Bang Bang Chicken Simple and Tasty Recipe Guide

November 13, 2025May 9, 2025 by Chef Remy

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken

To make Bang Bang Chicken, you need:

– 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

– 1 cup cornstarch

– 2 large eggs, whisked

– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

– ½ teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon black pepper

– ½ teaspoon garlic powder

– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your desired spice level)

– Oil for frying

These ingredients create a crispy, flavorful chicken that shines in this dish.

Ingredients for Bang Bang Sauce

The sauce gives Bang Bang Chicken its name. For the sauce, gather:

– ½ cup mayonnaise

– 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

– 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to your desired spice level)

– 1 teaspoon honey

– 1 teaspoon soy sauce

– 1 teaspoon lime juice

– 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions (for garnish)

Mixing these ingredients results in a creamy, spicy, and sweet flavor.

Commonly Used Substitutes

You can find great substitutes if you lack any ingredients:

– Chicken breast can be swapped for chicken thighs for more flavor.

– If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

– You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.

– Instead of sriracha, try chili garlic sauce for a different kick.

These swaps allow you to customize the recipe to your taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by taking 1 pound of chicken breast. Dice it into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, season the chicken with ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper. Toss the chicken well to coat it evenly. Let it sit for a few minutes to soak up the flavors.

Setting Up the Breading Station

Grab three shallow bowls and place them in a row. In the first bowl, add 1 cup of cornstarch. In the second bowl, whisk 2 large eggs until they are smooth. In the third bowl, pour in 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. This setup makes it easy to bread the chicken.

Coating and Frying the Chicken

First, take a piece of chicken and roll it in the cornstarch. Make sure it is fully coated. Shake off any extra cornstarch. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs. Let any excess egg drip back into the bowl. Finally, roll the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs. Press down gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick. In a large skillet, heat enough oil for frying. It should be about ½ inch deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the breaded chicken in small batches. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to move the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce

In a clean mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, and 1 tablespoon sriracha. You can add more sriracha if you like it spicier. Also, add 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon lime juice. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Tossing and Serving the Chicken

Once the chicken is fried, place it in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle half of the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken. Gently toss it to coat all the pieces. Now, transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Drizzle the rest of the sauce on top. For a fresh look, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of finely chopped green onions as a garnish. Enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Chicken Coating

For the best coating, use cornstarch first. It helps the egg stick better. Make sure each chicken piece is covered in cornstarch. Shake off the extra before dipping it in the egg. This step is key for a crispy finish. After the egg dip, roll the chicken in panko breadcrumbs. Press them down gently to stick well. This gives you a thick, crunchy layer.

Best Oil for Frying

Choose a good oil for frying. I recommend using canola or vegetable oil. These oils can handle high heat without burning. Fill your pan with about half an inch of oil. Heat it until it shimmers but isn’t smoking. This ensures even cooking and a golden color. Fry in small batches for the best results. Too many pieces at once can lower the oil’s temperature.

Adjusting Heat Levels

Spice levels can be adjusted easily. For a milder dish, reduce the cayenne in the chicken mix. You can also cut back on sriracha in the sauce. Taste the Bang Bang sauce as you mix. Add more sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness. This way, you make a sauce just right for your taste!

Variations

Healthier Baked Version

You can make a baked version of Bang Bang Chicken. This option uses less oil. Instead of frying, coat the chicken and bake it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place your breaded chicken on the sheet and spray it lightly with cooking oil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. The chicken will still be crispy and tasty.

Alternative Sauces and Flavors

While the Bang Bang sauce is fantastic, you can try other sauces. A spicy peanut sauce adds a nutty flavor. Mix peanut butter, soy sauce, and a bit of lime juice for a twist. You could also use a sweet and sour sauce. Just combine equal parts of ketchup and vinegar for a simple blend. Experimenting with sauces keeps your meals exciting.

Adding Vegetables or Other Proteins

You can make Bang Bang Chicken even better by adding veggies or other proteins. Try tossing in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. They add color and crunch. For a protein twist, use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. Treat them the same way and coat them with the same spices and sauce. This makes for a fun and filling meal.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store Bang Bang Chicken, let it cool first. Place the chicken in an airtight container. Make sure to separate the chicken from the sauce. This helps keep the chicken crispy. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken in a skillet. Heat it over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps it crispy and warm. You can also microwave it, but it may lose some crunch. If using the microwave, heat it in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

Freezing Tips

You can freeze Bang Bang Chicken for later. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned before.

FAQs

What is the origin of Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken comes from Chinese cuisine. It is known for its bold flavors and crispy texture. The name reflects the sound of the cooking method. It mixes fried chicken with a spicy sauce. This dish is popular in Asian restaurants worldwide.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, you can make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free. Use gluten-free cornstarch and gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also find gluten-free soy sauce. Check all labels to ensure they meet your needs.

What are good side dishes to serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Great side dishes include:

– Steamed rice

– Fried rice

– Stir-fried vegetables

– Asian-style slaw

– Fresh cucumber salad

These sides balance the flavors and make a complete meal.

How do I make Bang Bang Chicken less spicy?

To reduce spice, use less cayenne pepper in the chicken. For the sauce, cut back on sriracha. You can also add more mayonnaise to tone down heat. Taste as you go to reach your perfect spice level.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.

We covered how to make Bang Bang Chicken, from ingredients to serving. I shared key tips for a perfect coating and frying method. If you’re looking for variation, healthier options exist too. Proper storage helps keep leftovers tasty. Lastly, exploring FAQs deepens your dish knowledge. Enjoy making this dish your ow