Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that balances crispy, juicy chicken with a creamy, sweet, and just-spicy-enough kick, Bang Bang Chicken is the recipe you need in your life right now. Each golden chicken tender is perfectly coated in a panko crust, fried until irresistibly crunchy, then tossed in a lip-smacking blend of mayo, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha. Why settle for the ordinary when you can serve up bold flavor, bold texture, and a dish that’s guaranteed to be the hit of any table? Let me take you through every delicious step of making Bang Bang Chicken at home—trust me, you’ll want this in your dinner rotation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the greatest joys of Bang Bang Chicken is how each simple ingredient brings something special to the table. From the crispy panko that gives you that signature crunch, to the sauce’s addictive sweet heat, every component is thoughtfully chosen to create pure magic. Here’s what you need, and why you need it:

• Mayonnaise: Acts as a creamy, tangy base for the Bang Bang sauce, blending everything together beautifully.
• Thai sweet chili sauce: Brings a sweet and slightly spicy depth that really makes the sauce pop.
• Sriracha: Adds just the right hit of heat, customizable depending on your spice preferences!
• Honey: Sweetens the sauce, balancing the spice and giving it a glossy sheen.
• Boneless skinless chicken tenderloins: The tender, juicy stars of the show, perfect for soaking up all those flavors.
• Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick, ensuring each bite is moist inside.
• All-purpose flour: Lends structure to the batter, helping that crust get just the right crispiness.
• Cornstarch: Lightens the coating, adding an extra layer of crunch.
• Large egg: Binds the batter together and adds richness.
• Sriracha (in batter): Doubles down on the flavor, giving the chicken itself a subtle heat.
• Garlic powder: Adds a savory boost to the coating.
• Kosher salt: Enhances every flavor and keeps the seasoning spot on.
• Black pepper: Offers a gentle warmth and depth to every bite.
• Cayenne pepper (optional): For the spice enthusiasts—add a pinch for extra fire.
• Panko breadcrumbs (plain): Give the chicken that signature light and shattering crunch.
• Canola oil: Neutral in flavor, perfect for frying up your chicken to a golden brown.
• Parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds a pop of green and freshness at the end.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

Let’s start with the flavor bomb that gives Bang Bang Chicken its name! In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Use a whisk or spoon to blend until completely smooth and creamy. Set this aside—you’ll want every last drop ready to coat your hot, crispy chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Batter

In a medium mixing bowl, create your marinade/batter by whisking together buttermilk, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, a large egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and a dash of cayenne (if you like things extra spicy). Gently toss your chicken tenderloins into this mixture, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated. This step infuses the chicken with flavor from the inside out and ensures a juicy bite.

Step 3: Dredge in Panko

Pour those plain panko breadcrumbs onto a shallow plate. Now, working one chicken piece at a time, lift it out of the batter, shake off the excess, and press it into the panko so every nook and cranny is coated. Take your time here: this is where the crunch comes from! Set the breaded pieces aside on a clean plate until all are ready to go.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Grab a large skillet and pour in about an inch of canola oil. Heat over medium-high until a thermometer reads 365°F—this temperature is key for a perfectly crisp, golden coating. Fry the chicken in batches, just a few pieces at a time so you don’t crowd the pan. Each piece will take about 2–3 minutes per side; you want rich color and an internal temperature of 165°F. Once fried, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and keep that shell shatteringly crisp.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

While the chicken is still warm, toss all those crisp tenders with your homemade Bang Bang sauce in a large bowl—give them a good tumble until every piece is gleaming. Arrange on a platter and shower with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Get ready for the oohs and ahhs!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of chopped parsley breathes a little herbaceous brightness into the dish, but feel free to get creative. Try a scattering of thinly sliced green onions or a dusting of toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and color. No need to go overboard—the goal is to complement, not outshine, your perfectly sauced chicken.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken begs for sides that are simple but satisfying. A fresh slaw, like shredded cabbage with a light vinaigrette, can balance the richness. Steamed white rice or fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for sopping up extra sauce. For a full-on feast, try serving with roasted broccoli or snap peas for crunch, or even a sweet mango salad to play off the sauce’s tangy notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Shake things up by serving Bang Bang Chicken in lettuce cups for a fresh appetizer, or slice it and pile into warm tortillas for next-level chicken tacos. You can even skewer the fried pieces and drizzle them with extra Bang Bang sauce for a party-friendly finger food. Kids love it served with extra sauce for dipping—and trust me, grown-ups will too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Bang Bang Chicken (a rare thing in my house!), transfer the cooled chicken to an airtight container. Store the sauce separately, if possible, to help the coating stay as crisp as possible. Both the chicken and sauce keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Bang Bang Chicken for a later treat. Let the fried chicken cool completely, then arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Don’t freeze tossed with sauce—add that fresh after reheating. These will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

The best way to reheat Bang Bang Chicken and keep it crispy is in the oven or air fryer. Bake at 375°F on a wire rack until heated through and re-crisped, usually about 10 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, a toaster oven works well too. Avoid microwaving if you can, as it will soften the crust.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts or thighs instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts work wonderfully if sliced into strips, and thighs offer a richer, juicier alternative. Just adjust the cooking time based on thickness to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The recipe, as written, has a mild to medium heat thanks to the Sriracha and optional cayenne. If you’re sensitive to spice, simply reduce (or leave out) the Sriracha in the sauce and batter. Love the heat? Add extra!

Can Bang Bang Chicken be baked instead of fried?

You bet! Simply arrange the breaded chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, spray them lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F until golden and cooked through (about 18–20 minutes), flipping halfway.

Is there a way to make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the buttermilk for a non-dairy milk (like almond or oat) mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Use your favorite dairy-free mayo and you’re set!

What can I do with leftover Bang Bang sauce?

Don’t let a drop go to waste! This sauce is fabulous as a dip for fries or veggies, drizzled over roasted potatoes, or even as a spread for sandwiches or wraps. It won’t last long!

Final Thoughts

Once you experience the punchy flavors and addictive crunch of homemade Bang Bang Chicken, you’ll see why it’s a staple in so many kitchens. Whether you’re hosting friends, treating family, or keeping it all to yourself (no judgment!), this is one recipe that’s always worth making. Grab those ingredients, invite someone you love, and get ready to share one phenomenal dish!

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