Bang Bang Chicken

Introduction
Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy, flavorful dish known for its spicy, creamy sauce. Originally inspired by Sichuan cuisine, this dish has become a popular appetizer in Western restaurants. The combination of crispy fried chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce makes it an irresistible treat!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Place the chicken pieces in a bowl with the buttermilk and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and coat each piece in the flour mixture.
- Fry the chicken in small batches for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Drain on a plate lined with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth.
- Toss the fried chicken in the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, flavorful Bang Bang Chicken!
History
Bang Bang Chicken has its origins in China, where it was traditionally made with shredded chicken, sesame sauce, and chili oil. The modern version, made famous in the West, features crispy fried chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce. The dish gets its name from the traditional method of tenderizing chicken by pounding it with a stick.
Benefits
- High in Protein: Chicken provides essential protein for muscle growth and repair.
- Deliciously Crispy: The flour and cornstarch coating ensures a crunchy texture.
- Spicy & Flavorful: The Bang Bang sauce adds a sweet, tangy, and spicy kick.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha.
Formation (Plating & Serving)
For the best presentation, serve Bang Bang Chicken on a plate with a drizzle of extra sauce and a sprinkle of chopped green onions. Pair it with a side of coleslaw, lettuce wraps, or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition
Calories: 450 per serving
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fats: 20g
Conclusion
This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of crunch, spice, and creaminess. Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy this flavorful dish at home!