Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe is both tasty and easy to make. I’ll guide you through each step, from marinating the chicken to creating a delicious sauce that packs a punch. Whether you prefer an extra crispy coating or a milder flavor, I have tips to help you achieve your perfect dish. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
When it comes to making Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, having the right ingredients is key. Here’s what you need for this tasty dish:
– Chicken
– 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Marinade Components
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Coating Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for desired spice level)
– Garnishing Items
– 2 green onions, finely sliced
– Sesame seeds
Gather these ingredients before you start. They will help you create a dish that is crispy, creamy, and full of flavor. If you want the full recipe, check it out in the article!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Place the pieces in a medium bowl and add the buttermilk. Mix well to ensure all pieces are covered. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step makes the chicken juicy and flavorful.
Preparing the Coating
In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s blended. This dry mixture will give the chicken a crispy and tasty crust.
Cooking Process
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Use a thermometer to check the oil should reach 350°F (175°C). To test the oil, sprinkle a bit of the dry mix in the pan. If it fizzes, the oil is ready. Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Let the excess buttermilk drip off. Coat each chicken piece well in the flour mixture. Carefully place the coated chicken in the hot oil. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken turns golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to move the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate. This helps absorb any extra oil.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined. This sauce adds a creamy and spicy kick to the chicken.
Tossing and Serving the Chicken
In a large bowl, add the fried chicken pieces. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and toss gently. Make sure every piece is coated in the sauce. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture. Enjoy your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crispy Texture
To get that delightful crunch, you need to focus on the coating. Use a mix of flour and cornstarch. This blend gives the chicken a golden crust. Make sure the chicken pieces are dry before coating them. After marinating, let them sit for a few minutes. This helps the coating stick better. For extra crunch, double coat the chicken. Dip it in the buttermilk again, then back into the dry mix.
Frying Techniques for Best Results
Temperature is key when frying. Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the chicken burns. If it’s too cool, the chicken absorbs too much oil. Fry in small batches. This keeps the oil temperature steady. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan. This will ensure even cooking and crispiness. Use a slotted spoon to drain excess oil after frying.
Adjusting Spice Levels in Bang Bang Sauce
The Bang Bang sauce is where you can play with flavors. Start with half a tablespoon of sriracha for mild heat. Taste the sauce and add more if you like it spicier. Sweet chili sauce adds sweetness, balancing the heat. You can also try other hot sauces, like chili garlic sauce. Be creative, and adjust until it suits your taste.
Variations
Alternative Proteins (e.g., shrimp, tofu)
You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks quickly and has a nice texture. Use large shrimp and coat them the same way as chicken. Tofu is a great option for a plant-based meal. Press the tofu to remove water, then cut it into bite-sized cubes. Coat and fry like the chicken. Both options taste great with the Bang Bang sauce.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
To make this recipe gluten-free, just change a few ingredients. Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. Cornstarch is already gluten-free, so that works perfectly. Make sure your mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce are also gluten-free. Follow the same steps to fry the chicken or other proteins. You’ll still get that crispy, flavorful bite.
Flavor Variations for the Sauce
You can change the Bang Bang sauce for different tastes. Try adding lime juice for a zesty kick. Honey can add sweetness if you like it sweeter. If you want more heat, add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes. Mix in garlic or ginger for more depth. Feel free to play with flavors to find your favorite version of the sauce.
Storage Info
Proper Cooling and Storage Techniques
Once your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken cools, store it right away. Place the chicken in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. Make sure the chicken is not hot when you pack it. This helps avoid condensation and sogginess.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your chicken, use an oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s hot and crispy again. If you use a microwave, the chicken may lose its crunch. Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
Freezing and Thawing Tips
If you want to freeze the chicken, do it as soon as it cools. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it in the oven for the best crunch. Avoid thawing at room temperature to keep it safe.
FAQs
What is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a fun and tasty dish. It features bite-sized chicken pieces that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The chicken gets marinated in buttermilk for extra flavor. It is then coated in a mix of flour and cornstarch before frying. The creamy Bang Bang sauce, made with mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce, adds a spicy kick. It’s perfect for sharing at dinner parties or game day.
How can I make it less spicy?
To make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken less spicy, you can adjust the sauce. Use less sriracha or skip it entirely. You can also blend the mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce without the sriracha. Adding more mayonnaise can help cool down the heat. Taste the sauce as you go to find your perfect balance.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time. Just mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a bowl. Store it in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you save time when you’re ready to serve the chicken. Just give it a quick stir before using.
What to serve with Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with steamed rice or fresh lettuce wraps. A side of pickled vegetables adds a nice crunch. You can also offer extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping. This creates a fun and interactive meal.
How long does leftovers last?
Leftovers of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken can last for up to three days. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat it in the oven for the best crispiness. Just remember, the sauce may separate, so stir it before serving again.
Full Recipe and Where to Find It
For the full recipe, including detailed steps and additional tips, check the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken section above. This will guide you through each part of making this delicious dish.
In this post, we covered how to make crispy Bang Bang chicken. We explored ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and essential tips for perfecting your dish. I shared ideas for variations and storage options, making it easy to customize your meal. Remember, cooking should be fun and tasty! Whether you stick with chicken or try shrimp, the key is in the flavors. Enjoy your cooking journey and serve up something delicious!
