Name: Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 16 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise; ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce; 1 teaspoon Sriracha, or more to taste; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins; 1 cup (245 g) buttermilk; ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour; ½ cup (64 g) cornstarch; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 tablespoon Sriracha; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional; 2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs, plain; Canola oil, for frying; Parsley, chopped

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If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors with a satisfying crunch, this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is absolutely for you. It’s a delightful combination of tender chicken tenders coated in a crispy panko crust and drenched in a luscious, homemade bang bang sauce that bursts with flavor in every bite. Whether you're cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe brings the bold flavor and addictive texture you didn’t even know you needed in your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a metal tray lined with light brown parchment paper holding six pieces of golden brown fried chicken tenders. The tenders are covered with a shiny, thick, light amber glaze with red and white bits in it, giving a sticky and glossy look. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled evenly over the chicken. On the bottom left corner of the tray, there is a small white bowl filled with a creamy, pale yellow dipping sauce with tiny red specks inside. The tray is placed on a wooden surface with some scattered green herbs around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients may look simple, but they each play a crucial role in delivering the unique texture and signature taste that makes this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe so irresistible. From the creamy mayonnaise to the spicy-sweet Thai chili sauce, every item is essential to achieving that perfect flavor harmony.

Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy base for the bang bang sauce, balancing heat and sweetness.
Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds a subtle sweetness with a gentle kick, key for authentic flavor.
Sriracha: Brings the heat and depth of spice to both sauce and batter.
Honey: Sweetens the sauce naturally, rounding out the spicy notes.
Boneless skinless chicken tenderloins: Perfectly tender and quick-cooking for a juicy interior.
Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the batter stick.
All-purpose flour and cornstarch: Work together to create a light, crispy coating.
Egg: Binds ingredients in the batter for even coating.
Garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper: Season the batter, adding layers of flavor and a subtle heat.
Panko breadcrumbs: Deliver the signature crunch that elevates this chicken dish.
Canola oil: Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Parsley: Fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and light herbaceous note.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

Start by mixing together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a small bowl. This combination creates a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that defines this dish. Set the sauce aside to let the flavors meld as you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Make the Batter and Coat the Chicken

In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want an extra kick. Add the chicken tenderloins to this batter and toss until they are thoroughly coated in the flavorful mixture, ensuring every tender gets soaked with seasoning and moisture.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Pour panko breadcrumbs onto a shallow plate. Remove each chicken piece from the batter, letting excess drip off, then dredge it carefully in the panko. Press the crumbs onto the chicken lightly so they stick well, creating the essential crunchy layer that makes this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe so addictive.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat about an inch of canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F. Fry the chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure the chicken is cooked through. Drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Transfer the crispy chicken to a serving dish, then drizzle generously with the prepared bang bang sauce. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch. Serve warm for the best flavor and crunch.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

On a white plate, there are three pieces of golden brown fried chicken wings covered in a shiny, creamy sauce with small bits of herbs and spices visible. The wings have a crispy, textured surface with some green chopped parsley sprinkled on top. To the right side of the wings, there is a serving of white rice with small green herb pieces mixed in. The plate sits on a wooden table with a white marbled texture beneath. A small white bowl with extra sauce is visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a lovely green contrast but also cuts through some richness with its slight herbaceous bite—plus it makes the dish photo-ready!

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with fluffy jasmine rice or a crisp Asian slaw for a balanced meal that complements the bold flavors without overpowering them. A simple cucumber salad with light vinaigrette also works beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party setting, serve bang bang chicken over a bed of steamed rice noodles or shredded lettuce cups for a fun handheld option. You could even turn it into sliders by placing the crispy chicken and sauce between mini buns with a dollop of slaw on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover bang bang chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to preserve the chicken’s crunch.

Freezing

Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring back some of the original crispness, reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crispy texture, but if pressed for time, microwave briefly and then crisp up in a hot pan.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins for this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! You can cut chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders and follow the same coating and frying process. Just watch the cooking time closely to avoid drying out the chicken.

Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Bake the breaded chicken at 400°F on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.

How spicy is this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe?

The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted easily. Feel free to add more or cayenne if you prefer extra heat, or reduce them for a milder option—this recipe is very flexible!

Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The sauce tastes even better when it has time to rest. Prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.

What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture will be less crispy and airy. Crushed cornflakes or crushed tortilla chips are fun alternatives that bring their own crunch and flavor twist.

Final Thoughts

This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration every time you make it. Crispy, creamy, a little spicy, and full of vibrant flavor, it effortlessly becomes a family favorite or party hit. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easy and rewarding it is to make this tasty dish right at home!

Ingredients You'll Need