Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy, golden-fried chicken dish coated in a creamy, sweet, and slightly spicy Bang Bang sauce. Inspired by Sichuan flavors but made popular in Western kitchens, this recipe delivers that iconic restaurant-style crunch with a homemade touch. Serve it as an appetizer, a party snack, or a main dish—it’s always a hit!
1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon Sriracha
2 tablespoons honey
1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
1 cup buttermilk
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Sriracha
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
In a small bowl, mix mayo, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
Whisk until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
In a medium bowl, whisk buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (optional).
Add chicken tenderloins, ensuring they are fully coated.
Marinate for 10 minutes.
Place panko breadcrumbs on a plate or shallow dish.
Remove each tender from the marinade and coat evenly in panko, pressing to help it stick.
Set aside on a clean plate.
Heat canola oil in a skillet to 365°F (185°C).
Fry chicken in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Make sure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Place warm chicken in a bowl and toss with the Bang Bang sauce until fully coated.
Garnish with chopped parsley.
Serve immediately.
for 10–12 minutes (spray with oil for extra crispiness).
Adjust the heat: add more Sriracha or a pinch of cayenne for extra spice.
Want a thicker crust? Double coat by dipping in marinade and panko twice.
You can prepare the sauce ahead—it keeps well for 3–4 days in the fridge.