Crispy Bang Bang Chicken features golden, crunchy chicken bites tossed in a creamy, sweet-spicy sauce, perfect for a fun and flavorful meal that kids and adults will love.

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: What Is It?

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a fun and flavorful dish that’s crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce. It’s the kind of meal that makes you excited to take your first bite, with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that kids and adults alike can enjoy. The “bang bang” sauce is usually made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a little kick of sriracha, giving the chicken that signature bold flavor.

What to Eat with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its bold flavors. Serve it over steamed rice or fried rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Fresh, crunchy vegetables like cucumber slices, shredded cabbage, or carrot sticks balance the richness of the chicken. You can also enjoy it with Copycat Baja Chipotle Sauce, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to create a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional for extra sweetness)

how to make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken. Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk to create an egg wash. In another bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper.
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash first, then coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes depending on the size of the pieces. Remove the chicken and place on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
While the chicken is frying, prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
Once all the chicken pieces are fried, place them in a large mixing bowl and pour the sauce over them. Gently toss the chicken to coat every piece evenly with the creamy, spicy sauce.
Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and crispy. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch if desired.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large skillet or deep fryer
Medium and small mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Wire rack or paper towels for draining
Tongs or slotted spoon

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to help the chicken regain some crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crunch, but it’s fine for a quick warm-up. Do not store with sauce if you prefer it crispy; add the sauce right before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and slightly more flavorful, but make sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces for even cooking.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on how much sriracha you use. Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to taste. Kids may prefer less spice.

Can I bake instead of frying?

You can bake the chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and crispy. Coat with a little oil to help with browning.

Is the sauce gluten-free?

Yes, if you ensure the sweet chili sauce you use is gluten-free. The chicken coating would need to be adjusted with gluten-free flour and cornstarch.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving for the best texture.

Can I use this recipe for meal prep?

Yes, fry the chicken and store separately from the sauce. Assemble when ready to eat for optimal crispiness.

What sides go best with Bang Bang Chicken?

Steamed rice, fried rice, garlic noodles, or fresh salad are great options. Crunchy vegetables also balance the richness.

Can I make this dish less oily?

Baking the chicken instead of frying reduces oil. You can also use an air fryer for a healthier, crispy alternative.

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is an irresistible, crunchy, and saucy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s simple enough to make at home but tastes like it came from a restaurant. Try serving it with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad, and don’t forget to garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for that extra flair. If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with friends and family and subscribe to the blog for more tasty and fun recipes!