Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is a dish that excite the taste buds and leave you wanting more. With its crunchy exterior and a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce, this dish is a favorite for many. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even a party snack, it brings that restaurant-quality experience right into your kitchen. If you are ready to first gather the ingredients and then whip up this delight, keep reading because your taste adventure is about to commence!
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a popular dish that hails from Asian cuisine. It features chicken pieces that are coated in a crispy batter and deep-fried to perfection. The name “Bang Bang” comes from the irresistible sauce that accompanies it, which provides a spicy, sweet kick that’s just too good to resist.
Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
To bring this flavor to life, you need some essentials. Here’s everything you’ll require:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Oil for frying (enough to fill your frying pan about half an inch deep)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (you can use light mayo if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or any hot sauce you like (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey (this balances out the heat)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (this adds a bit of tang)
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these simple steps for a crispy treat.
Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the Chicken: Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This ensures quick cooking and makes them easier to eat.
- Season: Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder over the chicken. Toss to make sure every piece is coated well.
Set Up Your Breading Station
- Three Bowls: Grab three bowls. In the first, add flour. In the second, place the beaten eggs. In the third, add the panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat Your Chicken: Take a piece of chicken and dredge it in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it in the egg, letting the extra drip off. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. Repeat for all pieces.
Fry the Chicken
- Heat the Oil: In a wide frying pan, pour oil and heat it over medium-high heat. You can check if the oil is ready by carefully dropping a crumb of panko in; if it sizzles, it’s good to go.
- Fry: Add chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Once crispy, place the chicken on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust your spice levels if needed.
- Toss the Chicken: Once your chicken is perfectly crispy, place it in a large bowl and pour the sauce over it. Toss gently to coat every piece.
How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Now that your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is ready, it’s time to serve it up! Here are some ideas for making it look appealing:
- On a Platter: Arrange the chicken on a beautiful platter and drizzle some extra sauce on top.
- Garnish: Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
- With Sides: This chicken pairs well with steamed rice, pasta, or even salad. Serve some extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips for the Best Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Having the right technique can make a big difference in achieving that crispy exterior. Here are some handy tips:
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They are lighter and provide a much crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Don’t Rush the Frying: Fry the chicken in batches to achieve even cooking and prevent sogginess.
- Adjust the Spice: If you love heat, feel free to add more sriracha to your sauce, or even some red pepper flakes.
- Serve Immediately: For maximum crispiness, serve the chicken right after frying.
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard to believe!), here’s how to store them:
- Cool Completely: Allow leftover chicken to cool down before storing.
- Airtight Container: Place in an airtight container. This will help maintain as much crispiness as possible.
- Refrigerate: Store it in the fridge for no more than 3 days.
- Reheat: When ready to eat, reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore some crunch.
Variations of Bang Bang Chicken
Feel like switching it up? There are plenty of variations to try:
- Bang Bang Shrimp: Swap chicken for shrimp, following the same frying method.
- Crispy Bang Bang Cauliflower: For a vegetarian option, coat cauliflower florets in the same batter and fry.
- Bang Bang Salad: Toss the chicken over a bed of mixed greens with some cherry tomatoes and avocado.
Nutritional Benefits of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Although it’s a treat, there are still some nutritional benefits to your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken:
- Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can adjust the sauce to make it healthier. Considering Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise can be a lighter option.
Pairing Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken
The crispy goodness of Bang Bang Chicken can match well with several beverages:
- Craft Beer: The lightness of a pale ale can beautifully complement the spicy flavors.
- Soda: Sweet soda can balance the heat from the Bang Bang sauce.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea also works great with this dish.