Craving a burst of bold flavors? Dive into the world of Bang Bang Chicken, a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to excite your taste buds. This crispy, golden chicken is paired with a sweet chili sauce that’s the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main dish, Bang Bang Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients List
Chicken Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 3 cups vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Sweet Chili Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons Frank’s Hot Sauce
Preparing the Chicken
To start, gather all your ingredients and kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process much smoother and more enjoyable.
Mixing the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. This mixture will serve as the flavorful coating that gives our chicken its crispy texture. Make sure the batter is smooth and well combined.
Preparing the Chicken Chunks
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch chunks. This size is perfect for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy. Once cut, dip each chicken chunk into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Coating with Panko
Next, roll each battered chicken piece in Panko breadcrumbs. The Panko adds an extra layer of crunch that makes Bang Bang Chicken irresistible. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
Frying the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated chicken chunks into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Making the Sweet Chili Sauce
Now that we have our crispy chicken ready, it’s time to prepare the star of the show: the sweet chili sauce. This sauce brings the perfect blend of sweetness, tang, and heat that makes Bang Bang Chicken so addictive.
Mixing the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, and Frank’s Hot Sauce. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. The mayonnaise adds a rich texture, while the sweet chili sauce and honey provide sweetness, and Frank’s Hot Sauce brings the heat. Adjust the quantities to taste if you prefer a sweeter or spicier sauce.
Coating the Chicken
Once the sauce is ready, it’s time to coat the fried chicken chunks. You have two options here: you can either toss the chicken in the sauce to coat each piece evenly or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Tossing the chicken in the sauce will give you that signature Bang Bang Chicken look and flavor, but if you prefer to keep the chicken extra crispy, serving the sauce on the side is a great alternative.
Garnishing
For a finishing touch, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the sauced chicken. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that complements the dish perfectly. Your Bang Bang Chicken is now ready to be served!
Serving Bang Bang Chicken
Now that our Bang Bang Chicken is perfectly coated in that delicious sweet chili sauce, it’s time to think about serving and presentation. This step ensures your dish not only tastes amazing but also looks appetizing.
Serving Suggestions
Bang Bang Chicken can be served in various ways depending on the occasion. Here are a few suggestions to make your dish shine:
- Appetizer Platter: Arrange the chicken pieces on a large platter and garnish with extra parsley. Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing, making it a perfect party appetizer.
- Main Dish: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh green salad. The contrast between the crispy chicken and the fresh vegetables or fluffy rice is delightful.
- Tacos or Wraps: For a fun twist, use the Bang Bang Chicken as a filling for tacos or wraps. Add some shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a quick and tasty meal.
Accompaniments
To complement the flavors of Bang Bang Chicken, consider serving it with a few tasty accompaniments:
- Fresh Veggies: Sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, and carrot sticks provide a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Dipping Sauces: In addition to the sweet chili sauce, you can offer other dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy sriracha mayo for variety.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled vegetables add a tangy contrast to the sweet and spicy chicken, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Presentation Tips
When it comes to presenting your Bang Bang Chicken, a little extra effort goes a long way. Here are some tips to make your dish visually appealing:
- Use a Clean Plate: Make sure your serving platter or plate is spotless before arranging the chicken. A clean plate enhances the overall presentation.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: Besides parsley, you can use sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra touch of color and flavor.
- Neat Arrangement: Arrange the chicken pieces neatly, either in a single layer or in a visually pleasing pattern. This makes the dish look more appetizing and professional.
Storing and Reheating Bang Bang Chicken
If you have leftovers or want to prepare Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time, proper storage and reheating are key to maintaining its deliciousness.
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Bang Bang Chicken fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Cool Completely: Allow the chicken to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from making the chicken soggy.
- Airtight Containers: Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Refrigeration: Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 1 month.
Reheating Bang Bang Chicken
To enjoy Bang Bang Chicken again, proper reheating is essential to keep it crispy and delicious.
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 5-7 minutes, or until hot and crispy.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook, turning occasionally, until heated through and crispy.
Freezing and Thawing
If you’re freezing Bang Bang Chicken, follow these steps for the best results:
- Freeze Quickly: Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Thaw Properly: Thaw the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This helps maintain the texture and flavor.
Final Touches
When reheating, you may want to prepare a fresh batch of the sweet chili sauce to toss the chicken in or serve on the side. This ensures the sauce is vibrant and full of flavor.
By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy Bang Bang Chicken anytime without compromising on its delightful taste and texture.
Conclusion
Mastering the Bang Bang Chicken recipe opens up a world of bold flavors and satisfying crunch. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual meal, this dish is sure to impress. Remember, the key to perfect Bang Bang Chicken lies in the crispy coating, flavorful sauce, and thoughtful presentation. With proper storage techniques, you can savor the deliciousness of Bang Bang Chicken even on busy days. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish that brings excitement to any table.
Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who love a good culinary adventure!