This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are coated with a crunchy layer, then drizzled with a sweet and spicy sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
I love how quick and simple it is to whip this up for dinner. Pair it with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a winning meal that even picky eaters enjoy! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite because they stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but keep an eye on cooking time as they can dry out faster.
Flour and Cornstarch: The combo of these two makes the chicken super crispy! If you’re looking for gluten-free, try a mix of rice flour and cornstarch instead. It works really well!
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise gives a creamy base, but Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap if you’re looking to cut calories. For more spice, add extra sriracha to suit your taste!
How Do I Get The Chicken Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crunch, follow these steps closely:
- Ensure your oil is hot enough—around 350°F (175°C)—before adding the chicken. You can test it by dropping a bit of the flour mixture; it should sizzle.
- Don’t crowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature. This way, the chicken cooks evenly and gets that crispy outer layer.
- Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to create a thicker crust. The more coating, the crunchier it will be!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and simple, making it the perfect weeknight dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your chicken a nice crispy crust!
2. Beat the Eggs:
In a separate bowl, crack and beat the two large eggs until they’re mixed well. This will help the coating stick to the chicken.
3. Dredge the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the beaten eggs, coating it completely. Next, dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks well. Place all the coated chicken pieces on a plate while you prepare to fry.
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, pour in about 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oil is hot enough for crispy frying!
5. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes per batch or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a kitchen thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain the Chicken:
Once fried, remove the chicken using a slotted spoon and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
7. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until it’s all smooth and well combined. Adjust the heat to your liking by adding more sriracha if you want it spicier!
8. Combine and Serve:
You can either drizzle the sauce generously over the crispy chicken or toss the chicken gently in the sauce to coat evenly. It’s all about your preference!
9. Ready to Enjoy!
Serve your delicious crispy Bang Bang Chicken immediately with a side of steamed rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh touch. Enjoy every crunchy, spicy, creamy bite!
Enjoy your crispy, spicy, creamy Bang Bang Chicken!
FAQ for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can absolutely use chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that they may cook a bit quicker than thighs, so adjust your frying time to avoid overcooking and drying them out.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Sauce?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It keeps the creamy texture while adding a tangy flavor. You can also try using sour cream if you prefer!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain its crispiness.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the bang bang sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to make sure everything is well mixed.
