Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: A Flavorful Recipe You Can’t Resist

If you’re a fan of crispy, flavorful chicken with a spicy-sweet kick, then Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a dish you absolutely need to try. This recipe is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, featuring tender, juicy chicken coated in a crispy outer layer and tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something delicious, this dish is sure to impress.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, from the ingredients to step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and even the nutritional breakdown. Plus, we’ll share some serving suggestions and variations to make this recipe your own. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors in the Bang Bang sauce is simply addictive.
• Perfect Texture: The chicken is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making every bite a delight.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or even as a topping for salads or rice bowls.

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Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need two main components: the Bang Bang Sauce and the Crispy Chicken. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup chili-garlic sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons sriracha
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Black pepper, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Crispy Chicken Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, enough for frying
• Spicy chili flakes (optional, for garnish)
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chili-garlic sauce, honey, sriracha, paprika, lemon juice, black pepper, and salt.
2. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a spicier sauce, add more sriracha or chili-garlic sauce.
4. Cover the sauce and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Chicken

1. Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a wide pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 375°F (190°C) for optimal frying.
2. While the oil is heating, place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Ensure all the chicken pieces are well-coated. Let them soak while the oil heats up.
3. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, shaking off any excess, and coat them in the seasoned cornstarch mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
2. Fry the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Toss the Chicken in Bang Bang Sauce

1. Once all the chicken pieces are fried, transfer them to a large bowl.
2. Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
3. Garnish with spicy chili flakes and fresh chopped parsley, if desired.

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The History and Origin of Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken, also known as “Bon Bon Chicken,” is a dish with roots in Sichuan cuisine, a culinary style known for its bold, spicy, and complex flavors. The name “Bang Bang” is said to originate from the traditional method of preparing the chicken, where cooks would use a wooden stick or mallet to tenderize the meat. This technique not only softened the chicken but also allowed it to absorb flavors more effectively. Over time, the dish evolved, and today, it is celebrated in various forms across the globe, including the popular Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe.

The original version of Bang Bang Chicken is quite different from the crispy, fried version we know today. Traditionally, it consists of poached or boiled chicken that is shredded and served cold, topped with a spicy sesame sauce. The dish is often accompanied by cucumbers, peanuts, and scallions, creating a refreshing yet flavorful meal. However, the modern twist on this classic dish involves coating the chicken in a crispy batter, frying it to golden perfection, and tossing it in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce.

This evolution of Bang Bang Chicken reflects the adaptability of culinary traditions, as chefs and home cooks alike experiment with flavors and techniques to create new and exciting dishes. The Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe is a testament to this innovation, combining the essence of the original dish with the irresistible appeal of fried chicken. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Sichuan cuisine or simply love crispy, flavorful chicken, this dish offers the best of both worlds.

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Why Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the standout qualities of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is its versatility. This dish is perfect for almost any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, preparing a weeknight dinner, or even packing leftovers for lunch. Its bold flavors and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring that everyone at the table will be reaching for seconds.

For parties and gatherings, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken can be served as an appetizer or finger food. Simply skewer the chicken pieces with toothpicks and arrange them on a platter for easy serving. The spicy-sweet sauce adds a unique twist that sets it apart from typical party snacks, making it a memorable addition to your menu. If you’re hosting a larger crowd, consider doubling or tripling the recipe to ensure there’s enough to go around.

On busy weeknights, this dish is a lifesaver. The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated techniques, making it accessible even for novice cooks. Plus, it comes together in under an hour, so you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with steamed rice or a simple salad for a complete, satisfying dinner.

For those who enjoy meal prepping, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is an excellent option. The fried chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain its crispiness. Pack it with some fresh veggies and rice for a delicious, ready-to-eat lunch that will brighten up your workday.

No matter the occasion, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that delivers on flavor, texture, and convenience. Its adaptability makes it a go-to recipe for everything from casual dinners to special celebrations.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Use a Thermometer: To ensure the oil is at the right temperature, use a kitchen thermometer. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn; if it’s not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Frying the chicken in batches ensures even cooking and a crispy texture.
• Double Coat for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy coating, dip the chicken in buttermilk and cornstarch twice before frying.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of sriracha and chili-garlic sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve the chicken on skewers or toothpicks for a fun party snack.
• Over Rice: Pair the chicken with steamed jasmine or basmati rice for a hearty meal.
• In a Salad: Add the chicken to a bed of greens, cucumbers, and carrots for a spicy twist on a chicken salad.
• In a Wrap: Stuff the chicken into tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of extra Bang Bang sauce for a delicious wrap.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 470 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0.1g
• Cholesterol: 88mg
• Sodium: 1124mg
• Potassium: 525mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 9g
• Vitamin A: 1213 IU
• Vitamin C: 3mg
• Calcium: 49mg
• Iron: 1mg

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Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cornstarch to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Air Fryer Method: For a healthier version, cook the chicken in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute buttermilk with a mixture of almond milk and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
• Vegetarian Twist: Replace the chicken with cauliflower florets or tofu for a vegetarian alternative.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Crispy Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

3. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, the texture may not be as crispy as fried chicken.

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Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines crispy, golden chicken with a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite for many. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this dish is sure to hit the spot.