Craving something crispy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible? Look no further!
This step-by-step recipe for Quick and Easy Bang Bang Chicken will guide you through making perfectly fried chicken, coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re planning an appetizer or a main course, this dish is a versatile addition to any meal. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete dining experience that will have your family and friends singing your praises.
History and Origin of Bang Bang Chicken
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich history and origin of Bang Bang Chicken.
This dish has its roots in Chinese cuisine, particularly in the Sichuan province. Traditionally, Bang Bang Chicken is made by poaching chicken and then shredding it by banging it with a wooden stick, hence the name “Bang Bang.”
The shredded chicken is then dressed with a flavorful sauce made from sesame paste, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil.
Over the years, this dish has evolved and adapted to different culinary traditions, giving rise to various interpretations of Bang Bang Chicken.
The version we’ll be focusing on today is a popular American adaptation that features crispy fried chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce.
This fusion of flavors and textures has made it a favorite in many households and restaurants.
Quick Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
Let’s dive into this restaurant-style dish and master it in the comfort of your own kitchen!
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 500g chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken tenderloins. These are found underneath the chicken breast and are known for their tenderness and juiciness. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres well.
Step 2: Making the Bang Bang Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha sauce, and honey. Use a whisk or spatula to mix until the sauce is smooth and well-incorporated. Set the sauce aside; this will be used to coat the fried chicken later.
Step 3: Setting Up the Breading Station
In one bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will be your dry mix. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg to create the wet mix.
Step 4: Breading the Chicken
Take each chicken tenderloin and dip it first into the dry flour mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Then dip it into the buttermilk and egg mixture.
Finally, dip it back into the dry flour mixture, pressing down to ensure the breading sticks well. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 5: Heating the Oil
Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or skillet to a depth of about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check the temperature.
Step 6: Frying the Chicken
Carefully place the breaded chicken tenderloins into the hot oil. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Cook each batch for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Tossing the Chicken in Bang Bang Sauce
Once all the chicken tenderloins are fried, place them in a large mixing bowl. Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and gently toss to coat each piece evenly.
Step 8: Garnishing and Serving
Transfer the saucy chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. Serve the Bang Bang Chicken hot and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
Make Ahead: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Custom Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha sauce in the Bang Bang sauce to control the spiciness according to your taste.
Serving Ideas: Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures.
The crispy chicken, combined with the creamy and spicy Bang Bang sauce, creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
Plus, with the easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this dish in no time.
Next time you’re in the mood for something new and exciting, give this Bang Bang Chicken recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
Feel free to share this recipe with your friends and family. Happy cooking! 🍗
Try More Delicious Recipes
18 Easy Stovetop Chicken Thigh Recipes for One Pan Meals
2 thoughts on “Easy Bang Bang Chicken”