Introduction and Quick Summary

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is the ultimate indulgence for anyone craving a dish that combines crunchiness with a zesty kick. This delightful recipe is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors paired with a satisfying texture. In just a few simple steps, you can create this mouthwatering dish that’s ideal for appetizers or as a main course. Picture succulent pieces of chicken coated in a crispy exterior and smothered in a creamy, spicy sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing.

The beauty of making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken at home lies in its versatility. You can serve it alongside steamed rice or toss it in a fresh salad to balance out the richness. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe promises to impress everyone at the table. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation techniques, even novice cooks can master this dish with ease. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into the world of crispy delights!

Main Ingredients

Chicken Breast

For this recipe, you will need about 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. Choosing high-quality chicken breast is crucial; look for organic or free-range options if possible. This protein source is lean yet tender when cooked properly, providing the perfect base for your crispy coating.

All-Purpose Flour

You will also need 1 cup of all-purpose flour to create the crispy coating on your chicken pieces. The flour acts as the first layer in the breading process and helps achieve that golden-brown crust when fried. Make sure to use unbleached flour for better flavor and texture. If you’re looking for gluten-free alternatives, consider using almond flour or chickpea flour instead.

Cornstarch

Adding ½ cup of cornstarch enhances the crispiness of your chicken bites significantly. Cornstarch absorbs moisture effectively during frying, resulting in a crunchier texture compared to flour alone. It also helps achieve an appealing golden color as the chicken cooks.

Eggs

You will need 2 large eggs for this recipe to bind the flour and cornstarch mixture to the chicken pieces effectively. Beating them until they are well combined ensures an even coating on each piece of chicken before frying.

Panko Breadcrumbs

To achieve that extra crunch factor in your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, incorporate 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs into your ingredients list. These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are larger and airier than traditional bread crumbs, creating an irresistible crispness when fried.

Spices

For seasoning purposes, gather salt and pepper according to taste along with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of paprika. These spices infuse flavor into your batter while enhancing the overall taste profile of the dish.

For The Sauce

The star of this dish is undoubtedly its sauce! For a classic bang bang sauce preparation, you’ll require:

– ½ cup mayonnaise

– 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

– 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust based on heat preference)

This tangy mixture adds depth and creaminess while allowing you to tailor its spiciness! Enjoy experimenting with different proportions until you find what suits your palate best.

How to Prepare Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Step One: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before starting with cooking procedures, ensure that all ingredients are measured out precisely according to the list above—this organization makes cooking more efficient! Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces; aim for approximately one-inch cubes so they cook evenly throughout.

Next, set up three separate bowls: one containing seasoned flour (all-purpose flour mixed with salt & pepper), another with beaten eggs (whisk them until they’re frothy), and finally one filled with panko breadcrumbs mixed together with garlic powder & paprika beforehand—these mixtures should be ready when it’s time to coat our protein!

Step Two: Coat The Chicken

Once everything is prepared, take each piece of chicken and dip it first into the seasoned flour bowl—ensuring an even coating by shaking off any excess back into its container afterward! Then move onto dipping it into beaten eggs—this step provides adhesion between both coatings while locking moisture inside during frying!

Finally comes panko breadcrumb coating! Roll each floured/chicken piece thoroughly through these crunchy bits before placing them aside on a parchment-lined baking sheet—this method allows us ample space without overcrowding our frying pan later on.

Step Three: Fry The Chicken

Using either deep-frying oil or pan-frying methods works wonderfully here! Heat about two inches worth (roughly two cups) of vegetable oil within a large pot until it reaches around 350°F/175°C temperature—using a thermometer ensures precision when determining readiness!

Carefully lower breaded pieces into hot oil without overcrowding; work in batches if necessary! Fry them until they develop an irresistible golden hue (approximately four minutes per side). Employing tongs makes it easier as well as safer when handling hot food items!

After achieving perfection from frying each batch individually—be sure not only to place finished ones onto paper towels but also sprinkle lightly with salt right afterward while still warm—this enhances flavors beautifully!

Step Four: Prepare The Sauce

While waiting for those heavenly bites from earlier batches cool slightly down & drain excess grease—let’s focus on making our signature bang bang sauce! In mixing bowl combine mayonnaise along sweet chili sauce until fully blended together! Add sriracha gradually according personal taste preferences adjusting spice levels accordingly!

Feel free tasting along way ensuring balances between sweetness tanginess meets desired satisfaction level—you may want add little more chili if craving heat remains strong after sampling initial blend!

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken offers endless serving possibilities! Present these delectable bites atop fresh greens drizzled generously with leftover bang bang sauce turning simple salad plate into vibrant meal packed nutrients too!

Alternatively serve them alongside steamed jasmine rice garnishing plates colorful veggies such carrots snow peas adding wholesome dimension every bite! For gatherings consider skewering smaller chunks onto toothpicks creating visually appealing appetizers that guests won’t resist trying out—their hands reaching immediately towards deliciousness oozing goodness everywhere around tables!

Don’t forget those dipping sauces either—the more options provided like sweet chili sauce or spicy mayo open doors creativity pleasing diverse palettes among family friends alike making gatherings memorable occasions celebrating good times together through food enjoyment shared moments cherished forevermore!

Storing Leftovers

If there happen leftovers after enjoying such amazing feast don’t worry—they’ll keep quite well stored correctly! Allow cooked pieces cool down completely before transferring airtight container refrigerate up three days maximum freshness preserved longer period possible—a great way repurpose next day lunch meals quickly heating oven microwave reheating leftover portions maintaining original crispiness intact still experienced enjoyed every single time served again afterwards too!

If planning ahead consider freezing uncooked breaded versions instead which last months stored properly preventing waste—just remember thawing adequately prior attempting fry them later using same methods outlined previously ensuring consistent outcomes every time prepared anew again bringing joy back onto plates served across tables filled laughter love shared moments among loved ones cherished forevermore always remembered fondly whenever dishes hit tables once again soon enough coming back craving return flavors experienced before!

Mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when preparing Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is not marinating the chicken long enough. Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum impact. Using a weak marinade can lead to bland chicken, so ensure you use a mix of flavorful ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and spicy elements like sriracha or chili paste.

Another error is using the wrong type of chicken. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for optimal texture and flavor. Thighs tend to remain juicier than breasts during cooking, which can lead to a more enjoyable eating experience. If you insist on using breasts, be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out quickly.

When it comes to breading, many cooks make the mistake of skipping the double-dipping process. For that extra crispy texture, dip the chicken in flour first, then in an egg wash, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs or panko. This triple-layer technique is essential for achieving that desired crunch.

Lastly, frying at the wrong temperature can ruin your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy instead of crispy. Conversely, if it’s too hot, you risk burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature around 350°F for best results.

Tips and tricks

To elevate your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko provides a lighter and crunchier texture due to its larger flakes. This small change can significantly enhance your dish’s overall crunchiness and appeal.

For an extra kick of flavor, try adding spices to your flour mixture before breading the chicken. Ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even cayenne pepper can add depth to your dish without overwhelming it with heat. This simple step will make every bite more flavorful.

Another trick is to let your fried chicken rest on a cooling rack instead of paper towels after frying. Placing it on a rack allows air circulation around the chicken and prevents steam from making it soggy. This method ensures that each piece retains its crispiness until ready to serve.

Don’t forget about presentation! Serve your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken on a vibrant plate with garnishes such as chopped green onions or sesame seeds. Adding fresh herbs not only enhances visual appeal but also adds freshness that complements the rich flavors of your dish.

Lastly, pairing your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken with an appropriate dipping sauce can elevate the meal even further. A quick homemade spicy mayo made with mayonnaise and sriracha creates a creamy contrast that balances out the crispy texture perfectly.

Suggestions for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

When preparing Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, consider using high-quality ingredients for better flavor and texture. Fresh herbs and spices will yield better results compared to dried ones; they offer stronger flavors that enhance your dish significantly.

Using a cast-iron skillet or deep fryer makes a noticeable difference in cooking quality as well. These options maintain consistent heat better than standard pans and allow for even cooking throughout each piece of chicken. This helps achieve that coveted crispy exterior while ensuring thorough cooking inside.

For those wanting a healthier twist on this recipe, consider baking rather than frying your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. Preheat your oven to 425°F and place breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; spray lightly with cooking oil before baking for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

If you’re catering for dietary restrictions or preferences, try substituting gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of traditional breadcrumbs without compromising crunchiness or taste significantly.

Finally, experiment with different sauces beyond traditional bang bang sauce! Honey mustard or barbecue sauce can provide unique flavor dimensions while maintaining that satisfying crunch you expect from this recipe.

FAQs

What is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a popular dish known for its crunchy exterior and spicy-sweet sauce made from mayonnaise mixed with sriracha or other spicy condiments. The combination creates an irresistible flavor profile that’s both satisfying and deliciously addictive. Typically served as an appetizer or main course, this dish has gained widespread popularity due to its bold flavors and textures.

Can I make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken in advance?

Yes! You can prepare many components ahead of time if you want to save time on busy days. Marinate the chicken hours or even overnight before breading it; however, it’s best not to fry until just before serving so that it retains its crispiness when consumed fresh.

What sides pair well with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

Several side dishes complement Crispy Bang Bang Chicken beautifully! Consider serving it alongside steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for added flavor; simple salads dressed with citrus vinaigrette balance out richness quite well too! You might also enjoy pairing it with roasted vegetables for added nutrition without overwhelming flavors competing against each other.

How do I store leftover Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

To store leftovers properly: allow them to cool completely before transferring into an airtight container within two hours post-cooking time—this prevents condensation buildup which could affect quality upon reheating later on! Store them in refrigeration up until three days; reheating may require oven re-crisping techniques mentioned earlier!

Can I customize sauces used for my Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spice levels according to personal preference by increasing/decreasing quantities within any chosen recipe variation – whether opting solely for mayonnaise-based sauces like ranch dressing might work wonders too! Adding sweet chili sauce gives another dimension worth exploring as well!

Is there a vegetarian version of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

Indeed! You can create ‘Crispy bang bang cauliflower’ using similar techniques applied here but substituting cauliflower florets instead—ensure proper seasoning/marinating processes are followed throughout preparation steps just like traditional methods would involve ensuring robust flavors present throughout final product outcome!

Conclusion

In summary, making perfect Crispy Bang Bang Chicken involves avoiding common mistakes such as insufficient marination time and improper frying temperatures while employing effective tips like utilizing panko breadcrumbs rather than standard ones for enhanced crispiness. Remember always to let fried items rest correctly after cooking so they retain their delightful crunch!

Experimenting with various sauces opens up exciting possibilities while maintaining core principles ensures success every time you prepare this dish at home! By focusing on high-quality ingredients paired thoughtfully alongside suitable sides leads toward satisfying meals everyone enjoys sharing together around dining tables—creating memorable culinary experiences worth savoring long after plates empty out!

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Author: teprod
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

A perfect blend of crispy chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce, creating an irresistible combination that’s both creamy and crunchy.

Ingredients

Scale

1½ pounds chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon each: garlic powder, paprika, salt

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons sriracha
1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

Marinate chicken in buttermilk for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, combine breadcrumbs, flour, and seasonings.
Drain chicken and coat in breadcrumb mixture. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Whisk sauce ingredients in a bowl. Toss crispy chicken in sauce or serve on the side.

Notes

For extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken in breadcrumbs
Air fryer option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes
Make sauce ahead and refrigerate for up to 5 days

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 520
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 38g