why make this recipe
Bang Bang Chicken is a flavorful dish that brings a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and creamy in every bite. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, it can be served as a main dish or an appetizer, making it versatile for any occasion.
how to make Bang Bang Chicken
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, for garnish)
Directions:
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Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until well combined. Set aside.
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Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken tenderloins in a large bowl and pour in buttermilk. Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes.
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Coat the Chicken: In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and add in 1 tablespoon of Sriracha.
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Bread the Chicken: Take each piece of chicken, coat it in the flour mixture, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it in panko breadcrumbs. Make sure each piece is thoroughly covered.
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Fry the Chicken: Heat canola oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from oil and drain on paper towels. Toss the chicken in the Bang Bang sauce until well coated.
how to serve Bang Bang Chicken
Serve your Bang Bang Chicken hot, garnished with chopped parsley. It pairs wonderfully with rice or a fresh salad. You can also serve extra Bang Bang Sauce on the side for dipping.
how to store Bang Bang Chicken
To store leftover Bang Bang Chicken, first let it cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be enjoyed refrigerated for three to four days. Reheat in the oven for best results, ensuring it stays crispy.
tips to make Bang Bang Chicken
- For extra crunch, consider double-breading the chicken by dipping it back into the flour mix before the breadcrumbs.
- Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less Sriracha to the sauce, depending on your preference.
- Make sure your oil is sufficiently hot before frying to avoid soggy chicken.
variation
You can make Bang Bang Chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist. Simply substitute the chicken with your desired protein and follow the same cooking method.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake Bang Bang Chicken instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated chicken on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Q: Is it possible to make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version of this dish.
Q: How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?
A: The spiciness can be adjusted based on how much Sriracha you use in the sauce. Start with a little and add more if you prefer it spicier!