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Crispy Bang Bang Chicken tenders drizzled with sweet and spicy sauce, garnished with parsley and sesame seeds.

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken – Sweet, Spicy & Perfectly Crunchy!

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Introduction

The first time I made crispy bang bang chicken, I was hooked from the first bite. The golden, crunchy coating combined with the sweet and spicy bang bang sauce created an explosion of flavors. I had always loved Bang Bang Shrimp, but using the same irresistible sauce on crispy chicken was a total game-changer!

Now, this recipe is a go-to for game nights, family dinners, and even quick snacks. Whether deep-fried, air-fried, or oven-baked, this dish delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. If you love crispy, saucy, and slightly spicy chicken, this recipe is for you!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

✔️ Ultra Crispy Coating – Thanks to panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch
✔️ Sweet & Spicy Bang Bang Sauce – The perfect balance of heat and sweetness
✔️ Easy to Make – Fry, air-fry, or bake for a crispy finish
✔️ Great for Any Occasion – Serve as an appetizer, snack, or main dish

Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

For the Chicken:

  • 1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 1 tbsp Sriracha
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Canola oil (for frying)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tsp Sriracha (or more for extra heat)
  • 2 tbsp honey

Step-by-Step: How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

  1. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
  2. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  2. Add chicken tenders and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Place panko breadcrumbs in a separate shallow dish.
  4. One by one, remove chicken from the batter, shaking off excess, then coat with panko, pressing slightly to adhere.
Chicken tenders being coated in buttermilk, flour mixture, and panko breadcrumbs for crispy Bang Bang Chicken.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 inch of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 365°F.
  2. Working in batches, fry chicken for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken tenders frying in hot oil, turning golden brown and crunchy.

Step 4: Toss in Bang Bang Sauce & Serve

  1. Drizzle bang bang sauce over crispy chicken or toss them in a bowl to fully coat.
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy!
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken drizzled with a creamy, spicy sauce, garnished with sesame seeds and fresh parsley.

Air Fryer & Oven Instructions

🔥 Air Fryer Method:

  • Follow the same steps up to frying.
  • Spray chicken with cooking spray and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Drizzle with bang bang sauce and enjoy!

🔥 Oven-Baked Method:

  • Preheat oven to 425°F.
  • Place coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Spray with cooking spray and bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Drizzle with sauce and serve!

Best Sides & Serving Ideas

🍚 Steamed Rice – Perfect for absorbing extra bang bang sauce.
🥗 Crisp Coleslaw – A refreshing side to balance the heat.
🍟 Sweet Potato Fries – Complements the spicy-sweet flavors.
🥢 Lettuce Wraps – A light, crunchy alternative to serving with rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Skipping the Panko Breadcrumbs – They ensure extra crispiness.
🚫 Overcrowding the Pan – Fry in batches for an even golden crust.
🚫 Using Cold Oil – Always preheat oil to 365°F for the crispiest texture.

FAQs About Crispy Bang Bang Chicken

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Store fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven or air fryer before serving.

2. Is Bang Bang Chicken spicy?

It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less Sriracha.

3. What’s the best way to reheat crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to keep it crispy.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

5. What other proteins work with Bang Bang Sauce?

Try it with shrimp, tofu, salmon, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option!

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is the ultimate sweet, spicy, and crunchy dish that’s perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course. Whether you fry, air-fry, or bake, the golden crunch and bold flavors make it a guaranteed hit. Try this easy recipe today and bring restaurant-quality crispy chicken to your kitchen!

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