Imagine crispy bang bang chicken gracing your table, the aroma of spices wafting through the air.
As you bite into the golden crust, the juicy tenderness of the marinated chicken bursts with flavor.
The tangy, sweet, and spicy dipping sauce adds a delightful contrast, teasing your taste buds.
This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s an experience.
Ready to transform your kitchen into a culinary haven?
Let’s explore the secrets behind this mouthwatering creation.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Medium mixing bowl
- 1 Frying pan
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Tongs
- 1 Measuring cup
- 1 Measuring spoon set
- 1 Paper towel
Ingredients
- 500 grams chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time while preparing and cooking Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, follow this timeline:
- Preparation (20 minutes)
- 0:00 – 5:00: Gather all your ingredients and equipment.
- 5:00 – 10:00: In a large mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- 10:00 – 12:00: Cut the chicken breast into strips.
- 12:00 – 15:00: Add chicken strips to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated.
- 15:00 – 20:00: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
- Marination (15 minutes)
- During this time, prepare the bang bang sauce and heat the oil.
- 20:00 – 25:00: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha sauce until smooth.
- 25:00 – 30:00: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Cooking (15 minutes)
- 30:00 – 35:00: Dredge marinated chicken strips in all-purpose flour, shaking off excess.
- 35:00 – 45:00: Carefully place chicken strips in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove them from the oil onto a paper towel-lined plate.
- Resting & Serving (5 minutes)
- 45:00 – 50:00: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes for flavors to set.
- 50:00: Drizzle bang bang sauce over crispy chicken and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Recipe
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a delicious Asian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken strips with a spicy and sweet sauce, perfect for those who love bold flavors.
The dish is characterized by its crispy exterior, achieved by frying marinated chicken strips until golden brown.
The chicken is then drizzled with a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
This recipe isn’t only quick to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that can be served as a main course or as an appetizer at gatherings.
To attain the perfect crispy texture, the chicken is first marinated in a seasoned buttermilk mixture, which adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
After marinating, the strips are dredged in flour and fried to a golden crisp.
The bang bang sauce is easy to make and adds a vibrant touch to the dish.
Garnishing with chopped green onions not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.
Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its combination of textures and flavors.
To prepare Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, start by combining buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.
Add chicken strips and coat them well, then let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha sauce to make the bang bang sauce.
Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
Dredge the marinated chicken strips in flour, making certain excess flour is shaken off.
Fry the chicken in the hot oil until both sides are golden brown and crispy, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
Drain the chicken on a paper towel-lined plate and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the crispy chicken and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
For the crispiest result, confirm that the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken strips.
This prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
Use a thermometer to check that the oil is around 350°F (175°C) before frying.
Additionally, serve the chicken immediately after the resting period to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
If you prefer a spicier dish, adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to taste.
Cooking Steps
Begin by whisking together a fragrant marinade of buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl, letting the spices bloom in the creamy base.
Submerge the chicken strips in this flavorful bath, ensuring each piece is generously coated, then allow them to rest in the fridge, absorbing the aromatic blend.
While the chicken marinates, whisk the tangy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and fiery sriracha until smooth, and preheat your oil to a sizzling 375°F for the perfect crispy finish.
Step 1. Combine Marinade in Bowl
Start by gathering your ingredients and focusing on the rich flavors that will soon envelop your chicken.
Picture the creamy buttermilk mingling with smoky paprika, aromatic garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
In your large mixing bowl, these ingredients will create a marinade that promises to infuse your chicken with depth and warmth.
As you measure and pour, let your senses savor each scent and hue, anticipating the transformation.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt & Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon each |
With a whisk, blend them into a harmonious mixture, envisioning the tender embrace each strip of chicken will soon receive.
Your culinary journey is just beginning.
Step 2. Coat Chicken in Buttermilk Mixture
With your aromatic marinade ready, immerse each chicken strip into the buttermilk mixture, letting them bask in the flavorful blend.
The creamy, tangy buttermilk clings to the tender flesh, infusing it with a medley of spices.
As you submerge the chicken, guarantee each piece is thoroughly coated, creating a velvety layer that promises succulence.
In this step, pay attention to:
- Even Coating: Guarantee each strip is equally enveloped in buttermilk, maximizing flavor absorption.
- Gentle Tossing: Use your tongs to gently turn the strips, preventing any tear in the meat.
- Complete Submersion: Make sure the chicken is fully submerged for the ultimate marinade embrace.
- Sensory Check: Notice the subtle change in texture as the chicken absorbs the aromatic blend.
Your chicken is now primed for the next step.
Step 3. Refrigerate Chicken for Marinating
As you slide the bowl of coated chicken strips into the refrigerator, the cool air begins to work its magic, allowing the flavors to meld into the tender meat.
The buttermilk, infused with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, seeps into every crevice of the chicken, ensuring each bite bursts with savory goodness.
You can almost imagine the transformation taking place as the chill enhances the marinade’s penetration, making the chicken succulent and flavorful.
This brief respite in the fridge is essential; it gives the spices time to fully integrate, creating a harmonious blend of taste and aroma.
As you close the refrigerator door, you can anticipate the delightful contrast of crispy exterior and juicy interior that awaits once the frying begins.
Step 4. Mix Sauces Until Smooth
Whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha sauce in a medium mixing bowl, watching as the ingredients meld into a smooth, creamy concoction.
The vibrant hues blend seamlessly, creating a tantalizing swirl that promises a burst of flavor.
As you whisk, the aroma of the sweet and spicy elements drifts upwards, teasing your senses and heightening anticipation.
- Creamy Texture: Achieve a luscious consistency that clings elegantly to the chicken.
- Balanced Heat: Sriracha’s spice is tempered by the sweet chili’s gentle warmth.
- Visual Appeal: The sauce’s glossy sheen adds an inviting finish to the dish.
- Flavor Fusion: Experience a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and spicy notes.
This sauce will elevate your dish, adding flavor complexity and depth.
Step 5. Heat Oil to 375°F
To achieve the perfect crispy texture, begin by heating the vegetable oil to a precise 375°F.
Use a deep frying pan, pouring enough oil to submerge the chicken strips.
As the oil warms, you’ll notice it shimmering, a visual cue that it’s nearing the right temperature.
Use a thermometer to guarantee accuracy; the magic number is essential for that golden, crunchy crust.
Once the oil reaches 375°F, carefully lower the marinated chicken strips into the sizzling bath. You’ll hear a satisfying sizzle, a promise of crispiness to come.
As the chicken fries, the aroma will fill your kitchen, teasing your senses with savory anticipation.
Maintain the temperature to prevent the chicken from becoming greasy, guaranteeing each bite is delectably crispy.
Serving Tips
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant and fluffy accompaniment that complements the bold flavors of the bang bang chicken.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli adds vitality and nutrition to the meal.
- Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light sesame dressing, these noodles offer a nutty contrast to the spicy chicken.
- Cucumber Salad: A rejuvenating and crunchy salad that helps balance the heat of the dish.
- Lettuce Wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken for a fun and interactive dining experience.
Storage/Freezing/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover Crispy Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Verify the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to maintain its crispiness.
Freezing: To freeze, place cooled chicken strips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
Consume within 1 month for best taste.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes.
This method helps retain crispiness.
Avoid microwaving as it may result in soggy texture.
Final Thoughts
While savoring each bite of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, you’ll find the perfect harmony of flavors and textures that elevate this dish to a new level of delight.
The succulent chicken, enveloped in a golden, crunchy coating, offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce.
This dish is a sensory masterpiece, with every element thoughtfully crafted to tantalize your taste buds.
To fully enjoy, consider these tips:
- Serve immediately: Guarantees peak crispiness and flavor.
- Pair with cooling sides: Balance the heat with a revitalizing salad or steamed rice.
- Garnish generously: Fresh green onions provide a burst of color and aroma.
- Experiment with spice: Adjust the sriracha for your desired heat level.
You’ll relish every moment of this culinary journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Chicken?
You’re free to use different proteins like shrimp or tofu. Make certain it’s cut evenly for consistent cooking. Opt for shrimp’s sweet tenderness or tofu’s creamy texture, transforming the dish with unique flavors and delightful textural contrasts. Enjoy experimenting!
How Spicy Is the Bang Bang Sauce?
You’ll find the bang bang sauce delightfully spicy, with a harmonious blend of creamy mayonnaise, tangy sweet chili, and fiery sriracha. It invigorates your palate, delivering a lively kick that tingles without overwhelming your taste buds.
What Can I Serve as a Side Dish?
You might serve a revitalizing cucumber salad or fragrant jasmine rice to complement this dish. These sides balance the spice and offer contrasting textures, enhancing the overall sensory experience. Don’t forget a hint of lime zest!
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
You can swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour to maintain that delightful crunch. Make certain your buttermilk and sauces are gluten-free too. You’ll savor the same spicy, tangy flavor without compromising on texture or taste.
Can I Make This Dish in an Air Fryer?
You can absolutely use an air fryer for this dish. Preheat it, coat the marinated chicken in flour, and air fry until golden and crispy. You’ll enjoy a healthier version with the same succulent, flavorful bite.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 medium mixing bowl
- 1 Frying pan
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Tongs
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 measuring spoon set
- 1 paper towel
Ingredients
- 500 grams chicken breast cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 2 cups vegetable oil for frying
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken strips to the bowl and coat well with the buttermilk mixture.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha sauce until smooth.
- Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Dredge marinated chicken strips in all-purpose flour, shaking off excess.
- Carefully place chicken strips in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove chicken from oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes for flavors to set.
- Drizzle bang bang sauce over crispy chicken and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
