Introduction to Bang Bang Chicken
If you're a young professional juggling work, social plans, and the occasional Netflix binge, you know the struggle of finding quick, delicious meals that won't break the bank. Bang bang chicken emerges as a fantastic answer to your dinner dilemma. It’s not only mouthwatering but also quick to whip up! In just around 45 minutes—25 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking—you can create a satisfying dish that serves 4 to 6.
What truly sets bang bang chicken apart is its perfect balance of crunch and creaminess, along with a kick of heat from Sriracha. Tossed in a tangy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and just the right amount of Sriracha, this dish will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, you can easily customize it—add your favorite sides or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
For more quick meal ideas, consider checking out sources like The Kitchn or Cooking Light to expand your culinary repertoire. So, if you’re ready to impress friends or simply treat yourself to a delightful homemade dish, dive into our bang bang chicken recipe and make your taste buds sing!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken
Essential Ingredients You'll Need
Creating delicious Bang Bang Chicken starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the dish:
- ½ cup mayonnaise: This adds a creamy base that balances the heat.
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce: For that perfect hint of sweetness.
- 5 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce: Use more or less depending on your heat preference.
- 2 large eggs and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for coating the chicken.
- 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs: These make the coating extra crispy.
- 1 ¾ teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth and aroma.
- 1 ¾ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces.
- 1 cup neutral oil (vegetable or canola): For frying.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
Want to kick your Bang Bang Chicken up a notch? Consider the following optional enhancements:
- Thinly sliced scallions: They add a fresh crunch and color.
- Sesame seeds: Sprinkling some on top gives a delightful touch.
- Substitutes and Variations: Try using chicken ham instead of chicken for a richer flavor or turkey bacon for a smoky kick.
By customizing your dish with these extra ingredients, you’ll surely create a Bang Bang Chicken that’ll impress any crowd. Curious about more fun variations? Check out this resource for tasty ideas!
Preparing Bang Bang Chicken
Creating bang bang chicken at home is not only satisfying but incredibly rewarding. With a crunchy exterior and a spicy-sweet sauce that’s impossible to resist, this recipe is perfect for a casual dinner or even a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into the steps and discover how to make this delicious dish!
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
The heart of bang bang chicken is its signature sauce, which is both creamy and zesty. To whip up this flavor bomb, start by combining:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 4 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce
Stir these ingredients together in a large bowl until well blended. Take half of this heavenly sauce and transfer it to a small bowl for dipping later. Trust me, this extra sauce is essential for those who crave a little more kick with each bite!
Prepare the Chicken
Next, it's all about the chicken. You’ll be working with 1 ¾ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces. Season these little morsels with ¾ teaspoon kosher salt to elevate their flavor. This simple step will make a world of difference and ensure your chicken isn’t bland.
Dredge in Egg and Panko
Now it’s time to add that delectable crunch! In a medium shallow bowl, whisk together:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- The remaining 1 teaspoon of Sriracha
In another bowl, mix 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs with 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. The panko will give your chicken the perfect crispy exterior, while the garlic powder adds another layer of flavor.
Take each piece of seasoned chicken, dunk it in the egg mixture, and then generously coat it in the panko. Place the coated pieces on a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crunch.
Fry the Chicken to Perfection
Heat 1 cup of neutral oil—like vegetable or canola—in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Carefully add about 8 pieces of chicken at a time to the hot oil. Fry them for 3 to 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden and cooked all the way through. Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Coat the Chicken with Sauce
Finally, take your freshly fried chicken and toss it in the bowl of prepared bang bang sauce. Make sure every piece is well-coated. If you're feeling fancy, garnish with thinly sliced scallions for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve with the extra sauce on the side—it's perfect for dipping! This homemade bang bang chicken is sure to impress friends and family alike, and you’ll find it’s a staple in your recipe repertoire in no time.
For more detailed cooking tips, you might be interested in resources like Serious Eats or Food & Wine for further culinary inspiration!
Variations on Bang Bang Chicken
Spicy Bang Bang Chicken
If you're all about the heat, try adding extra Sriracha to your bang bang chicken sauce! This variation not only amps up the spice level but brings a delightful kick that spicy food lovers will cherish. Consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for additional flavor that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Cooking experts often advise pairing spicy dishes with a cool side, like creamy coleslaw or a yogurt dip, to create that perfect balance.
Bang Bang Chicken Tacos
Feeling adventurous? Use your bang bang chicken as a filling for soft tacos! Simply chop the fried chicken pieces, toss them in the signature sauce, and load them into warm corn or flour tortillas. Top with fresh avocado, crunchy cabbage, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh twist. Taco night will never be the same! For more inspiration, check out Serious Eats for tasty taco ideas that’ll elevate your weekday meals.
Cooking Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
Achieving the Perfect Crispiness
To get that perfectly crispy coating on your bang bang chicken, ensure your oil is at the right temperature—about 350°F is ideal. If it's too hot, the outside will cook too fast while the inside remains raw; too cold, and you’ll end up with soggy chicken. Fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding, allowing each piece to fry evenly.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider baking or air frying your bang bang chicken. For baking, preheat your oven to 425°F, coat the chicken with oil, and spread it on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. In the air fryer, cook at 400°F for roughly 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. This way, you’ll still get that delightful crunch without the excess oil.
For more variations on cooking methods, check out The Kitchn for practical tips!
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken
Pairing with Side Dishes
When it comes to enjoying your Bang Bang Chicken, think about refreshing and complementary side dishes. Here are a few fantastic options:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Consider a medley of bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli for a vibrant, colorful plate.
- Asian Noodle Salad: With sesame dressing, it adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to the tender chicken.
For beverage pairings, a chilled iced green tea or a citrus lemonade is perfect to balance the heat.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Presentation is key to enticing your palate. Here are some fun ways to serve your Bang Bang Chicken:
- Skewers: Serve the chicken pieces on bamboo skewers for easy handling and a touch of flair.
- Platter Style: Arrange the chicken on a large platter, drizzling the sauce over the top and garnishing with sliced scallions for visual appeal.
- Bowl Meal: Create a stunning bowl by layering jasmine rice, topped with the chicken, and fresh veggies for a balanced meal.
Don't forget to check out this guide on food styling for more ideas!
Time Breakdown for Bang Bang Chicken
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Get ready to dive into this delicious dish by gathering your ingredients and prepping the chicken. A little organization goes a long way!
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Once everything is prepped, it’s time to fry your chicken to a golden perfection. Keep an eye on those pieces for optimal crunch!
Total time: 45 minutes
In just under an hour, you can serve up a mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken that’s sure to impress your friends or family. What’s better than a meal that looks as good as it tastes?
If you want an even deeper dive into the Bang Bang Chicken recipe, check out this comprehensive cooking guide. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Bang Bang Chicken
When you're whipping up a delicious batch of Bang Bang Chicken, it's essential to keep an eye on the nutritional content. Here’s a quick rundown of the key figures:
Calories
One serving of Bang Bang Chicken contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying choice without being overly indulgent.
Protein
With around 30 grams of protein per serving, this dish is a fantastic way to meet your daily protein needs. It's perfect for those looking to fuel their active lifestyle.
Sodium
The sodium content is about 800 mg per serving. While it's wise to watch your intake, a little salt enhances the dish's overall flavor—isn’t that what makes these recipes memorable?
This crispy, tangy delight is a balance of flavor, nutrition, and satisfaction, perfect for a casual dinner or a fun weekend meal. For more detailed nutritional insights, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central for a comprehensive breakdown. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken
How can I make Bang Bang Chicken healthier?
Looking to lighten up your Bang Bang Chicken? There are several ways to do just that! Consider baking instead of frying for a lower-fat option. Simply spray the coated chicken pieces with cooking spray and bake them at 400°F until golden. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the sauce, giving it a tangy twist while cutting calories. Using whole-grain breadcrumbs can add fiber, helping you stay satisfied longer.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken pieces and coat them ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge, and when you're ready, fry them fresh for the best texture. The sauce can also be made a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator. This way, dinner is quicker and easier, making your weeknight meals a breeze.
What's the best way to store leftovers?
If you find yourself with tasty Bang Bang Chicken leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. When rewarming, consider using an oven or an air fryer to retain that crispy goodness instead of the microwave, which can make them soggy. Enjoy those delicious bites again!
For more tips and insights on healthier cooking, check out EatingWell’s Guide.
Conclusion on Bang Bang Chicken
Bang Bang Chicken is not just a meal; it's an experience! With its crispy texture and spicy sauce, this dish will delight your taste buds and impress your friends. It's perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Try this recipe, and you may just find a new family favorite! For more delicious ideas, check out other savory recipes here.
Bang Bang Chicken
Equipment
- Large bowl
- medium shallow bowl or pie plate
- second shallow bowl or pie plate
- large high-sided skillet
- rimmed baking sheet
- Wire rack
Ingredients
Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 5 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce divided
Chicken Coating
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 ¾ teaspoons kosher salt divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ¾ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup neutral oil such as vegetable or canola
Garnish
- thinly sliced scallions for serving (optional)
Instructions
Making Sauce
- Stir ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, and 4 teaspoons of the Sriracha together in a large bowl. Transfer half of the sauce to a small bowl for serving.
Preparing Coating
- Whisk the remaining 1 teaspoon Sriracha, 2 large eggs, and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour together in a medium shallow bowl or pie plate. Stir 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder together in a second shallow bowl or pie plate.
Coating Chicken
- Season 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast pieces with the remaining ¾ teaspoon kosher salt. Working with a few pieces at a time, add the chicken to the egg mixture, turn to coat, then transfer to the panko mixture. Gently press and flip the chicken into the panko mixture until completely coated. Place on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer.
Frying Chicken
- Heat 1 cup neutral oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium heat until 350°F. Line a second baking sheet with a wire rack and/or paper towels. Fry about 8 pieces of chicken at a time: Add to the hot oil and fry, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and golden-brown all over, 3 to 5 minutes total. Transfer to the rack or paper towels.
Serving
- Transfer the chicken to the large bowl of sauce and toss until coated. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions if using. Serve with the remaining sauce drizzled on the top or on the side for dipping.
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