Save
This crispy Bang Bang Chicken has transformed ordinary chicken tenders into a crave-worthy dish that combines crunchy texture with sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. The panko coating creates the perfect crunch while the homemade bang bang sauce delivers an irresistible flavor combination that keeps everyone coming back for more.
I first made this Bang Bang Chicken for a game day gathering, and it disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. Now my friends specifically request "that amazing crispy chicken with the special sauce" whenever we get together.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenderloins: Provide the perfect size for even cooking and easy eating
- Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken while helping the coating adhere
- Panko breadcrumbs: Create a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs
- Thai sweet chili sauce: Adds the signature sweet heat to the bang bang sauce
- Sriracha: Delivers customizable spice level that you can adjust to your preference
- Cornstarch mixed with flour: Creates an ultra crispy exterior when fried
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a small bowl. The sauce should be creamy with visible flecks of red chili. Make this first so the flavors have time to meld while you prepare the chicken.
- Create the Batter:
- Whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, and seasonings until smooth. The consistency should be like a thick pancake batter. This multifunctional mixture acts as both a marinade and batter, infusing flavor while creating the base for the crispy coating.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dip each chicken tenderloin in the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs. Ensure complete coverage with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. The double coating system creates the perfect crunch factor.
- Fry to Golden Perfection:
- Heat oil to exactly 365°F as measured with a thermometer. Fry chicken in small batches for 2-3 minutes per side until deeply golden and crisp. Maintaining the correct oil temperature prevents greasy chicken and ensures proper cooking.
- Sauce and Serve:
- Toss the fried chicken with the prepared bang bang sauce while still warm. The heat helps the sauce cling to every crevice of the crispy coating, creating the perfect flavor-texture combination.
Save
The Thai sweet chili sauce is truly the magic ingredient in this recipe. I discovered it years ago at an Asian market and now keep it stocked in my pantry at all times. The complex flavor it brings to the bang bang sauce simply cannot be replicated with other ingredients.
Temperature Matters
Maintaining consistent oil temperature is crucial for perfect Bang Bang Chicken. Too hot and the coating burns before the chicken cooks through. Too cool and the chicken absorbs excess oil, becoming greasy. Use a thermometer and adjust your heat as needed throughout the cooking process to maintain 365°F. Allow the oil to return to temperature between batches for consistent results.
Make-Ahead Options
Prepare the components separately for easy assembly later. The bang bang sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored refrigerated in an airtight container. The chicken can be breaded and refrigerated on a parchment-lined baking sheet for up to 4 hours before frying. Just let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before frying to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy chicken tenders work beautifully as an appetizer with the sauce drizzled over or served alongside for dipping. For a complete meal, pair with steamed jasmine rice and a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness. I also love serving these in lettuce wraps with additional sauce and julienned vegetables for a lighter option that still delivers all the flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I bake this Bang Bang Chicken instead of frying?
Yes! For a lighter version, you can bake the panko-crusted chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray before baking for extra crispiness.
- → How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?
The spice level is moderate with the amounts of Sriracha specified in the recipe. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less Sriracha to both the chicken coating and the sauce. The sweet chili sauce and honey help balance the heat.
- → Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This actually allows the flavors to meld together even better.
- → What sides pair well with Bang Bang Chicken?
This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, Asian slaw, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple green salad. For appetizer portions, serve with additional sauce on the side for dipping.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken breasts work well as a substitute. Simply cut them into strips about the size of tenderloins (roughly 1-inch wide strips). You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach 165°F internal temperature.
- → Is there a gluten-free version of this dish?
To make this gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. Also verify that your Thai sweet chili sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.