If you’re looking for a dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and packs a punch of heat and sweetness, look no further than this Bang Bang Chicken recipe! These panko-crusted chicken tenderloins are fried to golden perfection and drizzled with a homemade bang bang sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.

Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, game day snacks, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe is sure to impress.

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a popular dish known for its crispy coating and the signature bang bang sauce—a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet dressing that elevates the flavor of the tender chicken. The dish gets its name from the “bang” of flavors that come together in perfect harmony. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to make at home with just a few pantry staples.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

1 cup (232 g) mayonnaise
½ cup (132 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
2 tablespoons honey

For the Chicken:

1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
1 cup (245 g) buttermilk
¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (64 g) cornstarch
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 tablespoon Sriracha
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups (216 g) panko breadcrumbs (plain)
Canola oil (for frying)
Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until well combined. Set this sauce aside—you’ll use it later to drizzle over the crispy chicken.

2. Marinate the Chicken

In a medium mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk until smooth. Add the chicken tenderloins to the batter and toss to coat evenly. Let the chicken marinate while you prepare the next steps.

3. Coat the Chicken

Place the panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. Working one piece at a time, remove a chicken tenderloin from the batter and gently shake off any excess. Dredge it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing slightly to make sure the coating adheres well. Place the coated chicken on a clean plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.

4. Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, pour about an inch of canola oil. Heat over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 365°F. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature—this helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.

5. Fry the Chicken

Carefully add the coated chicken tenderloins to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each piece for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Assemble and Serve

Place the fried chicken on a serving plate and drizzle generously with the prepared bang bang sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken

Keep the Oil Temperature Consistent: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature throughout frying. If the oil is too hot, the chicken may burn; if it’s too cool, it could turn out soggy.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
Customize Your Heat Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in both the sauce and batter depending on your spice tolerance.
Use Fresh Oil: For best results, use clean oil for frying to avoid any off flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I bake or air-fry Bang Bang Chicken instead of frying?

Yes! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F and place the breaded chicken on a greased baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For air-frying, cook at 375°F for 12–15 minutes or until crispy and fully cooked.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While Bang Bang Chicken is best served fresh and crispy, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Fry the chicken just before serving.

3. What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it as an appetizer with extra bang bang sauce for dipping.

4. Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. The crispy exterior combined with the creamy, spicy-sweet sauce creates an unforgettable flavor explosion in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and give this irresistible recipe a try today!