Introduction to Bang Bang Chicken
If you're looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, Bang Bang Chicken is an absolute game changer. This quick and easy dish brings together tender pieces of chicken coated in a crispy panko crust and tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for a busy work week or a cozy weekend meal, it combines comfort with a satisfying crunch.
Why is Bang Bang Chicken so special? It's all about the flavor punch! The sweet chili sauce and Sriracha blend harmoniously, striking a balance that’s sweet, tangy, and spicy. Plus, this dish is easy to customize—add a side of veggies or serve it over rice to make it a complete meal.
With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can whip up a restaurant-quality meal right at home. Did you know that cooking at home can save you money and often be healthier than eating out? You can find more about the benefits of homemade meals here. So grab your apron and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this flavorful Bang Bang Chicken!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken
Creating a savory dish like Bang Bang Chicken starts with the right ingredients. This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Here’s what you’ll need:
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and is the base for the sauce.
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a hint of tang.
- 5 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce, divided: For that signature spiciness, adjust to your heat preference!
- 2 large eggs: Essential for the coating to stick to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps create a crispy outer layer.
- 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs: Offers a light, crunchy texture.
- 1 ¾ teaspoons kosher salt, divided: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a warm, savory depth.
- 1 ¾ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces: The star of your dish.
- 1 cup neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola: For frying.
- Thinly sliced scallions, for serving (optional): A fresh garnish that adds a pop of color.
Ready to whip up this delightful dish? Make sure you have everything hashed out before diving into the cooking process! If you're curious about some tips and tricks for meal prep, check out this meal planning guide for more insights.
Preparing Bang Bang Chicken
Creating Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas and exciting flavors. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you whip up this tasty dish effortlessly!
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
The heart of any great Bang Bang Chicken is, of course, the sauce. In a large bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, and 4 teaspoons of Sriracha. This combination creates a creamy, spicy dressing that has just the right amount of sweetness. Once you’ve mixed it all together, transfer half of the sauce to a smaller bowl for serving later—the perfect accompaniment for dipping!
For additional tips, check out this article on creating amazing sauces that can add perks to your weekly meal prep.
Prepare the Breading Station
Next, it’s time to set up your breading station. Whisk together 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and 1 teaspoon Sriracha in a medium shallow bowl or pie plate. This mixture acts as a sticky base for the breadcrumbs. In a different shallow bowl, mix 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Panko breadcrumbs lend an unbeatable crunch, giving your Bang Bang Chicken that desired texture.
Season and Coat the Chicken
Before you start breading, make sure to season your 1 ¾ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with the remaining ¾ teaspoon kosher salt. Take a few pieces and dip them into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, transfer the chicken to the panko mixture. Make sure each piece is generously coated by pressing down gently; this step really enhances that delightful crunch!
Fry the Chicken to Perfection
Now comes the exciting part! Heat 1 cup of neutral oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. To test if your oil is ready, drop in a tiny piece of bread—if it sizzles, you’re good to go! Fry about 8 pieces of chicken at a time, flipping halfway through until they turn golden brown and are cooked through—this should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer them onto a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Toss the Chicken in Sauce
Once your chicken is fried to crispy perfection, toss it into that fabulous Bang Bang sauce you made earlier. Give it a good mix until every piece is well-coated. For added flair, garnish with thinly sliced scallions, if you like. Serve with the reserved sauce on the side for dipping.
This delicious Bang Bang Chicken is ready to impress anyone at your table. For suggestions on pairing this dish, check out these side dishes that complement it beautifully! Enjoy your meal prep, and remember to savor every bite!
Variations on Bang Bang Chicken
Spicy Bang Bang Chicken with Extra Heat
For those who crave that extra kick, consider adding additional Sriracha or even a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. This fiery twist will elevate the traditional bang bang chicken to new heights! You can also spice up the panko breadcrumbs by mixing in some crushed red pepper flakes before coating your chicken. Your taste buds will thank you! If you love to experiment with flavors, try adding some Thai chili paste for an authentic Southeast Asian flair.
Healthier Baked Bang Bang Chicken Option
Looking to lighten things up a bit? Opt for a healthier baked version of this classic dish. Simply follow the same preparation steps, but instead of frying, place the coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. Not only will you cut down on oil, but you’ll still enjoy that crispy texture we all love. Pair the healthier bang bang chicken with a fresh salad for a balanced meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Cooking Tips for Bang Bang Chicken
Ensure Even Cooking
For perfectly succulent bang bang chicken, ensure your chicken pieces are uniform in size, ideally around 1 inch. Even cooking is crucial for achieving that tender bite. Fry them in small batches to help maintain the oil temperature, which should be around 350°F. This helps in ensuring they cook through without drying out or burning. Don’t hesitate to use a thermometer for precision!
Avoiding Soggy Breading
Nothing ruins the crunch of bang bang chicken faster than soggy breading. To keep your chicken crispy, make sure to flour and coat it in panko thoroughly. When frying, let excess oil drip off before placing it on paper towels. You can also reheat leftovers in the oven to restore that nice crunch. Want more tips? Check out Serious Eats for expert advice!
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken
Pairing with Rice or Noodles
One of the best ways to enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken is to serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or stir-fried noodles. The creamy, spicy sauce complements the chicken wonderfully, while the rice or noodles soak up the delicious flavors. For a quick meal, try jasmine rice or soba noodles for a unique twist. Feeling adventurous? Check out this guide on different types of rice for inspiration!
Serving on a Salad for Extra Crunch
If you're looking to add some freshness to your meal, Bang Bang Chicken makes an excellent topping for salads. Toss together some mixed greens, crunchy vegetables, and a splash of vinaigrette. Add the crispy chicken on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture. This not only elevates the dish but also makes it a fantastic option for meal prep—perfect for busy weeks! You might also want to explore more salad ideas at Salad Recipes.
Try these serving suggestions, and elevate your dining experience with Bang Bang Chicken!
Time Breakdown for Bang Bang Chicken
Preparation time
Getting ready for your Bang Bang Chicken adventure takes about 20 minutes. This includes mixing your delicious sauces and coating the chicken pieces with seasonings and panko breadcrumbs. Quick steps will keep you engaged in the kitchen!
Cooking time
The actual cooking time is around 15 minutes. Frying the chicken in small batches ensures that each piece becomes perfectly golden and crispy. You’ll love that satisfying sizzle!
Total time
In total, you’re looking at approximately 35 minutes from start to finish. Before you know it, your mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken will be ready to serve, making it a fantastic option for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
For more insights on meal prep and cooking techniques, check out EatingWell or Serious Eats.
Nutritional Facts for Bang Bang Chicken
When diving into the delicious world of Bang Bang Chicken, it's essential to consider the nutritional content. Knowing what you’re eating helps you appreciate this flavorful dish even more!
Calories
A serving of bang bang chicken typically contains around 400-500 calories, depending largely on portion size and specific ingredients used in preparation.
Protein
This dish is a fantastic protein source, offering about 30-35 grams per serving, thanks to the generous portion of chicken. Incorporating protein into your meals is vital for muscle repair and overall health.
Sodium
Keep an eye on sodium intake as well; a serving can have approximately 900-1100 mg of sodium. This mainly comes from sauces and seasonings, so consider adjusting these if you’re watching your sodium levels.
For more detailed information on nutrition and balanced eating, check out resources from the Nutrition.gov and Harvard Health. Understanding your food will help you savor every bite of your Bang Bang Chicken!
FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bang bang chicken sauce up to two days in advance. Just mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha as the recipe suggests, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, enhancing your dish!
What can I substitute for Sriracha?
If you’re not a fan of Sriracha or simply don’t have it on hand, there are plenty of other options. Feel free to swap it out for Thai chili paste, harissa, or even a splash of hot sauce like Tabasco. Each will bring a unique flavor profile to your bang bang chicken while keeping that spicy kick intact.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is simple! Keep the fried chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. If you’ve tossed the chicken in the sauce, be mindful—the breading might soften. Ideally, enjoy your bang bang chicken within four days for the best quality. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken on a baking sheet before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag.
For more tips on food storage, check out the USDA’s Food Safety Guidelines for trusted advice on keeping your meals fresh.
Conclusion on Bang Bang Chicken
In summary, Bang Bang Chicken combines crunchy textures with a spicy-sweet sauce that’s absolutely irresistible! Perfect for casual dinners or impressing guests, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try for a flavorful twist on chicken night!
Bang Bang Chicken
Equipment
- large bowl
- Medium shallow bowl or pie plate
- Second shallow bowl or pie plate
- Large high-sided skillet
- rimmed baking sheet
- wire rack
Ingredients
Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 5 teaspoons Sriracha hot sauce divided
Chicken
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1.75 teaspoons kosher salt divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1.75 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup neutral oil such as vegetable or canola
- Thinly sliced scallions for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Stir ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, and 4 teaspoons of the Sriracha together in a large bowl. Transfer half of the sauce to a small bowl for serving.
- Whisk the remaining 1 teaspoon Sriracha, 2 large eggs, and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour together in a medium shallow bowl or pie plate. Stir 2 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of the kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder together in a second shallow bowl or pie plate.
- Season 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast pieces with the remaining ¾ teaspoon kosher salt. Working with a few pieces at a time, add the chicken to the egg mixture, turn to coat, then transfer to the panko mixture. Gently press and flip the chicken into the panko mixture until completely coated. Place on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer.
- Heat 1 cup neutral oil in a large high-sided skillet over medium heat until 350°F. Line a second baking sheet with a wire rack and/or paper towels. Fry about 8 pieces of chicken at a time: Add to the hot oil and fry, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and golden-brown all over, 3 to 5 minutes total. Transfer to the rack or paper towels.
- Transfer the chicken to the large bowl of sauce and toss until coated. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions if using. Serve with the remaining sauce drizzled on the top or on the side for dipping.
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