Bang Bang Chicken Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to a Flavor-Packed Dish

Introduction

If you’re a fan of crispy, juicy chicken coated in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce, then Bang Bang Chicken is a recipe you’ll absolutely love! This dish has taken the culinary world by storm, thanks to its irresistible crunch and bold flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or a party appetizer, Bang Bang Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that never fails.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Bang Bang Chicken, including its origins, essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, variations, storage tips, and much more. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be able to make a restaurant-quality Bang Bang Chicken right in your own kitchen.

Table of Contents

1. The Origin of Bang Bang Chicken
2. Essential Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken
3. How to Make Bang Bang Chicken: Step-by-Step Instructions
4. The Secret Behind the Famous Bang Bang Sauce
5. Why This Recipe Works So Well
6. Variations and Customization Ideas
7. Nutritional Breakdown
8. Common Mistakes to Avoid
9. Best Side Dishes to Serve With Bang Bang Chicken
10. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
11. Frequently Asked Questions
12. Conclusion

1. The Origin of Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is believed to have originated in Sichuan, China, where it was traditionally made with poached chicken, shredded and tossed in a spicy sesame-based sauce. Over time, the dish evolved into its more popular, Westernized version—crispy battered chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce.

The name “Bang Bang” comes from the sound of meat being pounded with a wooden stick to tenderize it. Today, the Westernized version, made famous by restaurant chains like Bonefish Grill, features crispy fried chicken tossed in a delicious Bang Bang sauce.

this PIN FOR LATER

2. Essential Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• ½ tsp garlic powder

3. How to Make Bang Bang Chicken: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix buttermilk, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

1. In one bowl, whisk egg.
2. In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.

Step 3: Coat and Fry the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Take each marinated chicken piece, dip it into the egg mixture, then coat it in the flour mixture.
3. Fry the chicken in batches for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
4. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder.
2. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

1. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the Bang Bang sauce.
2. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.

4. The Secret Behind the Famous Bang Bang Sauce

The Bang Bang sauce is what truly makes this dish irresistible. The combination of creamy mayo, spicy Sriracha, and sweet chili sauce creates a balanced yet bold flavor. To adjust the sauce to your liking:

• Add more Sriracha for extra heat.
• Increase honey for more sweetness.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier twist.

5. Why This Recipe Works So Well

• Double-coating the chicken ensures extra crispiness.
• Marinating in buttermilk makes the chicken tender.
• The Bang Bang sauce delivers the perfect balance of flavors.

6. Variations and Customization Ideas

• Make it healthier: Air-fry or bake instead of deep-frying.
• Use shrimp instead of chicken for Bang Bang Shrimp.
• Add a crunch: Toss in crushed peanuts or crispy onions.

7. Nutritional Breakdown

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	~450 kcal
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	22g

(Note: Values vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not marinating long enough: This impacts tenderness.
• Frying at the wrong temperature: Too low = greasy chicken; too high = burnt coating.
• Skipping the cornstarch: It’s key for extra crispiness.

9. Best Side Dishes to Serve With Bang Bang Chicken

• Steamed jasmine rice
• Asian slaw
• Garlic butter noodles
• Crispy sweet potato fries

10. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in an oven at 350°F for crispiness.
• Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crispy coating.

11. Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I bake instead of frying? Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

What’s the best oil for frying? Use vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Can I make the sauce in advance? Absolutely! Store in the fridge for up to a week.

12. Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken is crispy, spicy, creamy, and utterly delicious. With the right technique, fresh ingredients, and the perfect Bang Bang sauce, you can elevate this dish beyond restaurant quality. Try this recipe today and enjoy a meal that’s bold in flavor and simple to make! 🍗🔥

Print