Quick & Easy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Get ready to make restaurant-quality food right in your kitchen with this irresistibly crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe.

You’ll love the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors combined with tender chicken pieces that stay crunchy even after tossing in sauce.

Better yet, this crowd-pleasing dish comes together faster than ordering takeout – ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the hassle.

First-time cooks will find the process straightforward, while seasoned chefs can tweak the heat level to their preference.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken

This Bang Bang Chicken delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Unlike complicated fried chicken recipes that require hours of prep, our version uses a smart buttermilk marinade that tenderizes the meat in just 10 minutes.

The cornstarch coating creates an airy, golden crust without feeling heavy. Meanwhile, the signature sauce blends creamy and tangy elements with just enough kick to keep things interesting.

Foolproof Cooking Method

Shallow frying instead of deep-frying makes this recipe less messy while delivering equally crispy results. Cooking in batches ensures each piece gets evenly golden without steaming.

By letting excess oil drain on a wire rack or paper towels, you maintain that satisfying crunch texture that makes every bite truly special. Looking for another hands-off protein dish? Try our effortless dump-and-bake chicken tzatziki when you need something equally delicious with less active cooking time.

Recipe

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Ingredients and Substitutions

Simple pantry staples transform into something extraordinary in this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Components

• 1 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
• 1 cup buttermilk – See Notes for easy substitute
• 1 1/4 cup cornstarch (or potato starch for crispier texture)
• 1 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil with high smoke point)

Sauce and Seasonings

• 1 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 green onion (finely chopped for garnish)
• 1/2 cup Japanese mayo alternative
• 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce
• 2 tbsp sriracha

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Follow these easy steps to create perfect crispy chicken every time. Work efficiently by prepping your sauce and dredging station before frying.

Step 1: Prep and Marinate Chicken

Dice chicken thighs into 1.5-inch pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Pour buttermilk over the chicken, stirring to coat all pieces thoroughly. Let the mixture sit for 10-12 minutes – this quick marinade tenderizes the meat while helping the coating adhere better during frying.

Step 2: Create Sauce and Dredge

While the chicken marinates, whisk together the Japanese mayo alternative, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a small bowl. Set aside. In another bowl, combine cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Drain excess buttermilk from chicken pieces, then dredge each piece in the cornstarch mixture until fully coated. Shake off any loose powder before frying.

Step 3: Fry to Crispy Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in 2-3 batches to avoid crowding, fry chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer cooked chicken to a wire rack or plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Place drained chicken in a large bowl and add your prepared sauce. Gently toss until all pieces are evenly coated. Sprinkle with chopped green onions for freshness and color contrast. Serve immediately while hot and crispy – the contrast between the crunchy exterior and tender chicken underneath will make this dish an instant favorite.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a candy thermometer to monitor oil temperature – aim for 350°F (175°C) before adding chicken
• Pat chicken dry before dredging if it seems too wet after marinating
• Want something creamier? Prepare our elegant chicken pillows with parmesan sauce as a sophisticated alternative
• Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness

Flavor Variations

• Extra Spicy: Double the sriracha and add 1 tsp chili flakes to the sauce
• Korean-Inspired: Swap sauce ingredients for gochujang and honey
• Kid-Friendly: Replace sriracha with ketchup for milder flavor
• Vegetarian Option: Use cauliflower florets or firm tofu instead of chicken

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish works beautifully with different bases and sides. For a light meal, serve alongside steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad. When you want something heartier, pair with jasmine rice or lo mein noodles to soak up extra sauce. The bold flavors also complement creamy pasta dishes perfectly – consider serving with our creamy beef and shells for a protein-packed dinner spread.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freeze unsauced cooked chicken pieces on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen chicken in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 12-15 minutes until crispy, then toss with fresh sauce.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein	Fiber	Sugar	Sodium
669 kcal	42 g	49 g	21 g	1 g	3 g	1334 mg

FAQs About Bang Bang Chicken

Can I make this recipe without buttermilk?

Absolutely! Create a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. Alternatively, use plain yogurt thinned with a little water.

How do I keep the chicken crispy after saucing?

Toss the chicken with sauce just before serving, and avoid letting it sit too long. For extra protection, serve sauce on the side for dipping. If preparing ahead, store components separately and combine when ready to eat.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

Potato starch works beautifully and creates an even crispier texture. All-purpose flour mixed with a little baking powder also works, though the coating will be slightly denser.

Final Thoughts

This Bang Bang Chicken recipe proves that amazing flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. With its balanced sweet-heat profile and satisfying crunch, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

The customizable spice level makes it perfect for family meals where everyone has different preferences.

Plus, the quick cooking time means you can enjoy restaurant-quality chicken without the wait or expense. Give it a try tonight and discover why this dish earns rave reviews from both novice cooks and experienced food enthusiasts alike!