There’s nothing quite like the thrill of taking a simple ingredient and transforming it into something extraordinary. My go-to recipe for Bang Bang Chicken Sauce does just that, turning ordinary chicken breasts into a spicy, crispy delight that satisfies any craving. This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen—trust me, each bite will have everyone coming back for more! With a quick prep time and an irresistible sauce that packs a flavor punch, it's a fantastic upgrade to your dinner routine. So, are you ready to dive into this delicious adventure that will brighten your table? Let's get cooking!
Why is Bang Bang Chicken Sauce a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: This sauce strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and heat, making every bite a taste sensation.
Quick Prep: You can whip this up in just one hour, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer or main course, and watch your guests rave about it!
Crispy Perfection: The frying technique ensures a crunchy exterior that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress and have everyone asking for seconds!
If you're looking to elevate your flavor game, this Bang Bang Chicken Sauce is your answer!
Bang Bang Chicken Sauce Ingredients
Unlock the secret to a flavor-packed dish with these simple ingredients!
For the Chicken
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
• 1 cup buttermilk – This tenderizes the chicken and adds a lovely tangy flavor.
For the Coating
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – A light coating helps achieve that crispy exterior.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a savory depth to the coating.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Imparts a subtle smokiness and lovely color.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing all the delicious flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Offers a hint of warmth and balance.
For Frying
• Vegetable oil for frying – Use enough to cover the bottom of the pan for even cooking.
For the Sauce
• ½ cup mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the Bang Bang Sauce.
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce – Provides sweetness and a touch of heat.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha – Adjust this spicy ingredient according to your heat preference!
• 1 teaspoon lime juice – Brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing touch.
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional) – Use this if you prefer a touch more sweetness in your sauce.
Now that you have all the Bang Bang Chicken Sauce ingredients lined up, get ready for a cooking adventure that will have your taste buds dancing!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring each piece is uniform for even cooking. Next, pour the buttermilk into a medium bowl, immersing the chicken pieces completely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will tenderize the chicken and enhance its flavor.
Step 2: Make the Coating
While the chicken marinades, in a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to blend the dry ingredients until they are well incorporated and there are no lumps. This flour mixture will create the delicious crispy coating for your Bang Bang Chicken.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
After the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Take each piece out of the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off, and then dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is well-coated for a crispy finish. Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack and let them sit for about 10 minutes; this helps the coating adhere better during frying.
Step 4: Whisk the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and honey (if you’re using it). Stir the mixture until it's smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are incorporated. This sauce will deliver the perfect sweet and spicy kick to complement your Bang Bang Chicken; feel free to adjust the sriracha based on your heat preference.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or deep frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about ½ inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a sizzling temperature of 350°F (175°C). You can test if it’s ready by dropping in a small piece of the coated chicken; it should sizzle vigorously upon contact.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Now it's time to plate your glorious Bang Bang Chicken! Arrange the fried chicken on a large platter or serve it on individual plates. Drizzle the flavorful Bang Bang sauce over the chicken or offer it on the side as a dipping option. For a lovely presentation, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds, and prepare for your taste buds to explode with joy!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken Sauce
Fridge: Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Freezer: You can freeze cooked Bang Bang Chicken for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Sauce Storage: Keep any remaining Bang Bang sauce in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week. It makes a fantastic dipping sauce for future meals!
Reheating: For the best taste and texture, reheat the chicken in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This will help retain its crispy coating!
Bang Bang Chicken Sauce Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists to personalize your Bang Bang Chicken experience!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
This keeps the essence of the dish while catering to gluten sensitivities. -
Spicy Kick: Increase the sriracha to 2 tablespoons or add red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat.
This variation is perfect for those who crave that fiery flavor in every bite! -
Crispy Breading: Crush some cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs and mix into the flour before coating the chicken.
You’ll love the crackly extra crunch once these golden morsels come out of the frying pan! -
Baked Option: Toss the coated chicken pieces with a little olive oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
This lower-calorie version is still packed with flavor while being healthier and less messy! -
Vegan Delight: Replace chicken with tofu or cauliflower wings, and use plant-based mayo for the sauce.
Enjoy this vegan take that’s just as satisfying, allowing everyone to indulge in a tasty meal! -
Zesty Sauce: Incorporate a teaspoon of garlic or ginger into the Bang Bang sauce for a fresh flavor boost.
This little addition will elevate your dipping experience to something truly special! -
Herbaceous Touch: Stir in a handful of fresh cilantro or green onions right into the sauce for a brightness.
The vibrant herbs infuse life into the sauce, pairing perfectly with the crispy chicken. -
Tangy Twist: Swap lime juice with rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different tangy flavor profile.
This slight tweak will bring a refreshing twist to your beloved Bang Bang Chicken sauce!
These variations will surely inspire kitchen creativity and keep your meals exciting. If you’re adventurous, don’t forget to check out my scrumptious recipes for Bang Bang Shrimp or Garlic Aioli to accompany your delightful chicken!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Sauce
Elevate your meal with these delightful pairings that enhance every bite of your savory masterpiece.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and subtle flavor create a perfect counterbalance to the spiciness of the chicken.
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Crispy Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing slaw adds a zesty crunch, making each bite of chicken even more enjoyable.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrients and balances the richness of the sauce, making it a wholesome addition.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, toasty garlic bread provides a satisfying crunch and is perfect for soaking up the delicious Bang Bang sauce.
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Fried Rice: The savory notes of fried rice complement the chicken beautifully and make for a hearty side that’s always a hit.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette offers a cool contrast to the crispy, spicy chicken, balancing the meal perfectly.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly lemonade refreshes and cleanses the palate, making every bite feel even more delicious.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a rich chocolate mousse adds a sweet, indulgent finish to your meal, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Chicken Sauce preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that it remains tender and flavorful. Additionally, you can prepare the coating and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the sauce, mix all the ingredients and refrigerate it in a sealed jar up to 3 days before serving. When you’re ready to fry, simply coat the marinated chicken pieces and fry them until golden brown. This way, you’ll have delicious Bang Bang Chicken with minimal effort, perfect for weeknight dinners!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Sauce
Marination Matters: Allowing the chicken to marinate in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes ensures tenderness and enhances flavor—don't skip this step!
Coating Technique: Make sure to coat the chicken pieces well and let them rest on a wire rack; this helps the flour adhere better and creates an extra crispy finish.
Oil Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying; cooking at too low a temperature can lead to soggy chicken.
Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain the oil temperature, which ensures even cooking and crispiness—avoiding overcrowding is key!
Sauce Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the level of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to match your family's spice tolerance, ensuring it’s just right for everyone!
Bang Bang Chicken Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Bang Bang Chicken Sauce?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe as they provide a tender texture and flavorful bite. Make sure to choose high-quality chicken; it makes a big difference in the taste. If you prefer a juicier option, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, but be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may take a little longer to cook through.
How should I store leftovers of Bang Bang Chicken Sauce?
To keep your leftovers fresh, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, I suggest reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to help restore that crispy texture. You can also use a microwave with a splash of water to keep the chicken moist, but the oven is the best for maintaining the crunch.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Sauce?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked Bang Bang Chicken for up to 3 months. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—this helps keep the coating nice and crispy.
What should I do if my chicken coating isn't crispy?
If your chicken coating lacks that desired crispiness, a few adjustments can help! Ensure you've allowed the coated chicken to rest on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before frying; this helps the flour adhere better. Also, ensure your oil is hot enough—about 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too cool, the chicken can absorb too much oil and become soggy instead of crispy.
Is Bang Bang Chicken Sauce safe for those with allergies?
Always check the ingredient labels for any potential allergens. This recipe uses common allergens like eggs (in the mayonnaise) and wheat (in the flour). If you or someone you're serving has specific allergies, consider using egg-free mayonnaise and a gluten-free flour alternative to make it suitable for those dietary needs.
Irresistible Bang Bang Chicken Sauce: A Flavor Explosion
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, ensuring each piece is uniform for even cooking. Pour the buttermilk into a medium bowl, immersing the chicken pieces completely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- While the chicken marinates, in a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk to blend the dry ingredients until they are well incorporated.
- After the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Take each piece out of the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off, and dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack and let them sit for about 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and honey (if you’re using it). Stir the mixture until it's smooth and creamy.
- In a large skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about ½ inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a sizzling temperature of 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown.
- Arrange the fried chicken on a platter or serve it on individual plates. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken or offer it on the side. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
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