Bang bang chicken is a dish that combines spicy, sweet, and savory flavors in a way that dances on your taste buds. Imagine crispy chicken coated in a creamy sauce that has just the right amount of kick, making you feel like a culinary master with every bite.
Every time I whip up bang bang chicken, it transports me back to family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, eagerly anticipating the first taste. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or lively parties, promising an explosion of flavor that will leave your guests clamoring for more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy bang bang chicken recipe is not only packed with flavor but also takes minimal time to prepare
- The eye-catching presentation makes it a showstopper at any meal
- You can customize the spice level according to your preference, ensuring everyone enjoys it
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a crowd-pleasing party dish!
I remember the first time I made this for my friends; their eyes widened with delight as they took their first bites, and suddenly my kitchen turned into a lively food festival.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
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Cornstarch: This helps create that crispy coating; make sure it’s fresh for the best texture.
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Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the sauce; use full-fat mayo for richer flavor.
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Sriracha Sauce: Adjust the level based on how much heat you can handle; it’s fantastic for spice lovers.
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Honey: Balances out the heat with sweetness; local honey can add unique flavors.
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Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens up the sauce and adds zest.
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Green Onions: Chopped for garnish; they add freshness and a pop of color to the final dish.
For the Sauce:
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce works best to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
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Garlic Powder: Adds depth to the sauce; fresh minced garlic can be used for an extra kick.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare your workspace by gathering all necessary ingredients and tools like bowls and measuring spoons. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), preparing you for some serious cooking magic.
Prep the Chicken: Cut boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to help achieve that coveted crispy crust.
Dredge in Cornstarch: Toss each piece of chicken in cornstarch until well-coated. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crunch everyone loves!
Fry Until Golden: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add oil and cook chicken pieces until golden brown. They should sizzle as they hit the pan—this is when magic begins!
Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, honey, lime juice, soy sauce, and garlic powder until smooth. The aroma will make you want to dive right in!
Add Chicken to Sauce: Once your chicken is cooked through and crispy, toss it in the prepared sauce until each piece is nicely coated. The transformation into something extraordinary happens here!
Serve and Garnish: Plate your bang bang chicken beautifully; sprinkle chopped green onions on top for an extra zing. Your dinner guests won’t know what hit them!
With these steps complete, you’re ready to enjoy one of life’s delicious pleasures—bang bang chicken! It’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions. Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Bang bang chicken is a delightful dish that marries spice with creaminess, making it irresistible
- The vibrant colors and aromas are sure to impress at any gathering, while the versatility allows for easy customization based on your pantry staples
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in a spicy blend, then grill until golden brown and juicy. Meanwhile, whip up the creamy sauce to drizzle on top, combining flavors seamlessly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients; try almond butter instead of peanut butter for a unique twist. Add veggies like broccoli or snap peas for extra color and crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain that delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor profile
- Check for doneness using a meat thermometer—165°F ensures perfect juiciness
- Don’t skip the sauce; it’s what makes this dish unforgettable!
Sharing a meal of bang bang chicken with my family always brings laughter and compliments, especially when someone asks for seconds before finishing their first plate!
FAQ
What is bang bang chicken?
Bang bang chicken is a spicy, creamy dish typically made with chicken and a flavorful sauce.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian version.
How can I adjust the spice level?
Adjust the amount of chili paste in the sauce according to your preferred heat level.
Bang Bang Chicken
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Bang Bang Chicken is a tantalizing dish that perfectly blends spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors. Crispy chicken bites are generously coated in a zesty sauce, making each bite a delightful experience. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, guaranteed to impress your guests with its explosion of flavor and eye-catching presentation. Quick and easy to prepare, you can customize the spice level to suit everyone’s taste.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2–4 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust for heat)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 green onions (chopped for garnish)
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
- Dredge chicken pieces in cornstarch until well-coated.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook chicken until golden brown.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, honey, lime juice, soy sauce, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Toss cooked chicken in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
