Bang Bang Chicken: The Ultimate Guide to Making This Crispy, Saucy Favorite at Home

Bang Bang Chicken has quickly become one of the most beloved comfort-food recipes in modern home kitchens. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a creamy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce, this dish hits all the right notes for anyone who loves bold flavor and satisfying texture. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade meal, Bang Bang Chicken delivers every time.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Bang Bang Chicken—from its flavor profile and ingredient choices to expert cooking tips, variations, serving ideas, storage instructions, and more. By the end, you’ll have complete confidence to create restaurant-quality Bang Bang Chicken in your own kitchen.

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What Is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy fried chicken dish tossed in a rich sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha. The result is a perfect balance of:

• Creamy

• Sweet

• Savory

• Slightly spicy

The name “Bang Bang Chicken” is often associated with bold flavor that “pops” on your palate. While inspired by Asian-style flavor combinations, this version is adapted for Western kitchens and uses easily accessible ingredients.

It’s commonly served as:

• A party appetizer

• A game-day snack

• A main dish over rice or noodles

• A protein topping for salads or wraps

No matter how you serve it, Bang Bang Chicken is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

There are countless chicken recipes out there, but Bang Bang Chicken stands out for several reasons:

1. Big Flavor, Simple Ingredients
   Everything you need is available at most grocery stores.

2. Perfect Texture
   The combination of flour, cornstarch, and panko creates an ultra-crispy coating.

3. Versatile
   Works as an appetizer, main course, or meal prep option.

4. Customizable Heat Level
   You control how spicy it gets.

5. Better Than Takeout
   Fresher, crispier, and made exactly to your taste.

Once you try this recipe, Bang Bang Chicken may become a regular in your dinner rotation.

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Bang Bang Chicken Time Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Cool Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

• Servings: 12 crispy chicken tenders

• Calories: ~350 kcal per serving

This makes Bang Bang Chicken perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

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Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce

• 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins

• 1 cup buttermilk

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornstarch

• 1 large egg

• 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• 2 cups plain panko breadcrumbs

• Canola oil, for frying

• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Each ingredient plays a specific role in achieving the perfect Bang Bang Chicken texture and flavor.

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Understanding the Key Ingredients

Chicken Tenderloins

Tenderloins are naturally juicy and cook quickly, making them ideal for frying. You can also use chicken breast cut into strips.

Buttermilk

Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick.

Cornstarch + Flour

This combination creates a light but crunchy crust.

Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko adds extra crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs.

Sweet Chili Sauce

Provides sweetness and mild heat.

Sriracha

Adds a spicy kick. Adjust to taste.

Honey

Balances spice with natural sweetness.

Mayonnaise

Creates the creamy base for the sauce.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, combine:

• Mayonnaise

• Sweet chili sauce

• Sriracha

• Honey

Whisk until smooth. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the chicken.

2. Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Buttermilk

• Flour

• Cornstarch

• Egg

• Sriracha

• Garlic powder

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Cayenne (if using)

Add chicken tenderloins and toss to coat. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

3. Coat the Chicken

Place panko breadcrumbs on a plate.
Remove chicken from marinade and coat each piece thoroughly, pressing gently so breadcrumbs adhere.

4. Fry the Chicken

Heat canola oil in a deep skillet to about 365°F (185°C).
Fry chicken in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Drain and Toss

Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate.
While still warm, toss chicken with Bang Bang Sauce until evenly coated.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

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Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

• Double Dip for Extra Crunch: Dip chicken back into marinade, then panko again.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature.

• Use a Thermometer: Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

• Serve Sauce on the Side: Keeps chicken extra crispy.

• Adjust Heat: Add more or less Sriracha based on preference.

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Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Option

If you want a lighter version:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Arrange breaded chicken in a single layer.

3. Spray lightly with oil.

4. Cook 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

The result is still crispy and delicious.

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Oven-Baked Bang Bang Chicken

Another healthier alternative:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet.

3. Spray with oil.

4. Bake 18–22 minutes, flipping once.

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Serving Ideas

Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with:

• Steamed jasmine rice

• Fried rice

• Lo mein noodles

• Coleslaw

• Roasted vegetables

• Simple green salad

• Inside tacos or wraps

You can even chop it and use it as a topping for loaded fries or nachos.

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Bang Bang Chicken for Parties

Bang Bang Chicken is ideal for entertaining:

• Serve as bite-sized pieces with toothpicks

• Keep warm in a slow cooker (sauce separate)

• Offer extra sauce for dipping

Guests always come back for seconds.

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Meal Prep and Storage

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze breaded, uncooked chicken for up to 2 months. Fry or air fry straight from frozen.

Reheating

Reheat in oven or air fryer for best crispiness.

Print

Nutrition (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal

• Protein: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fat: 18g

• Saturated Fat: 4g

• Sodium: 620mg

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Variations of Bang Bang Chicken

Spicy Bang Bang Chicken

Double the Sriracha and add extra cayenne.

Honey Garlic Bang Bang Chicken

Add minced garlic and extra honey to sauce.

Korean-Inspired Bang Bang Chicken

Mix in gochujang for deeper heat.

Gluten-Free Bang Bang Chicken

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping marinade time

• Using cold oil

• Overcrowding pan

• Adding sauce too early (chicken becomes soggy)

Avoid these and your Bang Bang Chicken will turn out perfect.

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Why Bang Bang Chicken Is So Popular

• Bold flavors

• Crunchy texture

• Easy to customize

• Works for any occasion

It’s comfort food with a modern twist.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, cut into strips.

Can I make sauce ahead?
Yes, up to 5 days in fridge.

Is Bang Bang Chicken very spicy?
Mild to medium, adjustable.

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Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is the ultimate combination of crispy, creamy, sweet, and spicy. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions. With simple ingredients, flexible cooking methods, and endless customization options, this dish deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection.

Once you try this homemade Bang Bang Chicken, you’ll never look at takeout the same way again. Make a batch, share with loved ones, and enjoy every crunchy, saucy bite.