Introduction to Bang Bang Chicken
What is Bang Bang Chicken and why is it popular?
Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that has captured the hearts—and taste buds—of many around the world. Originating from Asian cuisine, specifically inspired by Chinese flavors, this dish combines crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces with a creamy, spicy sauce that keeps you coming back for more. What makes it so irresistible? The marriage of textures—crunchy panko breadcrumbs enveloping tender chicken, all drizzled in a velvety sauce that packs a flavorful punch.
Its popularity stems not only from its fantastic taste but also from its versatility. Enjoy it as an appetizer, main course, or even in a wrap. Additionally, it's extremely easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for young professionals looking to impress dinner guests or simply enjoy a gourmet meal at home after a long workday. Many home cooks find themselves gravitating towards Bang Bang Chicken for gatherings, date nights, and even casual family dinners.
For those interested in adding spice to their culinary repertoire, this dish is an excellent starting point. If you’d like to explore more about the origins of Asian-inspired dishes like this one, check out Serious Eats for a deeper dive into the flavors that make them so special.
Ready to whip up your own Bang Bang Chicken? Let's get started with the recipe!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken
Essential ingredients for a tasty Bang Bang Chicken
To whip up a delightful Bang Bang Chicken that bursts with flavor, you'll need a straightforward set of essential ingredients:
- ½ cup mayonnaise: This provides a creamy base for your sauce.
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce: Adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
- 5 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce: Totaling four teaspoons in the sauce and one for the coating, this is key for that spicy kick!
- 2 large eggs: To help your chicken pieces stick to the coatings.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This helps the egg wash adhere better.
- 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs: For that ultra-crispy texture.
- 1 ¾ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: The star of the show!
- 1 cup neutral oil: For frying that perfectly crispy chicken.
These ingredients blend perfectly to create a scrumptious dish that you'll want to make again and again.
Optional ingredients for customization
Want to put your own spin on this dish? Here are some optional ingredients you might consider:
- Thinly sliced scallions: They add a fresh, crunchy garnish.
- Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of these can add a hint of nuttiness.
- Chopped cilantro: A great way to introduce an herbaceous flavor!
Don’t hesitate to experiment! A personal touch can elevate your Bang Bang Chicken into a unique masterpiece. For more ingredient ideas and variations, check out some resources like Serious Eats or Food Network.
Preparing Bang Bang Chicken
Bang Bang Chicken is an exciting dish that’s bursting with flavor and incredibly fun to make. As we walk through the steps, take your time and enjoy the process of creating this delicious meal!
Make the Bang Bang sauce
The foundation of any great Bang Bang Chicken is the sauce. Start by mixing together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, and 4 teaspoons of Sriracha hot sauce in a large bowl. This combination is where the magic happens, delivering a creamy yet spicy kick. Set aside half of this mixture in a small bowl for serving later—trust me, you’ll want that extra on the side!
Prepare the chicken
Next, let’s focus on the star of the show—the chicken. You’ll need 1 ¾ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces. Season them with ¾ teaspoon kosher salt to enhance their flavor. It’s amazing how a little seasoning can elevate your dish!
Coat the chicken in the egg mixture
In a medium shallow bowl (or pie plate), whisk together 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of Sriracha. This egg mixture is crucial; it helps the chicken adhere to the breadcrumbs later on. Get your hands ready—this can be a bit messy, but that’s part of the fun!
Coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs
Now, let’s add the crunch! In another shallow dish, combine 2 ½ cups of panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Take a few pieces of chicken, dip them into the egg mixture first, ensuring they’re well-coated, and then transfer them to the panko mixture. Press down gently as you coat them to ensure they’re fully covered. Lay the coated pieces on a rimmed baking sheet, ready for frying.
Fry the chicken until golden brown
Heat 1 cup of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want to aim for about 350°F—this is the perfect temperature for frying! Fry the chicken in batches; about eight pieces at a time is ideal. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Toss the chicken in the sauce
Finally, it’s time for the best part—tossing that beautifully fried chicken in your prepared Bang Bang sauce! Gently mix until the chicken is thoroughly coated. For a decorative touch (and extra flavor), garnish with thinly sliced scallions if desired. Serve immediately with the remaining sauce on the side for your guests to enjoy!
Now that you’ve got the full scoop on preparing Bang Bang Chicken, grab your ingredients and get cooking. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress and might just become your new favorite!
For expert tips on chicken preparation, check out this comprehensive guide.
Variations on Bang Bang Chicken
Bang Bang Chicken with a Twist: Spicy Mango
Looking for a fruity spin on the classic? Try adding spicy mango! Simply blend ripe mango with a splash of lime juice and a bit more Sriracha to elevate your sauce. The sweet and spicy mix complements the crispy chicken perfectly, adding a refreshing touch. Imagine the vibrant colors and flavors on your plate! For a flavorful enhancement, consider topping it off with diced fresh mango for added texture.
Healthier Baked Bang Bang Chicken
If you prefer a lighter version, you can swap frying for baking. Brush your coated chicken pieces with a bit of olive oil and bake them at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes until golden and crispy. This method cuts down on fat while still delivering that satisfying crunch. Pair it with a side of mixed greens to keep your meal balanced and healthy.
Vegetarian/Vegan Alternatives for Bang Bang Chicken
Don’t worry, veggie lovers! You can still enjoy the Bang Bang experience by using tofu or tempeh. Marinate them in the same sauce, then coat with panko for that delightful crunch. Alternatively, jackfruit is an excellent meat substitute that soaks up flavors beautifully. These options are not only delicious but also showcase the versatility of Bang Bang dishes. For more cooking tips, check out this guide on cooking with tofu.
Experimenting with these variations not only keeps your meals exciting but also ensures that everyone at the table will find something they love!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Bang Bang Chicken
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Crunch
To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken has that irresistible crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular bread crumbs. They create a lighter, crispier coating. For best results, double-dip the chicken: coat it in the egg mixture, then the panko, and repeat. Fry in hot oil (around 350°F) for a golden finish!
How to Adjust Spice Levels
If you're sensitive to heat, start with a smaller amount of Sriracha and gradually add more to your sauce. Sweet chili sauce balances the heat, so you can always add extra if needed. Remember, you can keep sriracha aside for those who prefer more heat at the table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
For leftovers, store your Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F until warmed through—this helps retain the crunch rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy. Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken later without losing that crunch!
Bang Bang Chicken
Equipment
- large bowl
- medium shallow bowl
- pie plate
- Skillet
- Rimmed baking sheet
- wire rack
Ingredients
Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 5 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce divided
Chicken Coating
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 ¾ teaspoons kosher salt divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ¾ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup neutral oil such as vegetable or canola
Garnish
- thinly sliced scallions for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Stir ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, and 4 teaspoons of the Sriracha together in a large bowl. Transfer half of the sauce to a small bowl for serving.
- Whisk the remaining 1 teaspoon Sriracha, 2 large eggs, and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour together in a medium shallow bowl or pie plate. Stir 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder together in a second shallow bowl or pie plate.
- Season 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast pieces with the remaining ¾ teaspoon kosher salt. Working with a few pieces at a time, add the chicken to the egg mixture, turn to coat, then transfer to the panko mixture. Gently press and flip the chicken into the panko mixture until completely coated. Place on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer.
Cooking
- Heat 1 cup neutral oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium heat until 350°F. Line a second baking sheet with a wire rack and/or paper towels. Fry about 8 pieces of chicken at a time: Add to the hot oil and fry, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and golden-brown all over, 3 to 5 minutes total. Transfer to the rack or paper towels.
- Transfer the chicken to the large bowl of sauce and toss until coated. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions if using. Serve with the remaining sauce drizzled on the top or on the side for dipping.
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