Bang Bang Chicken is an irresistible fusion of crispy golden chicken and a bold, creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that turns an everyday dinner into a showstopper. Popularized by restaurant menus and viral food trends, this dish is the perfect marriage of texture and taste—and once you try it, there’s no going back.
Let’s dive into this easy, flavorful recipe that works just as well for family dinners as it does for party appetizers. Plus, we’ll explore variations and pairings using related dishes from My World Wide Recipe.
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Originally inspired by Asian street food and popularized by American restaurants like Bonefish Grill with their “Bang Bang Shrimp,” this chicken version captures the same magic. Crispy chicken tenders are coated with a crunchy panko crust, deep-fried or air-fried, and generously drizzled with a creamy, spicy, and sweet Bang Bang Sauce.
If you’re already a fan of recipes like Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs or Baked Crunchy Hot Honey Chicken, Bang Bang Chicken is the next one to try.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Sriracha
- Spices: garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 cups plain panko breadcrumbs
- Canola oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp Sriracha (more to taste)
- 2 tbsp honey
Looking for a dairy-free alternative? Try this with Vegan Pistachio Cream Brownies as a sweet contrast.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Set aside or refrigerate—it lasts up to 5 days.
2. Prep the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, and all seasonings. Toss chicken tenderloins in the mixture to coat evenly.
3. Bread the Chicken
Dredge each coated chicken strip in panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to make sure they adhere. Set aside on a plate.
4. Fry to Perfection
Heat 1 inch of oil in a skillet to 365°F. Fry the chicken in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan!
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate before serving.
5. Drizzle & Garnish
Toss or drizzle the crispy chicken with Bang Bang Sauce, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Air Fryer or Oven Option
No deep fryer? No problem.
- Air Fryer: Spray coated chicken with cooking spray and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven-Baked: Bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet, flipping once. Spray with oil for extra crispiness.
Love quick oven recipes? Try our Oven-Roasted Garlic Cabbage Steaks or Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry as sides.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap in foil, then freeze in a bag for up to 6 months.
- Reheat: Air fryer or oven recommended to retain crispiness.
Pairing Ideas
Want to make it a meal? Here are some great pairings:
- Light Sides: Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs or Spicy Maple Roast Carrots
- Cool Sauces: Balance spice with Lebanese Garlic Sauce
- Comfort Dishes: Serve over rice with Creamy Garlic Red Pepper Chicken
Bang Bang Variations You’ll Love
The Bang Bang Sauce is so versatile that you can try it with:
- Bang Bang Salmon Bites – seafood lovers rejoice!
- Tofu or cauliflower – perfect vegetarian substitutes
- Wraps or sliders – tuck crispy chicken in tortillas or buns for a fun twist
Or serve it next to Garlic Chicken Stir Fry for a double chicken dinner combo!
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Chicken is easy, fast, and so delicious you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation. Whether you fry it, bake it, or air-fry it, the combination of crispy breading and zesty sauce is simply unbeatable.
If you’re looking for more crowd-pleasing chicken dishes, check out our popular Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken or the ultra-satisfying Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs.