Easy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

There’s something downright irresistible about sinking your teeth into a piping hot plate of Easy Bang Bang Chicken. This recipe serves up incredibly juicy, crispy chicken tenders dripping with a luxuriously creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you need a crowd-pleasing main course or just want to spice up your weeknight dinner, this Easy Bang Bang Chicken never fails to deliver big flavor with minimum fuss. If you haven’t already fallen in love with this restaurant favorite, you’ll definitely be hooked after just one bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Expect a happy marriage of simple ingredients that transform into magic when combined. Each element in this Easy Bang Bang Chicken recipe brings its own flavor, crunch, or creamy zing, so be sure to use quality staples for mouthwatering results!

• Mayonnaise: This forms the creamy base for the Bang Bang sauce and delivers that signature silky texture.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds sweet heat and a vivid burst of color, perfectly balancing the sauce.
• Hot Sauce (Sriracha): Bring on the gentle fire—Sriracha delivers just enough punch.
• Honey (or sugar): The secret to that subtle sweetness in every bite.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the sauce and the chicken, drawing out every nuanced flavor.
• Chicken Tenderloins: Boneless and skinless, these cook up tender and juicy every time.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: The trick to ultra-crispy chicken—these airy crumbs give unbeatable crunch.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the batter, ensuring your coating holds on tight.
• Cornstarch: Lightens the batter and amps up that crisp, golden crust.
• Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the batter cling beautifully.
• Egg: Binds everything together for that perfect fried finish.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory undertone that makes the flavor pop.
• Paprika: For warm, smoky complexity and appealing color.
• Oil for Frying: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for crisp, non-greasy results.
• Parsley (chopped): The finishing touch, adding freshness and a splash of green.

How to Make Easy Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Whip Up the Bang Bang Sauce

First things first—let’s make that crave-worthy Bang Bang sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Taste the sauce and adjust the heat level by adding more Sriracha if you like things spicy. Pop the bowl in the fridge to chill while you work on the chicken. This gives all the flavors a chance to meld for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Batter

Grab a large mixing bowl and add buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, more Sriracha, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until you have a thick, smooth batter—it should cling nicely to your chicken. This flavorful coating is the secret to crispy but juicy chicken that stands up to the bold Bang Bang sauce.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Add the chicken tenderloins to the batter, making sure each piece is fully coated. Then, in a wide shallow dish, spread out the panko breadcrumbs. One by one, transfer the battered chicken tenderloins to the panko, pressing the crumbs on gently so they stick well and form a thick, even crust. Set the coated pieces on a baking sheet; you’re almost ready to fry.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken to Crispy Perfection

Pour enough oil into a large, deep skillet or frying pan to come halfway up the chicken pieces. Heat it over medium-high until a breadcrumb sizzles and immediately floats when dropped in—that means it’s hot enough. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Each tender will take about 4-5 minutes per side, turning a gorgeous golden brown as they cook. Once done, transfer the crispy tenders to a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 5: Sauce and Serve

Now comes the fun part! Generously drizzle or brush your prepared Bang Bang sauce all over the hot, crispy chicken tenders. Give each piece a good coating—you want that creamy, spicy, sweet magic on every bite. Arrange on a platter, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a flash of color, and get ready to dig right in!

How to Serve Easy Bang Bang Chicken

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Easy Bang Bang Chicken with plenty of chopped fresh parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness. You could also add a pinch of sliced green onions or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a little extra crunch and flair.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed rice, a crisp Asian slaw, or simply a pile of roasted veggies. For a true restaurant-style feel, serve alongside pickled cucumbers or a creamy potato salad—every bite is pure bliss next to that signature Bang Bang flavor!

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your plating: pile the tenders onto a platter with toothpicks for a perfect party appetizer, stuff them in slider buns with lettuce and extra sauce for crowd-pleasing sandwiches, or lay them atop a crisp, fresh salad to add protein and pizzazz. The possibilities are endless for showcasing Easy Bang Bang Chicken in style!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Bang Bang Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep that legendary crispiness, store the chicken and sauce separately if possible, and only sauce the tenders just before serving.

Freezing

You, or your future self, will thank you for prepping a batch ahead! Freeze the fried but unsauced chicken tenders on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months—simply thaw and reheat when the craving strikes.

Reheating

To regain that crunchy exterior, reheat your Easy Bang Bang Chicken in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until hot and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to soften the coating. Sauce the chicken once it’s hot for fresh-from-the-fryer flavor.

FAQs

Can I bake Easy Bang Bang Chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely! Arrange your breaded chicken tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, mist with cooking spray, and bake at 425°F (218°C) for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll still get delicious crispness with less oil.

Is there a lighter version of Bang Bang sauce?

Yes! Substitute Greek yogurt or light mayo for some or all of the mayonnaise to lighten the sauce while keeping it creamy and tangy.

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenderloins?

Definitely—just cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips. The results will be every bit as tasty and juicy, and you can adjust the strip size to your liking.

What’s the best oil for frying this chicken?

Go for a neutral, high-smoke-point oil like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. These ensure light, crispy, and evenly fried chicken every time.

How spicy is Easy Bang Bang Chicken?

It’s just spicy enough to keep things interesting, but you’re in control! Adjust the amount of Sriracha in both the sauce and batter to suit your taste—from mild and sweet to fiery hot.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s a guaranteed hit, you can’t go wrong with Easy Bang Bang Chicken. Each crispy, saucy bite is packed with bold flavor and fun. So grab those ingredients and give it a try—your kitchen is about to become everyone’s favorite spot for this craveable dish!

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