Bang Bang Chicken Recipe: A Fiesta of Flavors

Discover the tantalizing taste of Bang Bang Chicken, a dish that combines crispy chicken with a spicy and tangy sauce. This recipe will awaken your taste buds with its rich flavors and satisfying texture. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is bound to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors that’s both spicy and sweet. The crispy chicken is perfectly complemented by the creamy sauce, which makes it an instant crowd-pleaser. It’s an easy-to-follow recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste, great for both quick weeknight meals and special occasions.

The versatility of this dish is another reason to love it. Serve it as an appetizer, pair it with rice for a main dish, or even include it in a wrap or salad. The possibilities are endless, and the flavors will leave everyone craving more!

Context/Background

Bang Bang Chicken originates from the streets of Sichuan, China, where it is often touted as a local specialty. Originally named “Bon Bon Chicken” due to the sound of meat being pounded with a wooden stick, it has since evolved into the delightful, Western-inspired dish we know today. The adaptation highlights the key elements of spicy and savory flavors, making it a favorite across many cultures.

Recipe Details

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Chopped scallions for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
2. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then into the egg, and back into the flour to coat thoroughly.
3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
4. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey to make the Bang Bang sauce.
6. Toss the fried chicken pieces in the sauce until evenly coated.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds before serving.

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy texture.
• Fry the chicken in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Adjust the spice level by altering the amount of sriracha in the sauce.
• For extra crunch, double coat the chicken with flour and egg.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Bang Bang Chicken atop a bed of steamed rice or alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It also works beautifully in a sandwich or wrap, adding a spicy twist to your lunch.

Storage and Leftovers

Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness without losing the sauce’s flavor.

Final Thoughts

Enjoy the savory and spicy experience of Bang Bang Chicken, a dish that promises not just flavor but versatility in meal planning. Try it out and add a bit of spice to your everyday culinary repertoire!

Recipe Notes

• Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter sauce.
• Experiment with adding garlic powder or ginger to the sauce for a flavor twist.
• The sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge to save time.