Bang Bang Chicken

Posted on October 20, 2025

Easy and Delicious Bang Bang Chicken: A Comfort Food Classic

As I think back on my culinary journey, I can’t help but laugh at all the chaos that has unfolded in my kitchen—especially when it comes to fried chicken! I remember the first time I attempted this recipe. My kitchen looked like a scene from a slapstick comedy. Flour was everywhere, even in places I never thought it could reach. And let’s not even get started on the eggs—I somehow managed to drop one on the floor. Oops! But amidst the spills and splatters, I discovered a love for Bang Bang Chicken that has only deepened over the years.

This recipe not only embodies deliciousness but also evokes memories of cozy evenings spent with friends or family. Picture it: the sun begins to set, the room is filled with a warm glow, and the tantalizing smell of fried chicken wafts through the air. It’s one of those meals that feels like a loving hug from your grandma, all wrapped up in crispy, spicy goodness.

When I first introduced Bang Bang Chicken during a weekday dinner, it quickly became a household favorite. The crunchy Panko breadcrumbs gave it that delightful texture, while the sauce—a glorious mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha—added a burst of flavor that had everyone asking for seconds. Honestly, it’s like a party on a plate!

The beauty of this dish is that it fits perfectly into the category of easy weeknight dinners. Whether you’re tackling a busy Tuesday or treating yourself on a lazy Sunday, Bang Bang Chicken delivers joy and satisfaction. So grab your apron (and maybe a glass of something refreshing) because we’re diving deep into the world of this mouthwatering dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Prepping this dish takes only about 30 minutes! Seriously, you can be sitting down to dinner faster than it takes to call for takeout.
Comfort Food at Its Best: Crunchy outside, tender inside, and slathered in a spicy sauce—this chicken definitely brings the cozy vibes.
Picky Eater Approved: It’s hard not to love fried chicken, and the sweet-spicy sauce is a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Leftover Magic: If you happen to have leftovers (which is doubtful), reheating them is a breeze, and they taste just as good the next day.
Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is a star in my meal planning chicken routine. You can bread the chicken ahead of time and fry it fresh for a quick family meal.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing simple ingredients, this dish proves that great flavor doesn’t have to break the bank.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Bang Bang Chicken holds a unique spot in my heart—it’s more than just food; it’s a ritual. From cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces to frying them up until golden brown, every step has a memory attached to it. The first time I made it for my best friend, we giggled and shoved our faces with this finger-licking goodness while binge-watching a cheesy rom-com. Talk about a meal that nourishes both heart and soul!

The sauce is what elevates this dish. The combination of creamy mayonnaise with the sweet and spicy elements from the chili sauce and sriracha creates a dynamic flavor profile that dances on your taste buds. It’s like a quick trip to flavor town that you didn’t know you needed.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious Bang Bang Chicken:

1 pound chicken breasts: The star of the show! I prefer using organic chicken for flavor and texture; however, any boneless chicken will work.
1 cup flour: This forms the first layer of our crispy coating—don’t skimp on it.
2 eggs: These are essential for helping the breadcrumbs stick. Pro tip: beat them well to get that fluffy coating!
1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Trust me, panko takes this to a whole new level of crunchiness. It’s lighter and flakier than regular bread crumbs.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory background note that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Essential for seasoning—nobody likes bland chicken!
1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creaminess of the mayonnaise forms the base of our sauce, giving it that luscious feel.
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: This will sweeten things up, and oh boy, do we love sweet and spicy together!
2 tablespoons sriracha: For that kick of heat! Adjust this based on your spice tolerance.
Vegetable oil for frying: Regular vegetable oil works well, but feel free to use canola or even peanut oil if you want that extra nutty flavor.

Personal Tips

When cutting the chicken into pieces, aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly; I learned that the hard way! And always remember, frying food requires patience. If the oil isn’t hot enough, your chicken will just soak it up and become soggy, which is—let’s be real—an absolute kitchen disaster.

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Alright, friends, let’s roll up those sleeves and get into the nitty-gritty of making Bang Bang Chicken!

1. Prepare the Chicken

First, take your pound of chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces. I usually try to mimic the size of a chicken nugget—perfect for easy eating and dipping!

2. Set Up Your Assembly Line

This is where things can get a bit chaotic. Set up three bowls: in the first, mix the flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, pour in the panko breadcrumbs.

3. The Dreaded Dipping Process

Okay, this is where I truly make a mess. Dip each chicken piece in the flour mixture first, making sure to coat it completely. Then, move it to the egg wash and let any excess drip off. Finally, toss it into the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure it’s well coated.

I invariably end up with flour on my face and breadcrumbs on the floor, but it’s all part of the fun, right?

4. Heat the Oil

In a large frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom, about 1/4 inch deep. Heat it over medium heat. You can test if it’s hot enough by dipping a breadcrumb in; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready! If it doesn’t, wait a minute—trust me, you don’t want to fry in cold oil.

5. Fry the Chicken

Carefully add your chicken pieces to the hot oil one by one, without overcrowding the pan (remember, we want them golden, not soggy). Fry them until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes per side depending on their size.

Be sure to flip them carefully; you want that beautiful crust to stay intact. As they fry, the aroma will fill the air—crispy goodness is on the way!

6. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Taste it—this is your moment! Add extra sriracha if you like more heat, or a sprinkle of lime juice for acidity.

7. Toss and Serve

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and let it drain on a paper towel. Then, right before serving, toss the warm chicken in the sauce until it’s well coated. Oh man, you won’t be able to resist sneaking a piece before plating!

Tips for Best Results

Patience is Key: Ensure your oil is at the right temperature. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb the oil and become greasy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary; this allows for even cooking and crispiness.
Add Flavor to the Panko Mixture: Consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra flavor punch.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up or accommodate dietary preferences, here are some ideas:

For a Healthier Option: Use almond flour instead of regular flour to make it gluten-free. You might end up with a different texture, but it’ll still be delicious!
Spicy Twist: Add paprika or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for added heat.
Serve with a Twist: Use the same coating method for shrimp or tofu, and create a seafood or vegetarian version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Bang Bang Chicken with fluffy Jasmine rice or wrapped in soft tortillas for tacos. Adding some crunchy veggies like shredded cabbage or fresh cilantro elevates it to another level. Honestly, pair your meal with a refreshing beverage—perhaps a chilled lemonade or a fruity iced tea—and you have yourself perfection.

And let’s finish with a guilty pleasure: this whole combo + a rom-com? Absolute bliss.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you somehow have leftovers (which is almost a miracle in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for 2-3 days. To reheat, a quick time in the oven at 350°F is your best bet for retaining that crispy texture.

Avoid microwaving as that can turn your beloved chicken into a sad, mushy counterpart. Trust me; I’ve learned this the hard way!

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

To save time, bread the chicken in advance. Store it in the fridge, and then fry it right before you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can freeze the breaded pieces on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just fry them straight from the freezer—just add a couple more minutes to the cooking time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Cold Oil: Warm up your oil thoroughly before frying. Cold oil will ruin the crispy texture you’re aiming for!
Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t skip on the salt in both the chicken and the sauce. It’s essential for bringing out all those lovely flavors.
Not Checking for Doneness: Always ensure your chicken is cooked through before serving. A meat thermometer makes this easy—165°F is your magic number.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can bread the chicken and keep it in the fridge beforehand. Fry just before you’re ready to serve.

Can I use another sauce for tossing?
Absolutely! A buffalo sauce or ranch dressing would also be fantastic if you want to try something different.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?
It goes wonderfully with fluffy rice, crunchy tacos, or even a fresh salad for balancing out the spice.

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

A sharp knife and cutting board for the chicken
Three mixing bowls for the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs
A frying pan or deep pot for frying
A thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature
Tongs or a slotted spoon for turning the chicken

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is not just a quick meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter, mishaps, and the delicious warmth of comfort food. I hope this recipe brings you as much joy as it has brought me and my loved ones.

Next time you find yourself pondering what to make for dinner, remember to grab some chicken, fire up that frying pan, and whip up this darling dish. I’d love to hear your versions, too!

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Happy cooking, friends!

Bang Bang Chicken

Easy and Delicious Bang Bang Chicken: A Comfort Food Classic

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What Makes This Recipe Special?