Bang Bang Chicken is a tantalizing dish that combines succulent chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce, offering an explosion of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a weeknight meal at home, this dish provides a delightful balance of heat and creaminess that appeals to all palates. The best part is how simple it is to prepare! With just a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create an impressive entrée that will leave everyone craving more. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also allows you to customize the spice level according to your preference. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Bang Bang Chicken from scratch, including tips on ingredient selection, preparation methods, and serving suggestions. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a crispy coating when frying the chicken
- Vegetable Oil: Use oil with a high smoke point for frying; canola or peanut oil work well
For the Sauce:
- Sriracha Sauce: This provides the signature kick; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance
- Mayonnaise: It gives the sauce its creamy texture; using full-fat mayonnaise works best for flavor
- Honey: Adds sweetness to balance out the heat of the Sriracha
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Looking for more? You can’t miss our delicious recipe!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients together. This makes it easier to follow through without interruptions.
Step 2: Cut the Chicken
Slice the boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Dredge in Flour
In a shallow bowl, add flour and season it lightly with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour until fully coated.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Heat until shimmering but not smoking.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place coated chicken pieces in hot oil. Fry until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes), turning occasionally for even cooking.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, mayonnaise, and honey until smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the chicken in spices or soy sauce overnight
Here’s another easy and tasty option for your next meal!
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken
This Bang Bang Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking, which enhances flavor. Store marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to three months. Make sure to label containers with dates for easy reference.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Alternatively, use a microwave on medium power for about two minutes, checking frequently.
Don’t just stop at this dish—explore our other tasty!
Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken
Avoid Overcooking the Chicken
When preparing Bang Bang Chicken, overcooking is a common mistake that can ruin the dish. Cooking the chicken for too long results in dry, tough meat that lacks flavor. To prevent this, focus on cooking the chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes; this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, enhancing its tenderness and taste. Remember, properly cooked chicken not only tastes better but also holds up well in the sauce.
Don’t Skip Marinating
Marinating is crucial for achieving that authentic Bang Bang Chicken flavor. Skipping this step can lead to bland chicken that fails to capture the essence of the dish. A good marinade typically includes ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness. Aim to marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, though longer is better if time allows. This process breaks down proteins and infuses the meat with flavor, making each bite deliciously rich. Always remember—great flavors come from proper marination!
Choosing the Right Sauce Consistency
A common error when making Bang Bang Chicken is getting the sauce consistency wrong. If your sauce is too thick, it can overwhelm the chicken; too thin, and it may not cling properly. The ideal sauce should be creamy yet pourable. To achieve this balance, mix mayonnaise with sweet chili sauce and adjust with a splash of lime juice or water as needed. A well-balanced sauce enhances the dish’s appeal without overpowering it. Taste as you go to ensure you achieve that perfect blend.
Presentation Matters
Even though taste is paramount in any recipe, presentation plays a significant role in how we enjoy food—especially with dishes like Bang Bang Chicken. Failing to present your dish attractively can diminish its appeal. Aim to plate your chicken beautifully by arranging it on a vibrant bed of greens or rice and drizzling some extra sauce on top. Garnishing with sesame seeds or chopped scallions adds color and texture while elevating your dish visually. A well-presented meal makes all the difference in impressing your guests.
FAQs
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a popular Asian-inspired dish known for its spicy and creamy flavors. Typically made with fried or grilled chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, it combines elements of heat from chili paste and sweetness from honey or sugar. This dish is often served over rice or as an appetizer at gatherings due to its delightful taste and appealing presentation. The name comes from the “bang bang” effect of flavor bursts you experience when eating this delicious meal.
How can I make my Bang Bang Chicken healthier?
To create a healthier version of Bang Bang Chicken, consider baking or grilling instead of frying your chicken for fewer calories and less fat. You can also substitute regular mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for added protein and reduced fat content without sacrificing creaminess. Using fresh vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli as part of your dish boosts nutrition and adds crunch while retaining flavor balance in your meal.
Can I prepare Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time is convenient for busy schedules or entertaining guests. You can marinate the chicken several hours in advance or even overnight for maximum flavor absorption. When ready to serve, simply cook it quickly before tossing it with your prepared sauce. For best results, store any leftover sauce separately until serving; this keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess.
What side dishes go well with Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its bold flavors. Consider serving it alongside steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce effectively. Fresh salads or sautéed vegetables provide contrast in texture while maintaining freshness on your plate. Additionally, crispy spring rolls make an excellent appetizer option that enhances your dining experience.
Want more crowd-pleasing dishes? Check out this recipe!
Conclusion for Bang Bang Chicken
In summary, creating delicious Bang Bang Chicken hinges on avoiding common pitfalls such as overcooking or neglecting marination techniques that enhance flavor profiles significantly. Striving for perfect sauce consistency ensures that each bite remains tantalizing without overpowering other elements present in this delightful dish. Remember to present your meal attractively because visual appeal contributes greatly to enjoyment! By keeping these tips in mind and incorporating healthy options where possible, you can enjoy a satisfying homemade version of this popular recipe anytime!
Bang Bang Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Bang Bang Chicken is a delectable dish that marries tender, juicy chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce, creating an unforgettable flavor experience. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, impressing guests without causing stress in the kitchen. With its delightful balance of heat from Sriracha and sweetness from honey, you can adjust the spice levels to cater to your taste preferences. Gather your ingredients, follow these straightforward steps, and serve up a satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1/2 cup Sriracha sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions
- Gather and prepare all ingredients.
- Cut chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized pieces.
- Dredge each piece in seasoned flour until fully coated.
- Heat enough vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry chicken pieces for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- In a bowl, whisk together Sriracha, mayonnaise, and honey to create the sauce.
- Serve hot, drizzling the sauce over the chicken.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and garlic for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Adjust the amount of Sriracha based on your preferred spice level.
This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg