There’s a certain joy that comes from transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary in the kitchen. When I first tried making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, I was on a quest for a dish that could spark excitement at dinner time and surprise my taste buds. With its golden, crunchy exterior and a creamy, zesty sauce that packs a punch, this recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home.
Picture this: juicy chicken pieces marinated in flavor-rich buttermilk, then coated in a perfectly seasoned crispy shell. Just the thought of that irresistible crunch has me longing to whip up a batch. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or simply treat yourself to an amazing meal, this Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is incredibly versatile, making it the star of any occasion.
Join me as we bring together bold flavors and delightful textures that will make your kitchen feel like a culinary playground. Trust me—you won’t want to miss this delicious adventure!
Why is Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken a Must-Try?
Irresistible Crispiness: This recipe delivers a crunchy, golden exterior that’s simply addictive.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and zesty sriracha creates a bold flavor profile that dances on your palate.
Quick Prep Time: With easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have this dish ready in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights!
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, toss it in a wrap, or serve it over rice for a delicious dinner; the possibilities are endless.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or having a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
For a delightful pairing suggestion, serve it with steamed rice or a fresh salad that complements the rich flavors of the sauce.
Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken Ingredients
• Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and maximum flavor.
- Buttermilk – Acts as a tenderizing marinade; substitute with regular milk mixed with vinegar if needed.
For the Coating
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates that essential crispy coating; feel free to use gluten-free flour for a dietary alternative.
- Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh garlic can be a delightful substitute if you prefer.
- Onion Powder – Enhances overall flavor; optional or swap with finely chopped fresh onion if desired.
- Paprika – Provides both color and flavor; consider smoked paprika for an extra layer of taste.
- Salt – Essential for flavor; adjust to your preference.
- Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat; increase or decrease based on spice preference.
- Cayenne Pepper – Optional for an additional kick; adjust to taste for your desired heat level.
- Oil for Frying – Vegetable or canola oil is recommended for frying the chicken to perfection.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base for the sauce; use light mayo for a lower-calorie version if you like.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Brings sweetness and zest; it’s irreplaceable, but similar sauces can be used in a pinch.
- Sriracha – Offers that perfect spicy kick; adjust according to your heat tolerance.
- Rice Vinegar – Adds tanginess to balance the sauce; can substitute with apple cider or white vinegar if necessary.
- Honey – Balances out the flavors; optional based on sweetness preference.
With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create an amazing Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe that will tantalize your taste buds!
How to Make Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken
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Marinate Chicken: Start by soaking the bite-sized chicken pieces in buttermilk. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to achieve maximum tenderness and flavor.
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Prepare Coating: In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
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Coat Chicken: Once marinated, remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the flour mixture. Be sure to shake off any excess flour to avoid clumping.
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Heat Oil: In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Using a thermometer ensures the right temperature for that perfect crispiness.
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Fry Chicken: Carefully fry the coated chicken pieces in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey until the sauce is smooth and well-combined.
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Toss Chicken in Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the hot, crispy chicken with the prepared Bang Bang sauce. Make sure every piece gets a generous coat of that creamy goodness.
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Serve: Serve your Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken warm, garnished with options like sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor.
Optional: Serve with a side of steamed rice or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken
- Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F for crispy results. Use a thermometer to avoid soggy chicken.
- Batch Frying: Fry chicken in small batches to maintain oil temperature, which prevents steaming and keeps it wonderfully crispy.
- Marination Time: Don’t rush the marination! Soaking the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes guarantees tenderness and flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize your sauce by adjusting the sriracha and cayenne to match your heat tolerance; balance flavors to suit your palate.
- Coating Technique: Shake off excess flour to avoid clumping; this ensures an even and crunchy coating on your chicken pieces.
- Leftover Storage: Store any leftover Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container to maintain its crunch—enjoy it within two days!
Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists on the classic recipe and discover new flavors that make your taste buds sing!
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Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, richer flavor that adds depth to every bite. Thighs are more forgiving and stay tender even if slightly overcooked.
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Baked Version: Bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of frying for a healthier alternative. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for added crunch!
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Spicy Twist: Increase the amount of sriracha or add minced fresh jalapeños for an extra kick in both the coating and sauce. This will set your taste buds ablaze!
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Mango Salsa: Top the finished dish with a fresh mango salsa for a fruity, tangy complement that balances the spiciness perfectly. Combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice to create this zesty topping.
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Asian-Inspired Sauce: Experiment with a teriyaki or hoisin sauce instead of the traditional Bang Bang sauce for a different flavor profile. This sweet and savory twist will surprise and delight!
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Coconut Coating: Add shredded coconut to the flour mixture for a tropical flair that brings a crunchy texture and hints of sweetness when fried. It’s an unexpected yet delicious combination!
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Cauliflower Substitute: For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with cauliflower florets. Follow the same preparation steps and bake or fry for a delightful veggie twist that everyone will love.
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Zesty Lemon Sauce: Incorporate lemon zest and juice into the Bang Bang sauce for a bright and zesty flavor that enhances the overall taste. This adds a refreshing element to the creamy sauce base.
Each variation sparks an adventure in the kitchen, ensuring that your Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken remains a beloved go-to recipe!
What to Serve with Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement this crispy, spicy dish perfectly.
- Steamed Rice: A fluffy bed of steamed jasmine rice soaks up the creamy sauce, balancing spice with subtle tenderness.
- Fresh Green Salad: Crisp greens with a zesty vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the indulgent chicken, enhancing overall meal harmony.
- Tortilla Wraps: Wraps add a fun twist, allowing you to create crispy chicken tacos that are perfect for casual gatherings or a quick lunch.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of the fries contrasts beautifully with the spicy sauce, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures in each bite.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw brings a creamy, cool element that pairs wonderfully with the heat of the Bang Bang chicken.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread offers the perfect side for scooping up the delicious sauce, making for one satisfying meal experience.
Enjoy a symphony of textures and flavors with these perfect accompaniments!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days, ensuring the coating stays crisp. Avoid covering with plastic wrap directly on the chicken to preserve texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This helps maintain crispiness.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake directly from the fridge or freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method revives the crispy coating beautifully.
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results with texture and flavor, keeping your Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep, helping you save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance to ensure maximum tenderness. Additionally, the coating can be prepared ahead of time—mix your dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the coating and fry it as directed. To maintain the crispy texture, avoid storing the fried chicken in a covered container. Instead, let it cool completely and then refrigerate it in a single layer to keep it crispy until it’s time to toss with the sauce and serve!
Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for fresh chicken breasts that are free of dark spots and have a firm texture. Look for meat that is pink and moist, avoiding any packages that appear slimy or have an unpleasant smell. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be a juicier alternative; just ensure they’re also cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To help maintain the crunchiness of the coating, avoid directly covering the chicken with plastic wrap. Instead, place a paper towel in between to absorb moisture, allowing for delicious leftovers!
Can I freeze Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Of course! To freeze, first arrange the cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch. Once frozen solid (about 2-3 hours), transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. This method helps maintain that crispy texture while allowing you to enjoy your flavorful dish for up to 3 months!
To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.
How can I ensure my chicken is crispy when frying?
Very! Ensuring crispy chicken comes down to a few key steps. First, make sure your oil reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy, as the right temperature is crucial for achieving that golden crispiness. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent steaming. Shake off excess flour when coating the chicken; this prevents clumping and allows for an even, crunchy coating.
Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
Absolutely! For those with dietary restrictions, you can replace buttermilk with a dairy-free milk mixed with vinegar for a similar tenderizing effect. Gluten-free flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for those avoiding gluten. When it comes to the Bang Bang sauce, light mayonnaise is a great option for lower calories; just ensure all other ingredients are suitable for your dietary needs.
Feel free to adjust the spice level with less sriracha or cayenne if you have small children or a more sensitive palate!
Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe You’ll Crave Again!
Equipment
- Deep skillet or fryer
- Mixing Bowls
- Thermometer
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken Breasts Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- 1 cup Buttermilk Acts as a tenderizing marinade.
For the Coating
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Feel free to use gluten-free flour.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be substituted.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Optional or swap with fresh onion.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Consider smoked paprika for flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to your preference.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Optional for extra heat.
- Oil for Frying Vegetable or canola oil recommended.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Use light mayo for lower calories.
- 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce Brings sweetness and zest.
- 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha Adjust according to heat tolerance.
- 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar Can substitute with other vinegar.
- 1 tablespoon Honey Optional based on sweetness preference.
Instructions
How to Make Crispy Tangy Bang Bang Chicken
- Marinate Chicken: Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Coating: Combine all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge marinated chicken in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Heat Oil: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
- Fry Chicken: Fry chicken pieces for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Prepare Sauce: Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey until smooth.
- Toss Chicken in Sauce: Gently toss fried chicken with Bang Bang sauce.
- Serve: Serve warm, garnished with optional toppings.
Notes
Nutrition
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