Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is an irresistible dish that perfectly marries crunchy texture with a riot of bold, layered spices. Originating as a vibrant twist on classic Szechuan flavors, this dish has captured hearts worldwide with its addictive balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy notes. From the very first bite,the crisp exterior contrasted with tender chicken inside creates a symphony of texture and flavor that’s hard to forget. Whether your a spice aficionado or a crispy chicken lover seeking an adventurous dish, mastering this recipe promises a delightful journey through every crunch and spice nuance.
Prep and Cook Time
- Readiness: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 generously as a main course or 6 as an appetizer.
Difficulty Level
Medium – approachable for home cooks ready to elevate their spice game and frying techniques.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Marinade: 2 tsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry), 1 tsp kosher salt
- Batter: 1 cup cornstarch, ½ cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder
- Spices: 1 tsp chinese five-spice powder, ½ tsp white pepper, ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Oil for frying: 3 cups vegetable oil or peanut oil
- Sauce: ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce, 1 tbsp sriracha, 1 tsp honey, 1 tsp rice vinegar
- Garnish: Thinly sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro leaves
Instructions
- marinate the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine chicken pieces with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and salt. Mix well and let rest for 15 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, Chinese five-spice powder, white pepper, and smoked paprika. The blend ensures the perfect balance of crispiness and layered aroma.
- coat the chicken: Add marinated chicken pieces to the dry batter.Toss until each piece is generously coated. For extra crunch, let battered chicken rest for 5 minutes so the mixture adheres well.
- Heat the oil: Use a heavy-bottomed pan or wok. heat oil to 350°F (175°C).use a thermometer for precision-ideal frying temperature is crucial for ultimate crispiness.
- Fry the chicken: Fry chicken pieces in batches,ensuring they are fully submerged and not crowded,which helps maintain high oil temperature. Fry for about 4-5 minutes or until golden-brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer pieces to a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth. Adjust sweetness or heat according to taste.
- coat and serve: Toss the crispy chicken in the sauce just before serving to maintain crunchy texture beneath the creamy, spicy glaze.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and cilantro to add freshness, subtle crunch, and an inviting aroma.
Tips for Success
- Ingredient Quality: Opt for fresh chicken thighs rather than breasts; they stay tender and juicy beneath the crunch.
- Temperature Control: Maintain oil temperature between 340°F – 360°F. Too low and the chicken absorbs oil; too high and it browns too quickly without cooking through.
- Double Frying Technique: For an even more remarkable crunch, fry the chicken twice – first at 320°F for 3 minutes, drain, then again at 360°F for 2 minutes until crisp.
- Make Ahead: Fry the chicken and let drain on racks. Reheat briefly in a hot oven (400°F for 5 minutes) before tossing in sauce to revive its perfect crunch.
- Spice Customization: Adjust the heat level in the sauce by increasing or decreasing sriracha, or incorporate a pinch of ground Sichuan peppercorn for authentic numbing spice.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Bang Bang Chicken Experience
Plate your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside fresh cucumber ribbons and pickled carrots to balance the spice with crisp, cool vegetal notes. complement the dish with a light, refreshing Asian slaw tossed in a tangy rice vinegar dressing. For drinks,a cold lager or a citrusy white wine such as sauvignon Blanc cuts through the richness delightfully.
Garnish with a handful of toasted sesame seeds and herbs, and serve with extra dipping sauce on the side to encourage double-dipping and flavor layering.Adding crunchy peanuts or crushed cashews offers an additional textural contrast that enhances the crispy delight.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
Discover more crispy chicken recipes for your next flavorful feast. For deep insights into spice blends and their health benefits, visit Bon Appétit’s spice guide.
Q&A
Q&A: Crispy Bang Bang Chicken – A Flavor-Packed Crunch Delight
Q1: What exactly is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
A1: Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a mouthwatering dish featuring tender chicken pieces that are double-fried to achieve an irresistible crunch, then tossed in a spicy, creamy, and slightly sweet sauce known as bang bang sauce. It’s a perfect harmony of textures and bold flavors that makes every bite a delight.
Q2: Where does the name “Bang Bang” come from?
A2: The name ”Bang Bang” is believed to originate from the sound made when tenderizing the chicken with a mallet-“bang bang!” It also captures the explosive, vibrant flavor punch the sauce delivers, making the dish as exciting in taste as it is indeed fun in name.
Q3: What makes the chicken so crispy?
A3: The secret to its legendary crunch lies in the double-frying technique. The chicken is first coated in a seasoned batter or cornstarch and fried until golden. After resting, it’s fried again at a higher temperature, which seals in juiciness and creates a crackling, ultra-crisp exterior.
Q4: What’s in the bang bang sauce?
A4: Bang bang sauce is a luscious blend typically made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a dash of lime or vinegar for tanginess. This combination yields a creamy, spicy, and sweet glaze that clings beautifully to the crispy chicken.
Q5: Can Crispy Bang Bang Chicken be made healthier?
A5: absolutely! While conventional recipes involve frying, you can bake the chicken coated in panko or use an air fryer for a lighter crunch. Swapping mayo with Greek yogurt in the sauce or reducing sugar can also make it a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Q6: What sides pair best with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
A6: Fresh, crisp veggies like cucumber salad or shredded cabbage slaw are perfect to balance the richness. Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice complements the saucy, spicy chicken, while pickled radishes or carrots add a refreshing tang.
Q7: Is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken spicy?
A7: It can be! The level of heat is adjustable depending on how much sriracha or chili sauce you add. For those who love a little kick,the dish offers a deliciously spicy undertone wrapped in creamy sweetness. For milder palates, reducing the peppers keeps it flavorful but friendly.
Q8: Any tips for making this dish at home?
A8: Yes! Key tips include patting your chicken dry for better crisping, not overcrowding the frying pan to maintain oil temperature, and tossing the chicken in sauce just before serving to keep the crunch intact. Also, experimenting with fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions can elevate the dish’s aroma and freshness.
Q9: Why is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken so popular right now?
A9: This dish hits all the crave-worthy notes – crunchy texture,creamy sauce,a perfect balance of heat and sweetness – making it irresistible for food lovers seeking bold flavors. Its Instagram-worthy look and satisfying bite have turbocharged its popularity, especially in the era of foodie culture.Q10: Can vegetarians enjoy a version of Bang Bang Chicken?
A10: Yes! Crispy Bang bang Cauliflower or tofu are fantastic vegetarian alternatives that soak up the flavorful bang bang sauce just as well. Using the same double-frying or air-frying method ensures a delightful crunch and an equally satisfying eating experience.
To Conclude
In the world of crispy delights,Bang Bang Chicken stands out as a vibrant symphony of textures and flavors-a perfect union of crunchy coating and zesty,creamy sauce that awakens the palate with every bite. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, this flavor-packed dish consistently delivers a satisfying crunch that is both comforting and exciting. So next time you crave something bold yet approachable, let Crispy Bang Bang Chicken be your go-to recipe, transforming simple ingredients into a memorable culinary experience that leaves you eager for more. Crunch on, and enjoy the flavorful journey!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a sensory delight that marries irresistibly crunchy chicken with a creamy, spicy, and sweet sauce – a true festivity of texture and bold flavor. Originating from Sichuan-inspired American-Chinese fusion, this dish has captured hearts worldwide thanks to its addictive balance of heat, sweetness, and crunch.Whether served as a weeknight main or party favorite, mastering the perfect crisp and the iconic sauce will elevate your cooking repertoire.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total: 35 minutes
Yield
- Serves 4 generous portions
Difficulty Level
- Medium – requires attention to coating and frying technique
Ingredients
- for the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for deep frying
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese Kewpie for creaminess)
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- Garnish:
- Chopped fresh cilantro or scallions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced red chili (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg. Submerge the chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to tenderize and infuse moisture.
- Prepare the Dry coating: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. The cornstarch and baking powder are vital to achieving that infamous crunch.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep heavy-bottomed pot or a deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Maintaining accurate temperature is crucial to avoid greasy or undercooked chicken.
- Coat and Fry: Remove chicken pieces from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the dry mixture, pressing down to create an even coating.
- Carefully drop the chicken in batches into hot oil, frying for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crisp inside out. Avoid overcrowding the pot to keep oil temperature steady. Use a slotted spoon to transfer onto a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, sriracha, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil until smooth.Taste and adjust sweetness or heat balanced to your liking.
- Toss and Serve: In a large bowl,gently toss the crispy chicken with the sauce,ensuring each piece is luxuriously coated but not soggy.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro, scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and thin chili slices over the top for a vibrant finish.
Tips for Success
- Dry Ingredients Balance: The cornstarch combined with flour and baking powder provides the signature crackling crust – don’t substitute cornstarch with flour alone.
- oil Temperature Control: Use a thermometer to keep the oil steady at 350°F. Too low leads to oily chicken; too high risks burning.
- Make Ahead: Sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance, allowing flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge.
- Chicken Choice: Thighs provide juiciness and flavor best suited for frying, but breast meat can be used if preferred-just watch cook times to avoid dryness.
- Double Fry Trick: For extra crunch, fry chicken twice: fry initially until just cooked, rest for 5 minutes, then fry again for 2-3 minutes until ultra-crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Present this crispy bang bang chicken on a large platter alongside steamed jasmine rice or crunchy slaw to balance the richness. Garnishing with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds adds visual pops and bursts of flavor. Pair with a cold, light beer or an iced jasmine tea to cut through the creamy sauce’s richness.
| Nutrient | per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 32 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
Explore more tasty fried favorites in our Crispy Thai Chicken Wings recipe or deepen your understanding of classic Asian flavor profiles on Serious eats.
Q&A
Q&A: crispy Bang Bang Chicken - A Flavor-Packed Delight Unveiled
Q1: What exactly is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
A1: Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a delectable culinary creation that fuses crunchy, golden-fried chicken bites with a bold, creamy sauce bursting with sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.This dish tantalizes the taste buds with its perfect balance of textures and tastes, making every bite a flavorful adventure.
Q2: Where does the name “Bang Bang” come from?
A2: The intriguing name “Bang Bang” is believed to have roots in Chinese cuisine, where it originally referred to a traditional preparation involving tenderized meat. Today, it’s popularly associated with dishes cooked with a spicy, creamy sauce that “bangs” with fiery excitement – hence the playful name that hints at its explosive flavor profile.
Q3: What ingredients make Bang Bang chicken so irresistible?
A3: The magic lies in the combination of crispy fried chicken (frequently enough bite-sized pieces coated in a light batter or panko crumbs) paired with a luscious sauce made from mayonnaise,sweet chili sauce,a hint of sriracha or hot sauce,honey,and sometimes a splash of lime juice for brightness. Garnished with green onions or sesame seeds, the dish pops visually and flavor-wise.
Q4: Is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken challenging to prepare at home?
A4: Not at all! While it sounds like a dish from a trendy restaurant menu, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is surprisingly approachable for home cooks. With some basic frying skills and a handful of pantry staples for the sauce, you can whip up this flavor-packed delight in less than 30 minutes.
Q5: What makes this dish stand out from other fried chicken recipes?
A5: Unlike traditional fried chicken that’s often seasoned with dry spices or dipped in buttermilk, Bang Bang Chicken’s allure comes from its vivacious sauce that wraps the crispy chicken in a creamy, sweet, and spicy glaze. This combination elevates the texture and flavor experience, creating a dish that’s both crunchy and saucy in the best possible way.
Q6: Can the recipe be adapted for those with dietary restrictions?
A6: Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, swap regular flour or panko for gluten-free alternatives when breading the chicken. For a lighter take, try baking the chicken rather of frying it. Veggie lovers can explore using crispy cauliflower florets or tofu as tasty substitutes, keeping all the bang without the bang-bang!
Q7: what are the best occasions to serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
A7: This dish shines at casual gatherings, game days, or family dinners where finger foods and bold flavors steal the show. It also works fabulously as an appetizer, party snack, or even a main course paired with rice or crisp greens for a complete meal.
Q8: How can one customize the heat level of Bang Bang Chicken?
A8: The heat is easily adjustable by varying the amount and type of chili sauce or sriracha used in the sauce. For a milder version, reduce the spicy ingredients and add a touch more honey or sweet chili sauce. For a fiery kick, boost the hot sauce or toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Q9: What drinks or sides complement Crispy Bang Bang chicken?
A9: Refreshing beverages like iced green tea,citrusy lemonade,or a crisp lager help balance the richness and spice. As for sides, think along the lines of crunchy slaws, steamed jasmine rice, or light cucumber salads to add freshness and contrast.
Q10: Why has Crispy Bang Bang Chicken become such a popular dish worldwide?
A10: Its universal appeal lies in the harmonious blend of comforting fried chicken with an exciting, dynamic sauce that’s easy to love. It satisfies cravings for crunch, creaminess, sweetness, and heat all at once – a flavor-packed delight that invites you to come back for more.
Concluding Remarks
In the vibrant world of culinary exploration,Crispy Bang Bang Chicken stands out as a dazzling testament to the magic that happens when texture and bold flavors collide. This flavor-packed delight not onyl satisfies the craving for something crunchy and savory but also invites a deeper recognition for the art of balancing heat, sweetness, and tang. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a curious foodie, embracing this recipe is an invitation to thrill your taste buds and add a dynamic dish to your rotation.So next time you’re seeking a meal that’s equal parts comfort and excitement, remember-the secret to unforgettable flavor might just be a crispy bang away.
