Description
This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is a game-changer! Juicy, tender chicken is coated in a crispy panko crust, then drizzled with a sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce for an explosion of flavor. Whether deep-fried, air-fried, or oven-baked, this dish is perfect as an appetizer, main course, or even in tacos.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Canola oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
For Garnish & Serving:
- Chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
- Taste and adjust the spice level if needed.
- Cover and set aside while preparing the chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, flour, cornstarch, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to form a smooth batter.
- Add the chicken tenderloins and coat well.
- Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to help the batter stick.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Spread panko breadcrumbs on a plate.
- Remove each chicken tenderloin from the batter, allowing excess to drip off.
- Roll the chicken in panko, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere.
- Set aside on a tray before frying.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat (365°F/185°C).
- Fry the chicken in batches, 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Arrange the crispy chicken on a plate.
- Drizzle with Bang Bang sauce or serve it on the side.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
- Enjoy it with rice, fries, or inside tacos!
Notes
Healthier Alternatives:
- Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven-Baked: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Spice Level: Adjust Sriracha & cayenne to control heat.
Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in an oven or air fryer for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Deep-Fried,
- Cuisine: American, Asian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 24g
Keywords: Bang Bang Chicken, crispy chicken recipe, spicy fried chicken, homemade Bang Bang sauce, best chicken appetizer