Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that everyone loves! It combines juicy chicken with a crunchy panko coating and a creamy, spicy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or just craving something delicious, this recipe fits the bill. With its Asian-inspired flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and sauces provides an unforgettable taste experience that is both savory and sweet.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a meal prep plan for the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings and parties; everyone will be coming back for seconds!
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the level of Sriracha to cater to your spice preference, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this delicious Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking the chicken evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in sauces and mixtures.

Ingredients

To make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 beaten eggs
• 1/2 cup cornstarch

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help ensure even cooking and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Coating

In a bowl, combine cornstarch with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece of chicken in this mixture before dipping into the beaten eggs.

Step 3: Coat with Panko Breadcrumbs

Roll the egg-coated chicken in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered for maximum crunch. Ensure every piece has an even coating for that crispy texture.

Step 4: Bake or Fry the Chicken

Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Alternatively, you can fry them in hot oil until crispy for an extra crunch.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

For the sauce, mix mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, and honey in a small bowl; stir until smooth. This creamy mixture adds flavor to your crispy chicken.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the crispy chicken drizzled generously with the bang bang sauce. Enjoy this delightful dish hot from the oven or fryer!

How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh Salad: Serve the crispy chicken on a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
• Asian Slaw: Pair with an Asian-inspired slaw for a crunchy texture and zesty flavor.

In a Wrap

• Tortilla Wraps: Slice the chicken and wrap it in tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, and the bang bang sauce for a delicious handheld meal.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas to create fresh wraps.

As an Appetizer

• Skewers: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and serve them on skewers drizzled with extra sauce for easy eating.
• Dipping Platter: Offer the crispy chicken with small bowls of additional bang bang sauce or sweet chili sauce for dipping.

How to Perfect Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

To achieve the perfect Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, it’s essential to follow some key tips. These will help you create a dish that’s not only crispy but also packed with flavor.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best taste and texture.
• Proper Coating: Ensure each piece is well-coated in cornstarch, egg, and panko breadcrumbs to achieve maximum crunchiness.
• Preheat Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking; this helps ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spiciness of your bang bang sauce by modifying the amount of Sriracha based on your preference.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy and allows flavors to meld.
• Store Correctly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that soaks up the sauce beautifully while adding a delicate touch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and bell peppers roasted until tender enhance both color and flavor.
3. Fried Rice: Add vegetables and eggs to fried rice for a tasty side that echoes Asian flavors.
4. Garlic Noodles: Soft noodles tossed in garlic butter offer another layer of deliciousness alongside the crispy chicken.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad provides crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
6. Spring Rolls: Crisp vegetable spring rolls add texture and can be served with sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, even small errors can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch creates a crispy coating. Make sure to dredge the chicken in it before dipping into the eggs for the best crunch.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If you place too many pieces of chicken on one sheet, they will steam instead of bake. Give each piece space to ensure they become golden and crispy.

• Neglecting to preheat the oven: Preheating is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness. Always ensure your oven reaches 400°F (200°C) before placing your chicken inside.

• Using regular breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs offer a unique crunch that regular breadcrumbs cannot replicate. Stick to panko for that signature texture.

• Not adjusting spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, be mindful of how much Sriracha you add. Start with less and adjust according to your taste preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crispy Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Freezing Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container.
• It can last up to three months in the freezer without losing quality.

Reheating Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Reheat the chicken for about 5 minutes per side, ensuring it’s heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a flavorful dish combining crunchy chicken with a creamy and spicy sauce. It’s known for its unique textures and vibrant flavors inspired by Asian cuisine.

Can I make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat before serving for optimal crispiness.

How do I customize my Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

Feel free to adjust the spice level by varying the amount of Sriracha used. You can also add different seasonings or herbs to the coating mix for added flavor.

What should I serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, salads, or steamed vegetables. You can create a complete meal by adding your favorite sides!

Final Thoughts

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is not just delicious; it’s incredibly versatile! Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this recipe satisfies every time. With options to customize sauces or sides, you can easily make it your own. Try this amazing dish and let your taste buds enjoy!