In the vast universe of chicken dishes, few manage to strike the perfect balance between irresistible crunch and bold, mouthwatering flavor. Enter Crispy Bang Bang Chicken-a culinary marvel that delivers a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. This flavor-packed crunch sensation combines crispy, golden-brown chicken with a zesty, tangy sauce that awakens the palate and keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual eater looking to spice up your meal routine, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken promises an unforgettable experience that’s as exciting to the taste buds as it is satisfying to the soul. Dive in, and discover why this dish is making waves in kitchens and dining tables everywhere.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s an irresistible dance of textures and bold flavors that awaken your palate with every crunchy bite. Originating from a fusion of Asian-inspired spicy mayonnaise and sweet chili elements, this dish captures the essence of crispy comfort food elevated by a creamy, tangy sauce that’s both fiery and sweet.Whether you’re craving a snack, appetizer, or a main course, mastering this recipe guarantees a flavor-packed crunch sensation that will quickly become a family and friends’ favorite.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield
- Serves 4
Difficulty Level
- Easy to Medium
Ingredients
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- For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups)
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese Kewpie for creaminess)
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Garnishes:
- Chopped scallions
- toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
- For the Chicken:
Step by Step Guide to Perfectly Cooking Bang Bang Chicken at Home
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- Prepare the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the buttermilk until smooth.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the wet mixture, then dredge in the dry flour mixture, ensuring a full, even coat for maximum crispness.
- Heat the oil: In a deep, heavy-bottomed pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy-the right temperature prevents greasy, soggy chicken.
- Fry in batches: Carefully lower chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying 5-6 pieces at a time to avoid crowding. Fry for 4-5 minutes until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. Drain on a wire rack over paper towels to maintain crunch.
- Make the Bang Bang sauce: While frying, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Adjust spiciness by adding more Sriracha as preferred.
- Toss the chicken: Gently toss the hot,crispy chicken in the prepared sauce just before serving,ensuring each piece is generously coated without losing its crunch.
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Exploring the Bold and Tangy Bang Bang Sauce Flavor Profile
The secret to this dish’s addictive appeal lies in the harmonious balance of the bang bang sauce. Its rich, creamy base from mayonnaise is enlivened by the sweet heat of sweet chili sauce and the sharp tang of rice vinegar. the addition of honey rounds out the sauce with a mellow sweetness that tempers the fiery kick from Sriracha. This complex layering brings out the ultimate flavor-packed crunch sensation when paired with the delicately crispy chicken crust.
Chef’s Notes and Tips for Success
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- Double coating: For an ultra-crispy crust, consider repeating the wet and dry dredging step for a thicker batter.
- Oil temperature: Monitor the oil carefully; if it’s too hot, chicken browns too fast but stays raw inside; too cool, and it turns greasy.
- Alternative protein: Try the same method with shrimp or tofu for a delightful variation.
- Sauce make-ahead: The bang bang sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days, perfect for prepping in advance.
- Healthier option: Bake the coated chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes on a rack to reduce oil but still get a crispy exterior.
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pairing Suggestions and Serving Tips for a Complete Crunch Experience
Serve your bang bang chicken over fluffy jasmine rice or alongside crunchy Asian slaw tossed in a light sesame dressing to add freshness and balance. Garnish liberally with scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro for bursts of color and texture. For a family-style feast,pair this dish with steamed dumplings and a chilled cucumber salad.
For drinks, a crisp lager or a slightly sweet Riesling complements the bold sauce flavors beautifully. Offering a cooling yogurt dip on the side can also soothe palates craving a break from the heat.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
For more flavorful Asian-inspired crispy dishes, visit our Asian Crispy Delights collection. To learn about the origins of sweet chili sauce and its role in Southeast Asian cuisine, check out this detailed Britannica article.
Q&A
Q&A: Crispy Bang Bang Chicken – A flavor-Packed Crunch Sensation
Q1: What makes Bang Bang Chicken so special compared to other fried chicken dishes?
A1: Bang bang Chicken isn’t just about crispy chicken; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors! The chicken boasts a perfectly crunchy coating that snaps satisfyingly with every bite, paired with a bold, creamy sauce that dances on your tongue with a mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. It’s comfort food elevated-both exciting and familiar.
Q2: Where does the name “Bang Bang” come from?
A2: The name “Bang Bang” is said to echo the sound of wooden sticks used to tenderize the chicken in traditional recipes. Over time, it evolved to represent the explosive flavor and crunch that literally “bangs” in your mouth. It’s a playful way to describe a dish that’s as lively and dynamic as the name suggests.
Q3: What key ingredients define the crispy coating on Bang Bang Chicken?
A3: The secret to that unbeatable crunch lies in a carefully balanced batter or breading mix-usually combining cornstarch or rice flour with all-purpose flour for crispiness and lightness. Sometimes panko breadcrumbs add extra crunch. Seasonings like garlic powder,paprika,and a hint of cayenne bring subtle heat and complexity.
Q4: How is the iconic Bang Bang sauce made?
A4: The sauce is where the magic happens.It’s typically a creamy blend featuring mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, a splash of sriracha for heat, honey or sugar for sweetness, and lime juice or rice vinegar to give a refreshing zing. The result: a luscious, spicy-sweet glaze that clings perfectly to each crispy piece.
Q5: Can Bang Bang Chicken be made healthier without losing its crunch and flavor?
A5: Absolutely! Try air-frying instead of deep-frying for a lighter crunch, or bake the chicken with a well-seasoned, panko crust. Swapping heavy mayo in the sauce for Greek yogurt mixed with chili sauce can keep the creaminess while cutting calories. The key is to balance technique and ingredients without sacrificing that signature bang.
Q6: What are some creative ways to serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
A6: Bang Bang Chicken is versatile! Serve it atop a bed of fluffy jasmine rice for a hearty meal,toss it into fresh greens for a crunchy salad,or pile it into bao buns with pickled veggies for a street-food twist. Even shrimp and tofu can get the Bang Bang treatment-so don’t be afraid to experiment!
Q7: Why has Bang Bang Chicken become such a beloved dish worldwide?
A7: It hits all the right notes-comforting crunch meets exciting flavor, and it’s incredibly shareable. Whether you’re craving something spicy, sweet, tangy, or all three at once, Bang Bang Chicken delivers in a way that feels both indulgent and fresh. Its adaptability and addictive taste have made it a global sensation on casual menus everywhere.
Ready to dive into this crispy, creamy, flavor-packed crunch sensation? Bang Bang Chicken might just be your new favorite flavor explosion!
To Wrap It Up
Whether you’re craving a swift snack or a show-stopping appetizer, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken delivers a symphony of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist. The perfect marriage of crunchy, spicy, and sweet creates a culinary experience that awakens the palate with every bite. So next time you’re in the mood for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is sensational, give this crispy delight a place at your table-because sometimes, the crunch really is the star of the show.
