Description
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken features tender, marinated chicken pieces coated in a crunchy flour and cornstarch blend, then deep-fried to golden perfection. Tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce, this Asian-American appetizer delivers a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and tang. Ideal as a snack or served over rice or salad for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 inches)
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Refrigerate and let marinate for at least 30 minutes to up to 4 hours to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create an even seasoning blend for the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully and evenly coated for maximum crispiness.
- Heat the Oil and Fry: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot and heat to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking each batch for 4–5 minutes. Turn occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth and well combined. Adjust sriracha for desired heat level.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the hot crispy chicken or toss to coat evenly. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding extra sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Bang Bang sauce.
- This dish works wonderfully as an appetizer or can be served over rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Marinating the chicken for longer than 30 minutes (up to 4 hours) enhances tenderness and flavor.
- Ensure the oil temperature remains steady at 350°F for optimal crispy texture and thorough cooking.
