Are you ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy? Look no further than the deliciously enticing Bang Bang Chicken. This dish has taken the internet by storm, and for a good reason! It perfectly combines crispy chicken bites with a sweet and spicy sauce that will have everyone begging for seconds. Buckle up as we explore this delightful recipe and everything you need to know to make it shine in your kitchen!
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Bang Bang Chicken. First and foremost, it’s downright scrumptious! The crispy exterior and tender chicken inside create a satisfying textural contrast that is hard to resist. The accompanying sauce, with its sweet, tangy, and spicy notes, elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Additionally, Bang Bang Chicken is perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or wanting to impress your date, this dish will not disappoint. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
So, let’s not wait any longer. Dive into this simple yet rewarding recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite!
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Cooling Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken
Getting started with Bang Bang Chicken is simple and enjoyable! Follow these straightforward steps to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Directions:
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with cornstarch, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each piece of chicken first in cornstarch, then dip in egg, and finally coat in panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and lime juice to create the sauce.
- Drizzle the sauce over the fried chicken and serve hot.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken
Bang Bang Chicken is highly versatile! You can serve it as a main course or as a snack. Here are some fun serving ideas:
- With Rice: Serve the crispy chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice or fried rice for a more filling meal.
- With Salads: Toss the chicken on top of your favorite salad for a crunchy, protein-packed option.
- As Appetizers: Place the chicken on skewers and serve with toothpicks for easy handling at parties.
- With Dipping Sauce: Serve alongside extra sauce for dipping; this way, everyone can enjoy the punchy flavor as much as they desire.
How to Store Bang Bang Chicken
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be a miracle because it’s so good), store your Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3 days. However, for the crispiest results, it’s best to reheat in an oven rather than a microwave. This will help maintain the crunchiness of the chicken.
To freeze it, you can place cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat in the oven until it’s warmed through and crispy again.
Tips to Make Bang Bang Chicken
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Double-Dip for Extra Crispiness: For a crunchier coating, dip the chicken back into the egg and then into the panko breadcrumbs again before frying.
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Use High-Quality Oil: Opt for oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly without burning.
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Watch the Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry but not too hot that it burns the coating. You can test it by dropping a small piece of chicken in; it should sizzle immediately.
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Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness or spiciness of the sauce to your preference. You can add more or less sriracha or even some chopped herbs for a fresh twist.
Variation
If you want to change things up, consider these variations:
- Bang Bang Shrimp: Swap out the chicken for shrimp. Use the same method, and you’ll have a delectable seafood version!
- Air-Fried Option: For a healthier twist, try using an air fryer to cook the chicken instead of frying it in oil.
- Vegetarian Bang Bang: Replace chicken with cauliflower florets for a delicious vegetarian option. Simply follow the same breading and frying technique.
Tips for Success
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. This makes dinner time a breeze!
- Uniform Size: Try to cut the chicken into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
- Hot Oil is Key: Ensure your oil is hot before adding chicken. This quick cooking helps seal the coating.
How Many Servings
This recipe makes about 4 servings, perfect for a small gathering or a fulfilling family meal.
Calories and Nutrition Facts per Serving
- Calories: Approximately 400
- Protein: 25g
- Fats: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
Health Benefits of Bang Bang Chicken
While Bang Bang Chicken may not be a health food, it can be part of a well-rounded diet when enjoyed in moderation. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle maintenance and repair. Additionally, the use of fresh ingredients keeps it more wholesome compared to processed foods.
Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?
Yes! Bang Bang Chicken can be enjoyed by individuals over 60. However, it’s essential to consider any dietary restrictions or health conditions. Adjust the amount of salt to lower sodium content and pair with vegetables for added vitamins and fiber.
FAQs
1. Can I make Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cornstarch, and be sure to check all other ingredients for gluten content.
2. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just stir before serving.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add more sriracha to the sauce or even toss the fried chicken in a spicy chili oil after cooking for an extra kick!
Now that you have everything you need to know, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy every crunchy, saucy bite of your homemade Bang Bang Chicken!
