Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Get ready to make this irresistibly Crispy Bang Bang Chicken! Known for its crispy coating and creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, this recipe is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish. Simple to make and packed with flavor, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Crispy & Crunchy: The perfect texture, thanks to a panko coating that crisps up beautifully.
• Sweet and Spicy Sauce: This signature sauce balances a bit of heat with a touch of sweetness.
• Easy to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, so you can satisfy cravings quickly.

Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Chicken:
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
• Bang Bang Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp lime juice (optional, for extra zing)

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls: For marinating the chicken and preparing the coating.
• Frying pan or deep fryer: For frying the chicken to crispy perfection.
• Tongs: For flipping and removing chicken from hot oil.
• Whisk: To mix the bang bang sauce evenly.

How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with buttermilk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 1 hour in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

2. In one shallow bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
3. Remove the chicken from the marinade and coat each piece in flour, then dip in the buttermilk again, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy coating.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

4. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
5. Fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

6. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice (if using) until smooth.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

7. In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the crispy chicken with the bang bang sauce until each piece is coated.
8. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken over a bed of lettuce for a fun twist on a salad.
• It’s also perfect on a slider bun with a little lettuce and sauce for an incredible sandwich!
• Pair it with rice and steamed veggies for a balanced meal.

Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken

• For Extra Crispiness: Double dip the chicken in the buttermilk and panko breadcrumbs.
• Adjust the Spice: Add more or less sriracha based on your spice preference.
• Make it Lighter: Bake the coated chicken in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until warmed and crispy again. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs for a delicious gluten-free version.

Q2: What can I substitute for buttermilk?
A: You can use regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a buttermilk substitute.

Q3: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge until ready to use.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g

Enjoy the Crunch!

This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is the ultimate in comfort and flavor, with its golden coating and zingy, creamy sauce. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your kitchen triumphs!

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