Bang Bang Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Saucy, and Totally Addictive

Bang Bang Chicken is the crispy, creamy, sweet-heat chicken dish that’ll have your whole family dipping, double-dipping, and maybe even licking their plates (hey, no judgment). If your weeknights feel like a race against time, or you’re just tired of another bland chicken dinner that your kids side-eye like it’s broccoli in disguise—this recipe is about to be your new best friend.

Made with tender chicken tenderloins, dunked in a seasoned buttermilk batter, fried to golden crunchiness, and tossed in a creamy, sweet-spicy Bang Bang sauce, this dish hits every happy taste bud note. Whether you serve it with rice, inside wraps, or just as a finger food at game night, this Bang Bang Chicken is a quick crowd-pleaser. Bonus? You can prep the sauce ahead of time. Because we love a make-ahead moment.

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What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken might sound like something that exploded out of a Food Network show, but it’s actually a dish with humble roots and serious flavor game. Inspired by Asian-American fusion cuisine, it’s usually made with crispy fried chicken that’s drenched in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce.

The sauce is the star here—typically a blend of mayo, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and a touch of Sriracha for that signature bang. Traditionally, the chicken is served as an appetizer (think lettuce wraps), but it’s so satisfying it often becomes the main course. The texture contrast between the crunchy coating and velvety sauce is what makes people go, “Wait, can I get that recipe?” It’s fast-casual comfort food, only homemade and way better than takeout. Plus, you control the heat and the crisp—what’s not to love?

Reasons to Try Bang Bang Chicken

Look, Bang Bang Chicken isn’t just another chicken recipe—it’s the chicken recipe that gets people talking. First off, it’s simple to make and doesn’t require fancy ingredients you’ll only use once (looking at you, fish sauce). You probably already have most of this stuff in your pantry. Second, it’s incredibly versatile. Want it spicy? Add more Sriracha.

Need it kid-friendly? Dial it back. You can serve it as an appetizer, dinner entrée, or tucked into a wrap with crunchy lettuce. Third, it’s a guaranteed hit for picky eaters. There’s something magical about crispy chicken coated in a slightly sweet, creamy sauce—it’s like fast food without the drive-thru guilt. And if you’re feeling a little extra, it pairs beautifully with our Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo or a side of Cantonese Chow Mein. Finally, it’s one of those dishes that feels like a treat but takes less than an hour, start to finish.

Ingredients Needed to Make Bang Bang Chicken

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup buttermilk
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 cups plain panko breadcrumbs
• Canola oil, for frying
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Making Bang Bang Chicken step by step is not only easy, but honestly kind of fun—especially when that golden crunch hits just right. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just trying to survive another weeknight dinner, this step-by-step guide breaks everything down with clear, helpful directions so nothing gets missed. Follow along to bring crispy, creamy, spicy magic to your table. Ready? Let’s get cooking.

Step 1: Whisk Together the Bang Bang Sauce

Start by making the star of the show—your Bang Bang sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 cup of mayonnaise
• ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha
• 2 tablespoons honey

Whisk until smooth and silky. The texture should be creamy but pourable. This sauce is sweet, slightly spicy, and oh-so-addictive. Cover it and set it aside, or better yet, refrigerate it while you prep the chicken. Chilling helps the flavors marry and makes the sauce extra satisfying when it hits hot, crispy chicken. Want to switch it up? Check out these quick ingredient swaps if you’re looking for a dairy-free version or a lighter mayo alternative.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

Now let’s move on to flavoring the chicken from the inside out. In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• 1 cup buttermilk
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra kick)

This mixture should be smooth and slightly thick—like pancake batter. The combo of buttermilk and cornstarch creates tender chicken with a crispy outside. Add the chicken tenderloins and make sure each piece is fully coated. Let it sit in the marinade for at least 10 minutes. This brief soak locks in moisture and flavor, making it ideal for crispy chicken recipes like this or even something like Cheesy Chicken Crescent Bake.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Next up in our step-by-step Bang Bang Chicken process: the breading. On a flat plate or shallow bowl, pour out 2 cups of plain panko breadcrumbs.

Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Press it into the breadcrumbs, making sure all sides are covered. Don’t be shy—press firmly so the panko sticks well. This is what gives that amazing crunch when fried. Lay the breaded chicken on a clean plate or tray and repeat with the rest. Pro tip: bread the chicken right before frying to avoid sogginess. If you’re interested in more prep advice, our kitchen preparation tips are super helpful for time-saving hacks.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Now the real fun begins—frying. In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 365°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping in a breadcrumb—it should sizzle immediately.

Working in batches, fry the chicken tenders for about 2–3 minutes per side. They should turn a deep golden brown and crisp up beautifully. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer—your chicken should reach an internal temp of 165°F. Avoid overcrowding the pan so the oil temperature stays consistent. If you’re curious about frying alternatives, see how we handle crisp textures in our Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole.

Step 5: Drain and Toss in Sauce

Once fried, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps soak up any excess oil and keeps the crust crisp. While still warm, place the fried tenders in a clean bowl and pour the Bang Bang sauce over them. Gently toss until every piece is evenly coated. The sauce clings beautifully to the panko coating and creates that signature creamy-spicy flavor bomb.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

For the final touch, sprinkle chopped parsley over the sauced chicken for a bit of freshness and color. Serve immediately while it’s hot and crispy. Pair it with rice, inside lettuce wraps, or as a game-day appetizer. For a cozy dinner night, it’s great alongside our Shrimp Casserole or Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Orzo.

And there you have it—your Bang Bang Chicken, step by step, made simple, satisfying, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family, entertaining guests, or just craving something that hits all the right notes, this recipe’s got your back.

What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken

Pairing Bang Bang Chicken is almost too easy because this dish plays well with others. For a lighter touch, try serving it over a bed of shredded cabbage or romaine—think of it like a spicy chicken salad. If you’re craving comfort, white rice or jasmine rice soaks up that sauce beautifully. Got leftover panko? Throw together some quick Crispy Chicken Crescent Bake on the side. For something more noodle-y, Cantonese Chow Mein balances the sweetness and heat with savory stir-fry vibes. Don’t forget a cold drink—this chicken loves a bubbly soda or a chilled glass of sweet tea. And if you’re feeding a crowd, a Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole makes the perfect sidekick.

Key Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

Here’s the deal—Bang Bang Chicken is straightforward, but a few small tips make it foolproof. First, don’t skip the marinade. Even 10 minutes in that buttermilk mix helps the chicken turn out juicy. Second, use a thermometer if you can when frying. Too low and you’ll get soggy chicken; too high and it scorches. Third, coat the chicken in breadcrumbs right before frying so they don’t get soggy sitting on the counter. And that sauce? Make it your own. Add extra honey if you like it sweeter or more Sriracha if you’re feeling bold. Finally, fry in batches so your oil temp stays steady. Crowding the pan = sad, soggy crust. Keep it crispy, friends.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Bang Bang Chicken

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Bang Bang Chicken stores surprisingly well. Place any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you know ahead of time you’ll have leftovers, store the fried chicken and sauce separately—that way the crust stays crispy. To reheat, pop the chicken into a 375°F oven or air fryer for about 8–10 minutes. Avoid the microwave unless you’re okay with a soggy finish (been there). For freezing, skip the sauce—just freeze the breaded, cooked chicken on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven and toss in fresh sauce. Easy peasy.

FAQs

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken in the air fryer?
Absolutely. Just spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray and air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Is Bang Bang Chicken spicy?
It’s got a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat by using more or less Sriracha. Leave out the cayenne if serving kids.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes! Just cut them into strips. They’ll work just fine.

Is there a dairy-free option for the marinade?
Swap the buttermilk with almond milk and a teaspoon of vinegar for a quick fix.

Can I bake this instead of frying?
Sure thing. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is the kind of recipe that checks all the boxes: easy, comforting, crowd-friendly, and adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for your picky 5-year-old or feeding friends during Sunday football, this dish brings a little sizzle to your weeknight routine. Don’t be surprised if it earns a regular spot on your meal rotation. Want more easy comfort dishes? Check out our Savory Chicken Parmesan Casserole or Shrimp Casserole for more weeknight wonders. Now go on—grab that skillet, whip up that sauce, and get ready to hear, “Can you make that chicken again?”

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