Crispy Bang Bang Chicken | Easy Homemade Recipe

If you love crispy, flavorful chicken with a kick of heat and a touch of sweetness, then Bang Bang Chicken is the dish for you. This popular recipe combines juicy chicken tenders coated in a golden, crunchy batter, then tossed in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that makes every bite irresistible.

Originating as a restaurant favorite, this dish has quickly become a must-try at home thanks to its simple preparation and bold flavors. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, Bang Bang Chicken delivers on taste and presentation every single time.

The best part? You can adjust the level of spice and sweetness to suit your taste, making it a versatile recipe that appeals to both spice lovers and those who prefer a milder bite. It’s quick to prepare, deliciously crispy, and guaranteed to impress anyone at the table.

General Benefits of Bang Bang Chicken

1. Crispy Texture & Juicy Inside

   • The double coating and frying method ensure the perfect crunch while keeping the chicken tender.

2. Flavor Explosion

   • Combines sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors in one dish.

3. Customizable Heat Level

   • Easily adjust the sauce to be mild or extra spicy.

4. Restaurant-Style at Home

   • Brings the flavors of popular restaurant dishes into your kitchen.

5. Versatile Serving Options

   • Serve as an appetizer, party snack, or main course with sides.

6. Crowd-Pleasing

   • A hit with both kids (milder version) and adults (spicier version).

7. Quick Cooking

   • Ready in under 40 minutes, making it weeknight-friendly.

Nutritional Benefits

• Chicken Breast/Tenders: Lean source of protein, helps with muscle growth and repair.

• Spices & Chili Sauce: Provides antioxidants and metabolism-boosting benefits.

• Greek Yogurt or Mayo (for sauce): Adds creaminess, healthy fats, and probiotics (if yogurt is used).

• Cornstarch/Batter: Helps achieve crispiness without heavy breading.

While it’s an indulgent dish, it can be made healthier by air frying instead of deep frying, and using light mayo or yogurt for the sauce.

Ingredients Table

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Chicken

   • Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.

   • Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

2. Coat the Chicken

   • Beat eggs in one bowl and place cornstarch in another.

   • Dip chicken pieces in egg, then dredge in cornstarch until fully coated.

3. Fry Until Crispy

   • Heat oil in a deep skillet or pan.

   • Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes).

   • Place on paper towels to remove excess oil.

4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

   • In a bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), and sriracha (if using).

   • Adjust to taste for sweetness or heat.

5. Coat the Chicken

   • Toss crispy chicken pieces in the sauce until evenly coated.

6. Serve

   • Plate hot, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, and serve with extra sauce on the side.

Variations and Creative Twists

1. Air-Fryer Version

   • Coat chicken lightly with oil spray and cook in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.

2. Spicy Lover’s Edition

   • Add extra sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

3. Lighter Version

   • Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a tangier, lighter sauce.

4. Bang Bang Shrimp

   • Swap chicken for shrimp to make the popular seafood version.

5. Asian-Inspired Bowl

   • Serve chicken over steamed rice with broccoli for a full meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks as party finger food.

• Main Course: Pair with rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.

• Taco Style: Use as filling for soft tortillas with lettuce and slaw.

• Salad Topper: Slice and place over a fresh green salad.

• Dipping Fun: Keep extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken is the ultimate crispy and saucy comfort food. The crunch of golden-fried chicken combined with the sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce makes it a recipe worth repeating.

It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or party appetizers. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.