Crispy Bang Bang Chicken : Sweet Heat Meets Perfect Crunch

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It’s a rainy evening, and the kind that calls for something golden, crispy, and full of flavor. That’s where Crispy Bang Bang Chicken comes in. It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget about takeout. Sweet, spicy, creamy, and unbelievably crunchy, it hits every craving in just one bite.

What Makes This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken So Good

This recipe gives you tender chicken coated in an extra-crispy panko shell, then tossed in a sweet-spicy bang bang sauce that clings perfectly to each bite. The mix of chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha creates a crave-worthy glaze that’s both bold and balanced. It’s fast, easy, and keeps its crunch even after saucing.

Ingredients You’ll Need and Why They Matter

Sauce Components and Flavor Notes

The Bang Bang Sauce blends four pantry staples:

Mayonnaise adds creaminess.
Thai sweet chili sauce gives sweet heat.
Honey adds sticky gloss and balance.
Sriracha brings depth and spice.

Together, these make the silky, addictive coating that defines this dish.

Crispy Chicken Coating Breakdown

For the crunch:

Buttermilk tenderizes.
Flour and cornstarch add structure.
Panko breadcrumbs create that signature golden crisp.
Garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne season the layers from inside out.

Optional Ingredient Swaps and Heat Adjustments

You can add more Sriracha or cayenne for heat, or swap honey for agave. Gluten-free? Use rice flour and gluten-free panko.

How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Step by Step

Step 1: Mix the Signature Bang Bang Sauce

Stir together mayonnaise, chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. Set aside. The sauce should taste sweet at first and finish with a soft kick.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter and Coat the Chicken

In a medium bowl, whisk buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Coat the chicken evenly so each piece gets that creamy layer that holds crumbs later.

Step 3: Press Chicken into Panko for Maximum Crunch

Place panko in a shallow dish. Dip each battered piece into panko, pressing lightly. This double layer locks in the crunch even after saucing.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden and Perfectly Crispy

Heat canola oil (about 1 inch deep) to 365°F. Fry the chicken in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels. You’ll hear that perfect crackle when they hit the plate.

Step 5: Toss in Sauce and Serve Warm

Toss the crispy chicken in your prepared sauce just before serving. Sprinkle chopped parsley for freshness.

Crispy Bang Bang chicken tenders with dipping sauce on marble table — Crispy Bang Bang chicken tenders served with creamy chili dipping sauce on a marble tabletop.

Cooking Method Variations

Air Fryer Instructions for a Lighter Version

Coat chicken as directed, spray with oil, and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway. It comes out light, crisp, and just as flavorful.

Oven-Baked Method for Hands-Off Cooking

Place coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping once for even color.

Serving Ideas and Pairings

Serve over jasmine rice or with a light slaw for crunch. It also pairs beautifully with roasted veggies or a quick Simple Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. For a comforting dinner spread, try it alongside Crockpot Salsa Verde Chicken or Tasty Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Cool completely before storing to keep the coating crisp. Refrigerate up to 5 days or freeze up to 6 months in airtight containers. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crunch. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.

Nutrition Details and What to Expect

Each serving packs around 1,415 calories, with 52g of protein and a satisfying balance of carbs and fats. It’s indulgent, filling, and best enjoyed in moderation.

Expert Tips for the Crispiest Results Every Time

Always use room-temperature egg for smooth batter.
Keep oil hot but not smoking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan it lowers the temperature.
Toss with sauce right before serving to preserve texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is crispy bang bang chicken?

It’s a crispy fried chicken dish coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce made from mayo, chili sauce, and Sriracha.

What exactly is Bang Bang Chicken?

Traditionally, Bang Bang Chicken is a Sichuan-inspired street dish named for the “bang” sound made when tenderizing chicken. This version keeps the spirit but adds American-style crunch.

What is the sauce in Bang Bang Chicken?

It’s a mix of mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha for that signature sweet-spicy creaminess.

Is Bang Bang good on chicken?

Absolutely. It adds a flavorful glaze that sticks beautifully to crispy coatings, making every bite rich and balanced.

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Conclusion

This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe brings restaurant-style flavor right to your kitchen. The combo of heat, crunch, and creaminess makes it a weeknight favorite that everyone devours fast. Want more easy dinner ideas? Follow me on Pinterest or connect on Facebook for new weekly recipes that fit real life and real cravings.