The first time I made this crispy bang bang chicken, my kitchen filled with the most incredible aroma of sweet and spicy goodness! My husband walked in asking what smelled so amazing, and my daughter was practically drooling before it even hit the table. This recipe combines perfectly crispy chicken with that addictive sweet chili sauce that makes everything better.
You'll love how simple ingredients create restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen. It's become our go-to when we need quick dinner ideas that actually excite the whole family.
Why You'll Love This Bang Bang Chicken
This crispy bang bang chicken recipe delivers everything you crave in the perfect chicken dinner! The coating gets incredibly crunchy while the chicken stays juicy and tender inside. My sister tried making this after I shared it, and now it's her family's most-requested meal.
The sweet chili sauce creates this perfect balance of heat and sweetness that even my picky eaters can't resist. It's one of those chicken dishes recipes that works as a main course or appetizer. Plus, you can make it in the air fryer or on the stovetop, making it perfect for any kitchen setup.
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What You'll Need
These simple ingredients transform ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. I love how this recipe uses pantry staples to create that signature bang bang flavor everyone adores.
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Extras
Add some fresh cilantro for garnish, sesame seeds for crunch, or extra sriracha if you like more heat. Serve over rice for a complete chicken bowl experience.
This crispy bang bang chicken is super easy - full steps are in the recipe card.
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Prep the Chicken Pieces
Cut your chicken thighs into uniform bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch chunks. Season with salt and pepper. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
Create the Coating Station
Set up three bowls: flour mixed with cornstarch in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs in the third. This triple coating creates that perfect crispy texture.
Make Bang Bang Sauce
Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and minced garlic until smooth. Taste and adjust the heat level to your preference by adding more sriracha or honey.
Coat the Chicken
Dredge each chicken piece in flour mixture, then egg wash, then panko breadcrumbs. Press the coating gently to help it stick. Place coated pieces on a wire rack while you finish the rest.
Can I make this in the air fryer? Absolutely! Cook at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The air fryer creates incredibly crispy results with less oil than traditional frying.
Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat oil to 350°F and fry chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Don't overcrowd the pan. Drain on paper towels briefly.
Toss in Sauce
While the chicken is still hot, toss it gently with the bang bang sauce until each piece is coated. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately.
Aliana's Pro Tip
The secret to extra crispy chicken is double-dipping! After your first coating, let the pieces sit for 5 minutes, then dip them back in the egg wash and breadcrumbs again.
My mom taught me this technique when we were perfecting our fried chicken recipes together.
Also, make sure your oil temperature stays consistent - too low and the coating gets greasy, too high and it burns before the chicken cooks through.
Trust me, a candy thermometer is your best friend for this recipe.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftover bang bang chicken in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness, or use a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes. The coating stays much crispier than microwaving.
Follow Aliana on Pinterest →What to Serve With Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
This chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or even over fresh greens for a chicken bowl. My family loves it with roasted vegetables and egg rolls for a complete Asian-inspired dinner. It also makes an amazing appetizer for game day or parties.
FAQs About Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs stay more tender and juicy. If using breast, don't overcook and consider pounding them slightly thinner first.
What's the best oil for frying?
Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work best because of their high smoke points and neutral flavors.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The bang bang sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
How spicy is this recipe?
It's moderately spicy with a sweet balance. You can adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the sriracha in the sauce.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you're craving more crispy chicken Dinner recipes, these family favorites never disappoint:
Honey Garlic Chicken Bites - sweet, sticky, and absolutely addictive Crispy Orange Chicken - better than takeout and ready in 30 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Dip - perfect for parties and game day gatherings
These chicken dishes recipes always get rave reviews because they combine comfort food flavors with that satisfying crunch we all love.
Tried this recipe? Tag me on Pinterest @AlianaRecipes - I'd love to see your twist on it!
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe:
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