7 Reasons Why Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Will Blow Your Mind – A Must-Try Recipe!

Ever wondered about the secret to Bang Bang Chicken’s perfect crispiness and flavor? Get ready to be amazed by this simple yet delicious Asian dish. It’s ready in just 30 minutes and features crispy fried chicken in a sweet and spicy sauce. It’s a real treat!

this RECIPE

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a quick and tasty meal. It combines the crunch of fried chicken with a bold sauce. The chicken is soaked in buttermilk, coated in cornstarch, and then smothered in a 3-ingredient sauce. This sauce is made of mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. The result is a dish that’s both satisfying and addictive.

Key Takeaways

• Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a quick and easy Asian-inspired dish that’s ready in 30 minutes
• The dish features crispy fried chicken tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce made of mayo, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha
• The chicken is tenderized in buttermilk and coated in cornstarch for maximum crispiness
• The recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as an appetizer
• Customizable heat levels and dietary modifications make this dish accessible to all

What Is Bang Bang Chicken and Its Origins

Bang bang chicken is a favorite dish from Asia, with roots in Sichuan or Hunan cuisines of China. It starts with poaching or steaming chicken without bones. Then, it’s made tender by “banging” it with a wooden mallet or club.

This method is thought to have started in Hang Yang Ba, a small town in Sichuan. It’s famous for a special chicken breed used in this dish.

Traditional vs Modern Interpretations

The old way of making bang bang chicken is with poached or steamed chicken. It’s served with a spicy sauce called guai wei. This sauce is a mix of chile oil, black vinegar, toasted sesame paste, and Sichuan peppercorn.

In Western countries, the dish has changed. Now, it often has crispy, deep-fried chicken pieces. These are served with a sauce that’s a bit spicy, made with mayonnaise and chile.

Why It’s Called Bang Bang Chicken

The name “Bang Bang” comes from the sound of tenderizing the chicken. It’s made with a wooden mallet or club, or the sound of chopping it on a cutting board. This method shows the thrifty snack tradition of local Sichuan vendors.

They used to sell the dish piece by piece as a convenient street food.

“Bang bang chicken first entered the picture around the turn of the 20th century in the small Sichuan town of Hang Yang Ba, known for a unique local breed of chicken used in the dish.”

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

To make the ultimate Bang Bang Chicken, you need the right ingredients. At its core are chicken thighs – the key to tender and tasty bites. Buttermilk is used to tenderize the chicken, making it juicy.

For a crispy coating, use cornstarch or potato starch. These help create a crunchy outside when fried in neutral oil. Avocado, sunflower, grapeseed, peanut, vegetable, or canola oil work well.

Ingredient	Quantity
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs	1 lb
Buttermilk	1 cup
Cornstarch or potato starch	1 cup
Neutral oil (high smoke point)	2 cups
Salt	1 tsp
Garlic powder	1 tsp
Black pepper	1/2 tsp
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)	2

The Bang Bang sauce is made with Japanese mayonnaise or regular, sweet Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha sauce. Together, they offer creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors that make the dish irresistible.

The Secret Behind the Signature Bang Bang Sauce

The Bang Bang sauce is the heart of this dish. It mixes creamy mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, and spicy sriracha. The right mix is 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, and 2 tablespoons sriracha.

This blend offers a creamy, sweet, and spicy taste. It perfectly matches the crispy chicken.

Customizing Heat Levels

If you like it milder, you can cut down or skip the sriracha. Some people add honey and fresh lime juice for more flavor. You can also play with different hot sauces to change the heat level.

Ingredient	Quantity
Mayonnaise	1/2 cup
Sweet Chili Sauce	1/4 cup
Sriracha Sauce	2 tablespoons
Honey (optional)	1 tablespoon
Fresh Lime Juice (optional)	1 tablespoon

Getting the Bang Bang sauce just right is all about balance. By tweaking the sweet chili mayo and sriracha sauce amounts, you can make it just how you like it.

“The secret to the perfect Bang Bang sauce lies in the harmonious blend of creamy, sweet, and spicy elements.”

Preparing the Perfect Chicken Marinade

To get the signature tenderness and flavor in your crispy bang bang chicken, start with a great marinade. The key is buttermilk, which tenderizes the chicken by breaking down proteins.

Start by cutting your chicken into small pieces. Then, soak them in buttermilk for 10-15 minutes. The lactic acid in buttermilk makes the chicken juicy and tender.

If you can’t use buttermilk, try a mix of 1 cup soy milk and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. This combo works just as well for chicken tenderizing.

To add more flavor, add some seasonings to the marinade. Sweet paprika, onion powder, tamari or soy sauce, and brown sugar are great choices. These will make your crispy bang bang chicken taste amazing.

“The secret to incredibly tender, flavorful chicken lies in the marinade. Take the time to soak your chicken in this magical mixture, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s out of this world.”

With a perfect buttermilk marinade, you’re ready to make the ultimate crispy bang bang chicken. It will impress everyone you share it with.

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

To get that perfect crispy coating on Bang Bang Chicken, you need to master a few techniques. Follow these easy steps to get a crispy outside and a juicy, flavorful inside.

Coating Techniques for Maximum Crispiness

Begin by coating the chicken in a mix of cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Shake off any extra coating to avoid a heavy or doughy texture.

Double Frying Method

The double frying method is key for crispiness. First, fry the chicken at 325°F (165°C) for about 90 seconds. This step sets the coating and helps it stick to the chicken.

Then, raise the oil temperature to 350°F (175°C) and fry for another 90 seconds. This second fry makes the outside crispy while keeping the inside juicy.

These two steps are crucial for perfect Bang Bang Chicken. Proper coating and the double frying method will give you a crispy crust and a flavorful interior.

Best Cooking Methods and Temperature Tips

To make the perfect oven-baked bang bang chicken, keep the oven at 425°F (220°C). Brush the chicken with bang bang sauce before baking. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway for a golden-brown finish.

For stovetop frying, watch the oil temperature closely. It should be between 325°F-350°F (165°C-175°C). A cooking thermometer helps keep the oil at the right temperature for a crispy exterior.

• For extra crispiness, try the double-fry method. Fry at a lower temperature first, then at a higher one to seal in juices and get that crunch.
• A splatter screen is useful for frying. It keeps your kitchen clean and safe from hot oil splatters.

Whether you choose oven baking or stovetop frying, aim for perfectly cooked, golden-brown chicken every time.

Dietary Modifications and Substitutions

Craving the flavors of Bang Bang Chicken but have dietary restrictions? No worries! This dish can be adapted for different diets. You can make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or even vegetarian.

Gluten-Free Options

For a gluten-free Bang Bang Chicken, use gluten-free sweet chili sauce. Also, make sure the cornstarch and seasonings are gluten-free. This change lets you enjoy the flavors without gluten.

Dairy-Free Alternatives

To make a dairy-free version, use soy milk with a bit of lemon juice instead of buttermilk. This swap keeps the dish moist and tangy without dairy.

For a vegetarian option, use extra-firm tofu instead of chicken. It absorbs the marinade’s flavors and gets crispy when fried. Just adjust the cooking time to make sure it’s fully cooked.

Want a milder taste? You can lessen or skip the sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. Also, try potato starch instead of cornstarch for a smoother texture.

With a few simple changes, you can make this Bang Bang Chicken recipe fit your dietary needs. This way, everyone can enjoy its crispy, flavorful goodness.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a tasty Asian-inspired dish. It goes well with many side dishes. Try serving it over steamed rice or with a fresh salad. You can also add steamed broccoli, broccolini, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

For a more filling meal, serve it with mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash. Asian-inspired salads with bean sprouts or red onions are also great. You can make your Bang Bang Chicken bowl just how you like it.

Side Dish	Preparation Time	Cooking Time
Steamed Rice	5 minutes	15-20 minutes
Steamed Broccoli	10 minutes	5-7 minutes
Mixed Salad	15 minutes	N/A
Mashed Potatoes	20 minutes	15-20 minutes

The Bang Bang Chicken dish is very versatile. You can adjust it to fit your taste and diet. Its crispy texture and bold flavors make it a hit for any meal.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Leftover bang bang chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The microwave is the best way to reheat it, keeping the chicken crispy. Freezing is not recommended as it can ruin the crispiness.

You can marinate the chicken and make the bang bang sauce up to 48 hours ahead. Keep them separate in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This way, you can quickly fry the chicken and get fresh, crispy results.

To reheat, warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. Or, use a skillet over medium heat until it reaches 165°F. This method helps keep the chicken crispy and flavorful, just like when it’s first made.

FAQ

What is Bang Bang Chicken and where does it originate from?

Bang Bang Chicken is a dish from China, made with crispy fried chicken and a sweet, spicy sauce. It started in Sichuan or Hunan, where chicken was poached and served with a spicy sauce. Now, a crispy version is popular in the West.

Why is it called “Bang Bang” Chicken?

The name “Bang Bang” comes from the sound of tenderizing chicken with a mallet. It’s also from chopping the chicken loudly on a cutting board.

What are the key ingredients in Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

You need skinless chicken thighs or breasts, buttermilk, and cornstarch or potato starch for coating. Use a neutral oil, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and green onion for garnish. For the sauce, you’ll need mayo, sweet Thai chili sauce, and sriracha.

How do you make the Bang Bang sauce?

Mix 1/2 cup mayo, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, and 2 tablespoons sriracha for the sauce. Adjust the sriracha for more heat. Some add honey and lime juice for extra flavor.

How do you tenderize the chicken for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

Marinate diced chicken in buttermilk for 10-15 minutes. Buttermilk’s lactic acid makes the chicken tender. For a dairy-free option, use soy milk with lemon juice.

What’s the secret to achieving maximum crispiness?

Dredge the chicken in cornstarch, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Double fry at 325°F for 90 seconds, then at 350°F for 90 seconds. This method gives a crispy outside and juicy inside.

Can I bake the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken instead of frying?

Yes, baking is a great alternative. Preheat to 425°F, brush with Bang Bang sauce, and bake for 25-30 minutes.

What dietary modifications can I make to the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe?

For gluten-free, use gluten-free sweet chili sauce. Replace buttermilk with soy milk and lemon juice for dairy-free. Use extra-firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Reduce or omit sriracha for less spice.

What are some good side dish options for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

Serve with steamed rice, mixed salads, or noodles. Try steamed broccoli, broccolini, or carrots. Mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash are also great.

How do I store and reheat leftover Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave. Freezing is not recommended as it loses crispiness. Marinate chicken and prepare sauce up to 48 hours in advance.

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