This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a tasty treat that’s sure to please everyone! With its crunchy coating and a sweet, spicy sauce, every bite is a little party in your mouth!
I love how easy this recipe is to make. Just coat the chicken, fry it up, and toss it in the bang bang sauce. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or game day snack—everyone will want a piece! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work too! If you’re in a pinch, precooked chicken can be used, though it won’t be as crispy.
Cornstarch: This ingredient is what gives the chicken its amazing crispiness. If you need a substitute, try using potato starch or even a gluten-free flour blend.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes to sour it.
Sriracha: Adjust this based on your spice tolerance. If you want less heat, consider using a mild chili sauce or skip it altogether for a still delicious flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Extra Crispy?
The frying technique is key for beautifully crispy chicken! Make sure to coat the chicken well and heat the oil to the right temperature.
- Use a thermometer to check the oil is about 350°F (175°C). Too cold, and the chicken will absorb oil; too hot can burn it!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches to keep the temperature up, getting that lovely golden finish.
- Let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack. This keeps the bottom from getting soggy while cooling!
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional, for tang)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This beautiful Crispy Bang Bang Chicken will take you about 15 minutes for preparation and roughly 15 minutes for frying, making it a quick dinner option! Plus, you can enjoy it right away!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Coating:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, salt, and pepper until well combined. In a separate large bowl, mix the flour and cornstarch together. This will create a crunchy coating for your chicken!
2. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, dredge the chicken in the flour-cornstarch mixture. Press the chicken gently to get a nice, thick coating all around.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1–2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if you have one to get it just right!
4. Fry the Chicken:
Fry the chicken pieces in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes each side or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to let any excess oil drain.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is frying away, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a bowl. This sauce is the magic touch that makes everything incredible!
6. Toss the Chicken in Sauce:
Once all the chicken is cooked and drained, place the crispy pieces in a large bowl and drizzle the prepared bang bang sauce over them. Gently toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce, making sure every piece is covered!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy bang bang chicken immediately, garnished with sliced green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like. Dive in and enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!
Happy cooking! 🍗✨
FAQ for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier, chicken breasts also work well. You can even use tenders for bite-sized pieces, or try using shrimp or tofu for a great alternative.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking for extra heat, simply increase the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce. You can also add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the flour mixture for an additional kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes to help regain that crispy texture!
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The bang bang sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using, and it will still taste delicious!
