This Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a tasty treat! It’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that makes every bite exciting.
Honestly, I can’t resist these crispy bites! I enjoy them with rice or simply on their own—perfect for a snack or a meal. Who can say no to that crunch? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work just as well! If you want a lighter option, you could use turkey cutlets, which have a similar texture.
Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes, and you have a great replacement!
Cornstarch: This is key for that extra crispiness. If you’re allergic or don’t have it, you can substitute with rice flour or all-purpose flour, but the texture might not be as light.
Bang Bang Sauce: For a healthier option, you could use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It still gives a creamy texture with added protein!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Crispy Chicken?
Getting that crunchy exterior is all about technique! Here’s how to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly crispy every time:
- Double dip your chicken! Coating it in the egg mixture first, then the flour mix, followed by another dip in the egg and flour will make it extra crunchy.
- Make sure your oil is hot enough—aim for 350°F (175°C). If it’s too cool, your chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy instead of crispy.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady. This leads to even cooking and less sogginess.
- Drain on paper towels right after frying to keep them crispy by removing any excess oil.
If you follow these tips, you’ll be on your way to crispy Bang Bang Chicken success!
Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for frying. All in all, you’re looking at around 35 minutes from start to finish to get this crispy, delicious dish on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until well combined. Set this aside for later use; this will make your chicken juicy and help the coating stick!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix these together well. This will be your crispy coating.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take the chicken pieces, dip them into the egg mixture first, ensuring they are fully coated. Next, toss them in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a nice even coating. For that extra crunch, you can repeat the process—dip in the egg and then in the flour mixture again!
4. Heat the Oil:
In a deep pan or skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium-high heat to cover the chicken pieces. You want it to reach about 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small bit of the flour mixture into the oil; if it bubbles, it’s hot enough.
5. Fry the Chicken:
Add the chicken in batches—don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. After frying, use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
6. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While your chicken is frying, in a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey (if you like it sweeter), and rice vinegar or lime juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.
7. Toss the Chicken in Sauce:
Once all the chicken is fried and crisp, toss the pieces in the Bang Bang sauce. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for the best flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy Bang Bang Chicken immediately! You can garnish it with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for that extra touch. Enjoy it on its own, or with rice for a complete meal. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
This recipe yields crunchy, flavorful Bang Bang Chicken that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking! Thaw it in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat it dry before coating for the best texture.
How Can I Make Bang Bang Chicken Spicier?
If you like it hot, simply increase the amount of Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce or add some red pepper flakes. You can also use a spicier mayonnaise or a dash of cayenne pepper in the coating for an extra kick.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time! Coat the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours before frying. You can also mix the sauce and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just toss and fry the chicken right before serving!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and pop it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness. Enjoy it warm!
