This Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a fun dish that’s packed with flavor! Crunchy chicken pieces are coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that makes your taste buds dance with joy.
Who doesn’t love crispy chicken? I enjoy serving it with rice or salad for a tasty meal. It’s quick to make, so I can whip it up anytime I’m craving something delicious! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless skinless breasts for a lean option, but thighs add more flavor and juiciness. You could also use tofu for a vegetarian version!
Flour & Cornstarch: This combination helps achieve that crispy texture. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend can work well instead of regular flour.
Mayonnaise: For the sauce, any creamy base works. Greek yogurt or avocado can replace mayo if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is key for that sweet kick. If you can’t find it, a mix of ketchup and a bit of sugar with red pepper flakes can substitute.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Crispy?
The secret to crispy chicken lies in the coating process and frying technique. Ensure the chicken pieces are dry before coating; this helps the flour stick better. Here’s a simple guide:
- Use the two-bowl method: One for the egg wash and one for the dry mix. This keeps things tidy and ensures even coating.
- Heat the oil to the right temperature. A sprinkle of flour should sizzle if it’s hot enough.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Frying in batches allows the chicken to crisp up nicely.
- Let the fried chicken drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve that delightful crunch that everyone loves! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp sriracha or another hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice (optional, for tanginess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, followed by 15-20 minutes frying the chicken. The sauce comes together quickly in just 5 minutes. It’s a relatively quick and satisfying dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Ensure they’re dry by patting them with paper towels; this helps the coating stick better.
2. Make the Dry Coating Mix:
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will be your crispy coating!
3. Prepare the Wet Coating:
In another bowl, beat the eggs until they’re well mixed. This egg wash will help the dry coating adhere to the chicken pieces.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and first dip it into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully covered. Next, dredge it in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks nicely.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or frying pan, pour in enough vegetable oil to fully submerge the chicken pieces. Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C). Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil’s temperature.
6. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches. Cook each batch for about 4-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels.
7. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and rice vinegar or lime juice (if using). Mix well until smooth and creamy, adjusting the spice level to your preference.
8. Combine:
Place the fried chicken in a large bowl. Pour the bang bang sauce over the chicken pieces and toss gently to coat them evenly in the sauce.
9. Serve:
Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if you like! Serve immediately, either on its own, with rice, or tucked into wraps for a delicious meal!
Enjoy your Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cutting it into pieces. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a better coating.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Bang Bang Sauce?
If you’re looking to swap out mayonnaise, try using Greek yogurt or avocado for a healthier alternative. Both will add creaminess while offering different flavor profiles.
How Should I Store Leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven or skillet to maintain its crispiness, or use a microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bang bang sauce up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and mix it into the fried chicken when you’re ready to serve.
