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bang bang chicken

Bang Bang Chicken recipe

Jada Parker
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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine American, Asian Fusion
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

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.
Keyword Bang Bang Chicken, best chicken appetizer, Crispy Chicken Recipe, homemade Bang Bang sauce, spicy fried chicken