before baking). Place the pieces on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, bake them from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time.
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The rest of the recipe stays the same!
• Can I use other proteins like shrimp or tofu?
• Yes! This recipe is very versatile. You can swap the chicken for shrimp for a lighter twist or use crispy tofu for a vegetarian option. Both will work beautifully with the Bang Bang sauce.

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Conclusion

There you have it—crispy, spicy, and creamy Bang Bang Chicken that’s sure to steal the spotlight at any meal. Whether you serve it as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite sides, the combination of bold flavors and satisfying textures will leave everyone coming back for more. It’s easy to make, super flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. So grab your ingredients, whip up this mouthwatering dish, and get ready to impress! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations!