Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is one of those dishes I make when I’m craving something crispy, spicy, and downright addictive. Tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken are coated in a crunchy crust, then tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that keeps me coming back for more. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for serving as an appetizer, over rice, or in lettuce wraps.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish combines crispy chicken with a bold, creamy sauce. It hits all the right notes—crunchy, tangy, spicy, and sweet. It’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients, and I can adjust the spice level depending on my mood. Whether I’m making a quick weeknight dinner or a game day snack, Bang Bang Chicken always delivers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• cornstarch (or flour)

• salt and black pepper

• garlic powder

• eggs (for coating)

• oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• mayonnaise

• sweet chili sauce

• Sriracha (or any hot sauce)

• honey or a pinch of sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

Optional: green onions or sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

1. I cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

2. I set up a breading station with whisked eggs in one bowl and cornstarch in another. I dip the chicken into the egg, then coat it in the cornstarch until fully covered.

3. I heat oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, I fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side. I transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate.

4. In a separate bowl, I mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. I add a bit of honey if I want it slightly sweeter.

5. I toss the crispy chicken in the sauce until well coated or drizzle it on top just before serving to keep the crunch.

6. I garnish with green onions or sesame seeds and serve it hot—on its own, over rice, or in lettuce wraps.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes around 30 minutes total—with 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking. It’s quick enough for busy nights but feels like a fun treat.

Variations

• Air fryer version: I cook the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• Baked version: I place the coated chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20–25 minutes, until crispy.

• Shrimp version: I use the same method with shrimp instead of chicken for Bang Bang Shrimp.

• Make it spicy: I increase the Sriracha or add crushed red pepper for extra heat.

• Lettuce wraps: I serve the chicken in crisp lettuce cups for a low-carb version.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but the chicken may lose some crispiness. To reheat, I use the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes. I prefer to store the sauce separately and toss just before serving to maintain the texture.

FAQs

Can I use flour instead of cornstarch?

Yes, flour works fine, but cornstarch gives the chicken a crispier finish.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a mild to medium kick, depending on how much Sriracha I use. I can easily adjust it to my taste.

Can I make this sauce dairy-free?

Yes, just make sure to use a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative.

Can I prepare this ahead?

I fry the chicken ahead of time and store it separately from the sauce. When ready, I reheat the chicken and toss with sauce just before serving.

What do I serve it with?

I love serving it with steamed rice, noodles, lettuce wraps, or even as a fun party appetizer.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken is one of those recipes that looks impressive but couldn’t be easier to make. It’s crispy, creamy, and full of flavor—and I love how versatile it is. Whether I’m cooking for a crowd or just treating myself to something indulgent, this dish always satisfies my craving for something spicy, sweet, and seriously delicious.