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Crispy Bang Bang Chicken – Sweet, Spicy, Irresistibly Crunchy!

Bang Bang Chicken — even the name sounds exciting, doesn’t it? This crispy, tender, sweet and spicy chicken dish has exploded in popularity thanks to its signature creamy, fiery sauce and ultra-crunchy breaded coating. Whether served as an appetizer, over a bowl of rice, or tucked into lettuce wraps, this dish is a certified flavor bomb. Originally inspired by Thai and Chinese street food, Bang Bang Chicken is beloved for its fusion of Asian-style chili sauce, creamy mayonnaise, and just the right kick of Sriracha. But what really sets it apart? That unforgettable crunch. In this easy homemade recipe, we’ll show you exactly how to make crispy chicken tenders tossed in that famous Bang Bang Sauce — all with simple, everyday ingredients.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinate Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🥩 Viandes:
  • 1½ lbs chicken tenderloins boneless and skinless
🧄 Fruits et légumes:
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
🥚 Produits frais:
  • 1 egg large
🧂 Aides culinaires et épices:
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
🧴 Condiments:
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 4 tsp Sriracha
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
🧈 Produits laitiers:
  • 1 cup buttermilk
🫙 Huiles et vinaigres:
  • Canola oil for frying
🍞 Pains et viennoiseries:
  • 2 cups plain panko breadcrumbs
  • Pro Tip: Panko breadcrumbs are key to that crispy light texture. Don't substitute with regular breadcrumbs!

Equipment

  • Before diving in, here’s what you’ll need:
  • Mixing bowls (at least 3)
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Deep skillet, Dutch oven, or air fryer
  • Wire rack or paper towels (for draining)
  • Tongs or slotted spoon
  • Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
  2. In a bowl, mix 1 cup buttermilk, 1 egg, ½ tsp garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Add the chicken tenderloins to the bowl and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
  4. Step 2: Prep the Breading Station
  5. Set up 3 bowls:
  6. Flour mix: Combine ¾ cup flour, ½ cup cornstarch, ¼ tsp black pepper, ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper, and ½ tsp kosher salt.
  7. Egg wash: Beat 1 egg in a bowl with 1 tbsp water.
  8. Panko bowl: Add 2 cups panko breadcrumbs.
  9. Step 3: Bread the Chicken
  10. Remove chicken from the marinade. Working one at a time:
  11. Coat chicken in the flour mixture.
  12. Dip into the egg wash.
  13. Press into panko breadcrumbs to fully coat.
  14. Place breaded chicken on a tray or wire rack.
  15. Step 4: Fry the Chicken
  16. Heat canola oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C) — enough to submerge the chicken about halfway.
  17. Fry chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
  18. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels to drain.
  19. Air fryer method: Spray with oil and cook at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.
  20. Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
  21. In a bowl, whisk together:
  22. 1 cup mayonnaise
  23. ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
  24. 4 tsp Sriracha
  25. 2 tbsp honey
  26. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness as desired.
  27. Step 6: Toss or Drizzle
  28. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the fried chicken, or toss the chicken pieces directly in the sauce for full coating.
  29. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness and color.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Keep the sauce separate for best texture.
Reheating:
Oven or air fryer: 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
Avoid microwaving unless you don’t mind losing the crunch.
Pro Tip: Reheat uncovered to help retain crispiness.
🥄 Variations
Customize your Bang Bang Chicken with these delicious ideas:
Baked Version: Bake at 425°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway
Spicy Upgrade: Add extra Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce
Gluten-Free: Use rice flour and gluten-free panko
Keto Option: Swap flour/panko with crushed pork rinds and almond flour
Bang Bang Shrimp: Use the same recipe with raw shrimp instead of chicken
Wrap It Up: Use leftovers in a wrap with lettuce and cucumber
Rice Bowl Style: Serve over jasmine rice with veggies and sesame seeds
Bang Bang Tacos: Load into soft tortillas with slaw and lime crema
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I make Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Prep and bread the chicken in advance, then refrigerate and fry just before serving.
2. Is Bang Bang Chicken spicy?
It has a mild kick. Adjust Sriracha for more or less heat.
3. What’s the best oil for frying?
Canola or vegetable oil — both have high smoke points and neutral flavor.
4. Can I air fry instead of deep fry?
Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping once.
5. Do I need to marinate the chicken?
Marinating in buttermilk tenderizes and seasons the meat, but if you’re short on time, skip or reduce to 15 minutes.
6. Can I use regular breadcrumbs?
You can, but panko gives that ultra-crispy texture that defines Bang Bang Chicken.
7. Is there a healthier version?
Yes — bake or air-fry the chicken and use Greek yogurt in place of mayo in the sauce.
8. How do I know the chicken is cooked?
Use a thermometer. Internal temp should be 165°F.
9. What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
Try it with jasmine rice, garlic noodles, roasted broccoli, or a crisp salad.
10. Can I use chicken breasts or thighs?
Yes! Cut into strips or chunks and follow the same steps.
🏁 Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken is a show-stopping dish that brings the flavor big-time with its crunchy coating and bold, creamy sauce. Whether you fry it up for game day, serve it as a crowd-pleasing dinner, or use it in a creative wrap or bowl, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver crispy satisfaction every single time.
Plus, once you taste the homemade Bang Bang sauce — you’ll want to put it on everything. ❤️🔥