This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is the ultimate treat! It’s crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside, paired with a simple and zesty sauce that brings it all together.
You really can’t go wrong with this dish! I love whipping it up for quick dinners or game nights. Just add some rice or veggies, and you’re all set for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I suggest using boneless, skinless thighs for more juiciness, but breast meat works great too. If you’re vegetarian, try crispy tofu or tempeh in place of chicken.
Flour and Cornstarch: The combo gives the chicken a perfect crunch! If you’re gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free flour or a blend of cornstarch and rice flour.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead. It still gives creaminess but with added protein. If you’re vegan, look for plant-based mayo.
Sweet Chili Sauce: If you’re in a pinch, a mixture of ketchup and a bit of sugar can work. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still be tasty!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
Getting that crispy texture can be tricky, but here are my tips! First, make sure your oil is hot enough. If it’s not hot, the chicken will soak up oil and become soggy.
- Preheat your oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test it with a small piece of bread; it should sizzle when dropped in.
- Coat the chicken well. A good layer of the flour mixture is key for crispiness.
- Fry in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep the temperature stable.
- Drain on paper towels right after frying to remove excess oil.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken With Easy Sauce
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
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp sriracha sauce (adjust to your preferred spice level)
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes for crispy, flavorful Bang Bang Chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cracking two large eggs into a bowl and whisking them together until they are well blended. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper together. This will help create a deliciously crispy coating for the chicken.
2. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and dip it into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then, coat it in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is fully covered. Set the coated chicken pieces aside on a plate while you prepare the oil for frying.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, pour enough vegetable oil to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat it over medium-high heat until the oil is hot enough (about 350°F or 175°C). You can test it by dropping in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle and turn golden in about 60 seconds.
4. Fry the Chicken:
Once your oil is hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes per batch or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked chicken and let it drain on paper towels.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is frying, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar (or lime juice) in a small bowl. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
6. Assemble the Dish:
Once all the chicken is fried, take a large bowl and add the crispy chicken pieces. Drizzle enough bang bang sauce over the chicken to coat it nicely, and toss gently to combine.
7. Serve:
Transfer the coated chicken to a serving plate. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if you’re using them. This crispy chicken is best served immediately with a side of steamed rice or a crunchy salad!
Enjoy your delicious, crispy, and spicy Bang Bang Chicken!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it first! Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for safety or use the quick-thaw method by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water until thawed, which usually takes about an hour.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for the coating. Many brands offer gluten-free flour blends that work well. Double-check to ensure your sauce ingredients (like the sweet chili sauce) are also gluten-free!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and coating in advance! Coat the chicken pieces and store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. However, it’s best to fry the chicken just before serving for maximum crispiness. The sauce can be made ahead as well; just store it in the fridge and mix before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to help regain its crispiness rather than using a microwave, which can make it soggy.
