Description

Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy, golden-fried chicken dish tossed in a creamy, spicy, and sweet Bang Bang Sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Inspired by Sichuan cuisine but adapted for Western tastes, this dish is a global favorite. Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a family dinner.

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

1 cup mayonnaise
½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce
2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken:

1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
1 cup buttermilk
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups plain panko breadcrumbs
Canola oil for frying
Chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.

2. Whisk until smooth. Cover and set aside.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper until smooth.

4. Add the chicken tenderloins to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Let marinate for 10 minutes.

5. Place panko breadcrumbs on a plate.

6. Remove each chicken tender from the marinade and coat evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere.

7. Set coated chicken aside on a clean plate.

8. Heat canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat to 365°F.

9. Fry chicken tenders in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

10. Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

11. Toss the chicken tenders in the Bang Bang Sauce until evenly coated.

12. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Oil Temperature: Maintain frying oil at 365°F for the crispiest results.

Spicier Sauce: Add extra Sriracha or cayenne for more heat.

Healthier Option: Bake or air fry chicken instead of frying.