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Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is one of those dishes that delivers an irresistible combination of crunch, heat, and creamy sweetness. Inspired by popular restaurant versions, this homemade recipe is not only more budget-friendly but also healthier because you control every ingredient. With a perfectly seasoned coating, a golden crispy crust, and a bold, tangy sauce, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even party appetizers.

This recipe brings together two major crowd-pleasers: perfectly fried chicken and a smooth, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce. Together, they create a dish that is both comforting and exciting, offering layers of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a crowd-ready snack, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken always delivers.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, even for beginners
Crispy exterior with tender, juicy chicken inside
Bold, sweet, and spicy sauce that elevates every bite
Restaurant-quality flavor made at home for a fraction of the cost
Easy to customize, from spice level to breading options
Great for meal prepping, snacking, or entertaining guests

Ingredients Breakdown

Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise: Provides the base for the sauce, delivering creaminess and rich texture.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds sweetness and a subtle spicy flavor that balances the sauce beautifully.
Sriracha Sauce: Gives heat and depth; adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance.
Honey: Enhances sweetness and helps round out the flavors.

Crispy Chicken

Chicken Tenderloins: Naturally tender and quick-cooking; chicken breasts are a good alternative.
Buttermilk: Helps tenderize the chicken while allowing the coating to stick.
All-Purpose Flour: Creates the base structure for frying.
Cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness to the breading.
Egg: Helps bind the coating to the chicken.
Garlic Powder, Salt, Black Pepper, Cayenne: Build flavor in the breading mixture.
Panko Breadcrumbs: The key to achieving an airy, ultra-crispy coating.
Canola Oil: Ideal for frying due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point.

Garnish

Chopped Parsley: Optional, but adds color and freshness to the finished dish.

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Tips and Tricks

Use panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest possible texture. Traditional breadcrumbs can work but won’t give the same crunch.
Marinate for at least 10 minutes to help tenderize the chicken and improve flavor absorption.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. A temperature of around 365°F prevents the chicken from becoming greasy.
Fry in small batches to maintain consistent oil temperature. Overcrowding the pan leads to soggy coating.
Let the fried chicken rest on paper towels to remove excess oil without losing crispiness.
Toss in sauce right before serving to keep the breading from getting soft.

Variations and Customizations

Baked Version
For a lighter option, bake the coated chicken at 425°F for 18–22 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Air Fryer Method
Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes. Lightly spray with oil for a more even crisp.
Different Sauces
Consider swapping the Bang Bang sauce for buffalo sauce, garlic parmesan sauce, or a honey barbecue glaze.
Spice Adjustments
Reduce or eliminate the Sriracha for a milder dish or add cayenne pepper for extra heat.
Protein Options
This recipe also works with shrimp, tofu, cauliflower, or white fish.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with steamed jasmine rice or garlic fried rice for a balanced meal.
Add a side of crispy roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Pair with refreshing dips such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.
For a full meal, serve alongside noodles, fries, or a simple coleslaw.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate for best results.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Reheating Tip: Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes rather than microwaving, which softens the coating.