Name: Bang Bang Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian-American
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Oil, for frying (canola or vegetable); ½ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha (more or less to taste); 1 tablespoon honey; Chopped chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)

Crispy, golden, and absolutely addictive, Bang Bang Chicken is everything you want in a bold appetizer or crowd-pleasing main dish. Each bite delivers crunch and juiciness, cloaked in a sweet-and-spicy creamy sauce that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re planning game night snacks or a family-style dinner, these crispy tenders bring the heat and the crave-worthy flavor.

The magic of Bang Bang Chicken lies in its double-coated crispiness and the signature sauce: a silky blend of mayo, chili sauce, sriracha, and a kiss of honey. It’s zesty, creamy, slightly tangy, and with the perfect kick of heat. You can drizzle it, dunk it, or toss the chicken pieces entirely for that sticky, glossy finish you see in your favorite takeout.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

For that perfect juicy bite, boneless skinless chicken thighs are the top pick. They hold moisture well and fry up tender, but if you’re looking for leaner cuts, chicken breast works just fine too. Just make sure your pieces are evenly sized for uniform cooking. And yes, you can even try this with cauliflower or tofu for a plant-based spin!

Ingredients for the Bang Bang Chicken

Chicken Thighs or Breasts – Tender, juicy, and perfect for soaking up flavor. Cut them into bite-sized chunks or strips depending on your serving style.

Cornstarch & All-Purpose Flour – This dynamic duo makes the chicken super crispy, creating a golden crust that doesn’t go soggy once sauced.

Buttermilk – It helps tenderize the chicken and allows the flour mix to stick better. Sub with milk + a splash of vinegar if needed.

Egg – Binds the coating for that luscious crunchy exterior.

Seasonings (Garlic powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper) – These bring flavor to the coating so every bite is bold even before saucing.

Oil for Frying – Go for neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable.

Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise, Sweet Chili Sauce, Sriracha, Honey – The heart of the dish! Creamy, sweet, spicy, and tangy all in one perfect drizzle.

Chives or Green Onions (Optional) – For garnish and a pop of freshness.

How To Make the Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into evenly sized chunks or strips. In a bowl, mix the chicken with buttermilk, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge) to soak in flavor and tenderize.

Step 2: Coat for the Crispiest Crunch

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, and a little salt. Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the dry mix, pressing firmly so the coating sticks well.

Step 3: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked inside. Drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.

Step 4: Mix the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. Adjust heat to taste—more sriracha for spice lovers, more honey for a milder kick.

Step 5: Sauce and Serve

You can toss the crispy chicken directly in the sauce for that full glossy finish or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little more heat.

How to Serve and Store Bang Bang Chicken

Serve Bang Bang Chicken fresh and hot right after frying to enjoy the ultimate crispy crunch. It’s perfect as an appetizer with a side of sauce for dipping or served over jasmine rice, noodles, or even tucked into wraps or tacos for a full meal. Add a refreshing slaw or cucumber salad to balance the richness.

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain that crispy texture—avoid microwaving if you want to keep the coating crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Sauce made of?

The classic version combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. It’s creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy—all in one delicious drizzle.

Can I bake or air fry the chicken instead of deep frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes. Flip halfway through and spray lightly with oil for extra crispiness.

Is Bang Bang Chicken spicy?

It has a mild to moderate kick, depending on how much sriracha you add. Feel free to tone it down or amp it up to match your heat preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and marinate the chicken ahead, but it’s best to fry just before serving. Pre-fried pieces can be reheated in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Rice bowls, lettuce wraps, coleslaw, garlic noodles, or a crisp Asian cucumber salad are all amazing pairings.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and coating to ensure a crispy result.

Want More Chicken Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving this crispy, saucy Bang Bang Chicken, here are more flavor-packed recipes to explore next:

Try the Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a cozy, rich meal that satisfies every craving. Garlic Butter Chicken with Ricotta Alfredo
These Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Butter Chicken Bites are a nostalgic twist on comfort food. Cafeteria Noodles with Garlic Chicken
For something with a spicy-sweet balance, go for the Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet. Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken
This Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine delivers big flavor with every bite. Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine
Or spice up your pasta game with the One Skillet Sweet Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta. Sticky Chicken Pasta

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner or appetizer board so you can come back to it anytime: Life with Nina on Pinterest.

And don’t forget to share your version in the comments! Did you dunk or drizzle the sauce? Try it in a taco or bowl? I’d love to hear your spin.

Got a question? Ask away. Cooking is always better when we learn together!

Bang Bang Chicken

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 1x
Category: Appetizer or Main Dish
Method: Frying
Cuisine: Asian-American

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Description

This crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe is a knockout appetizer or dinner option with golden fried bites tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce made from mayo, chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. It’s bold, easy to make, and perfect for dipping, drizzling, or tossing.