Description

Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that tantalizes the taste buds and speaks to the soul with the perfect balance of crispy textures, a succulent chicken profile, and an addictive spicy-sweet sauce. Originating from the vibrant kitchens of Asian cuisine, this dish has spread its wings across the globe, capturing hearts—and stomachs—everywhere. The secret? It’s all in the wonderfully crispy fried chicken tenderloins paired with a silky-smooth sauce that dances between sweet and spicy.

Imagine serving this at your next family gathering or cozy dinner. The aroma wafting through the kitchen will have your friends and family flocking to the table before you can even say, “Bang Bang!” Despite its enticing name and fantastic flavor punch, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it the perfect option for both experienced home chefs and those just starting their culinary journeys.

The best part? Whether served as a main dish or an appetizer, Bang Bang Chicken is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Dive into the kitchen and uncover the joy of cooking this delightful dish, bringing a little Asian flair and warmth into your home.

Ingredients

• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
• ½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha, or more to taste
• 2 tablespoons honey
• For the Fried Chicken:
• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup (245 g) buttermilk
• ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (64 g) cornstarch
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for spice preference)
• 2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs, plain
• Canola oil, for frying
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Preparation Method

1. Whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a small bowl to make Bang Bang sauce and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper to create a batter.
3. Coat chicken tenderloins in the batter until thoroughly covered.
4. Place panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate and roll each battered tenderloin in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
5. Heat canola oil in a large skillet to about 365°F (185°C) for frying.
6. Fry the coated chicken in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Toss the hot fried chicken with the Bang Bang sauce in a large bowl.
9. Serve the coated chicken on a plate and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy!

Tips and Conclusion

For a delightful pairing, consider serving your Bang Bang Chicken with a side of jasmine rice or a refreshing slaw. The tenderness of the rice complements the crispiness of the chicken beautifully, while the slaw adds a delightful crunch. If you want to cater to a spicy palate, try adding extra Sriracha to the sauce or serving it alongside timed jalapeños. Enjoy leftovers? Store any uneaten Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to keep that crispiness intact, rather than using the microwave which may leave the chicken soggy.
Creating Bang Bang Chicken offers a fulfilling culinary experience that results in an extraordinary dish worthy of any table. The delightful crunch, the scrumptious sauce, and the juiciness of the chicken create an unforgettable meal that’s as enticing to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this flavorful dish brings a little touch of culinary adventure right into your kitchen.

If you're looking for more inspiration, why not explore other recipes that take traditional flavor combinations and elevate them? Try your hand at crafting homemade spring rolls or a comforting bowl of coconut curry for a delightful fusion dinner. Feel free to share this recipe with friends and family, and encourage them to explore more delicious dishes on the site! Happy cooking!