Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is a crispy, golden-fried chicken dish coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that keeps people coming back for more. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or stuffed into wraps and tacos, its bold flavors and crispy texture make it an instant favorite.
This dish has roots in Sichuan cuisine, where the original Bang Bang Chicken (also called Bang Bang Ji) was made with shredded poached chicken and a sesame-based sauce. However, the Westernized version of Bang Bang Chicken features crispy fried chicken bites tossed in a spicy mayo-based sauce that has become a popular restaurant and takeout dish.
In this guide, you will learn:
- How to make crispy Bang Bang Chicken from scratch
- The secret to the perfect Bang Bang sauce
- Different cooking methods: deep-fried, baked, or air-fried
- How to serve and customize the dish to your preference
If you love crispy chicken with a kick, this Bang Bang Chicken recipe is one you will want to make again and again.
Table of contents
What Is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy, flavorful dish featuring golden-fried chicken bites coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. This dish is beloved for its crunchy texture, bold flavors, and addictive sauce, making it a popular choice in restaurants and home kitchens alike.
Origins of Bang Bang Chicken
- The original Bang Bang Chicken (Bang Bang Ji) comes from Sichuan cuisine, where shredded poached chicken is served with a spicy sesame-peanut sauce.
- The modern version is deep-fried, breaded chicken pieces tossed in a creamy, spicy mayo-based sauce with sweet chili and sriracha.
- The name “Bang Bang” comes from the traditional preparation method in which the poached chicken was pounded with a stick to make it easier to shred.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy and Crunchy – The breaded chicken stays crunchy even when coated in sauce.
Bold and Flavorful – The sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce adds an irresistible kick.
Versatile Dish – Serve as an appetizer, in a rice bowl, or stuffed into wraps and tacos.
Easy to Make at Home – No need for takeout when you can make restaurant-quality Bang Bang Chicken in under 30 minutes.
Whether you love fried chicken, spicy sauces, or Asian-inspired flavors, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
To make Bang Bang Chicken at home, you need simple ingredients that create the perfect crispy texture and bold, creamy sauce. This recipe includes everything you need for the chicken, breading, and signature Bang Bang sauce.
Ingredients for the Chicken
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 (or use boneless thighs) |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
| Olive oil (for cooking) | 2 tablespoons |
Ingredients for the Breading
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | ½ cup |
| Eggs (beaten) | 2 |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
Ingredients for the Bang Bang Sauce
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Sweet chili sauce | ¼ cup |
| Sriracha | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Lime juice | 1 teaspoon |
Ingredients for Garnishing & Serving
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chopped green onions | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Steamed rice or lettuce (optional) | For serving |
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to make the perfect crispy Bang Bang Chicken.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken
Making Bang Bang Chicken at home is easy and can be done in under 30 minutes. Follow these step-by-step instructions to get crispy, golden-brown chicken bites coated in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce.
Preparing the Chicken
- Cut the Chicken:
- Slice 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes).
- Season the Chicken:
- Sprinkle the chicken pieces with:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the chicken pieces with:
Breading the Chicken
- Set Up a Breading Station:
- Bowl 1: Add ½ cup all-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2: Beat 2 eggs.
- Bowl 3: Add 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
- Coat Each Piece:
- Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, ensuring an even coating.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs.
- Roll it in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Place on a tray and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to help the coating stick.
Cooking the Chicken
You can cook Bang Bang Chicken using three different methods: deep frying, baking, or air frying.
1.Deep Frying (Crispiest Method)
- Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken in small batches for 3-4 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
2.Baking (Healthier Option)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.
- Arrange the breaded chicken in a single layer.
- Spray the tops of the chicken with a little oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3.Air Frying (Crispy & Healthier Alternative)
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer, spraying lightly with oil.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Assembling and Serving Bang Bang Chicken
it’s time to plate it and enjoy. This dish is versatile and can be served in different ways to fit any meal or occasion.
1. Classic Bang Bang Chicken Platter
- Serve the coated Bang Bang Chicken on a large plate or platter.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor.
- Add a side of extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping.
- Great for appetizers, party platters, or game-day snacks.
2. Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl
- Serve the crispy chicken over a bowl of steamed white or jasmine rice.
- Add stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- Drizzle extra Bang Bang sauce on top for a bold flavor.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro.
3. Bang Bang Chicken Tacos
- Warm up small tortillas (flour or corn).
- Fill each tortilla with a layer of shredded lettuce or cabbage.
- Add Bang Bang Chicken pieces on top.
- Drizzle with extra Bang Bang sauce.
- Garnish with avocado slices, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.
4. Bang Bang Chicken Wrap or Sandwich
- Use a large tortilla or sandwich bun as a base.
- Spread a little Bang Bang sauce on the tortilla or bread.
- Add crispy lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and shredded carrots.
- Fill with Bang Bang Chicken and wrap tightly.
5. Bang Bang Chicken Salad
- Serve the crispy chicken over a fresh green salad with:
- Romaine or mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and shredded carrots
- Sliced avocado for creaminess
- Drizzle with extra Bang Bang sauce as a dressing.
Final Garnishes & Extras
- Chopped green onions – Adds freshness.
- Sesame seeds – Gives an extra crunch.
- Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime brightens up the flavors.
- Cilantro – Adds a fresh, herbal touch.
Now that you know the best ways to serve Bang Bang Chicken, let’s explore custom variations and substitutions to fit different dietary needs.
Best Variations and Substitutions for Bang Bang Chicken
Bang Bang Chicken is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it based on dietary preferences, spice levels, and different cooking methods. Whether you want a healthier version, a vegetarian alternative, or extra spice, here are some of the best variations and substitutions.
1. Healthier & Lighter Options
For a lighter and healthier Bang Bang Chicken, consider these modifications:
- Baked or Air-Fried Version – Instead of deep-frying, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes for a crispy texture with less oil.
- Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayonnaise – Swap Greek yogurt for mayo in the Bang Bang sauce for a tangier, protein-rich alternative.
- Grilled Chicken Instead of Fried – Grill or pan-sear the chicken for a lighter take on this dish while keeping the sauce intact.
2. Extra Spicy Bang Bang Chicken
If you love heat, try these fiery upgrades:
- Increase the sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce for extra spice.
- Add cayenne pepper to the chicken seasoning before breading.
- Drizzle with hot honey for a sweet-heat balance.
- Mix in chopped jalapeños or Thai chilis for an extra spicy kick.
3. Vegetarian & Vegan Bang Bang Chicken
To make a vegetarian or vegan version, swap out the chicken for one of these delicious alternatives:
- Crispy Bang Bang Cauliflower – Bread and fry cauliflower florets for a vegetarian-friendly twist.
- Bang Bang Tofu – Use firm tofu, breaded and baked or air-fried, for a vegan alternative.
- Bang Bang Mushrooms – Crispy battered oyster mushrooms work great as a plant-based option.
- Vegan Mayo & Dairy-Free Substitutes – Use vegan mayonnaise and plant-based yogurt to keep the Bang Bang sauce dairy-free.
4. Low-Carb & Keto Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version, make these modifications:
- Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for breading.
- Skip the panko breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds for a crunchy coating.
- Replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener in the sauce.
- Serve with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps instead of traditional sides.
5. Alternative Proteins for Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
If you want to switch up the protein, try these tasty substitutions:
- Bang Bang Shrimp – A classic alternative, using breaded, crispy shrimp instead of chicken.
- Bang Bang Salmon – Drizzle Bang Bang sauce over grilled or baked salmon for a seafood twist.
- Bang Bang Pork Chops – Use crispy pork cutlets instead of chicken.
- Bang Bang Beef Bites – Toss seared steak pieces in the Bang Bang sauce for a unique spin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What Is Bang Bang Chicken Made Of?
Bang Bang Chicken consists of bite-sized pieces of boneless chicken that are breaded, fried until crispy, and tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce.
Key Ingredients:
- Chicken: Typically boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Breading: A combination of flour, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.
- Bang Bang Sauce: A creamy, spicy sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
Tip: Bang Bang Chicken can also be baked or air-fried for a lighter version.
2. What Is Bang Bang Sauce Made Of?
Bang Bang Sauce is a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.
Basic Ingredients:
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a touch of sweetness and mild spice.
- Sriracha – Gives the sauce a little heat.
- Honey (Optional) – Balances the spice with extra sweetness.
- Lime Juice – Adds a slight tang for freshness.
Tip: Adjust the sriracha and honey to customize the sauce’s heat and sweetness.
3. Is Bang Bang Sauce Good on Chicken?
Yes! Bang Bang Sauce is one of the best sauces for chicken because it has the perfect balance of creaminess, spice, and sweetness.
Why It Works Well on Chicken:
Enhances crispy fried chicken – The creamy sauce clings to the crunchy breading.
Balances flavors – The sweet and spicy combination complements savory chicken.
Versatile – Works well as a dipping sauce, glaze, or dressing for different chicken dishes.
Tip: Bang Bang Sauce is also great for shrimp, tacos, rice bowls, and even roasted vegetables.
4. What Is Bang Bang Made Of?
The name “Bang Bang” originally comes from a traditional Sichuan dish (Bang Bang Ji) made with shredded poached chicken and a spicy sesame-peanut sauce.
However, the modern Bang Bang Chicken is made of:
- Crispy, breaded chicken bites
- A creamy Bang Bang Sauce with a spicy-sweet kick
- Garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds
Tip: The Westernized version of Bang Bang Chicken is closer to crispy popcorn chicken with a spicy mayo-based sauce, making it a popular appetizer or main dish.
Conclusion – A Crispy, Spicy, and Addictive Dish
Bang Bang Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown chicken and a bold, creamy sauce that delivers sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors in every bite. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, main course, or in wraps and rice bowls, this dish is guaranteed to impress.