Name: Bang Bang Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup cornstarch or flour, for coating; 2 eggs, beaten; Oil, for frying; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 1–2 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp honey (optional); 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

This recipe is the perfect balance of crispy and creamy, spicy and sweet. It’s incredibly easy to make at home with simple ingredients, and it’s much better than takeout. The sauce is addictive, and the dish can be enjoyed in multiple ways—from a party snack to a full meal. Plus, it’s easily customizable based on your spice preference and dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Cornstarch or flour, for coating
Eggs, beaten
Oil, for frying
Mayonnaise
Sweet chili sauce
Sriracha or hot sauce
Honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
Green onions, for garnish
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Start by coating the chicken pieces. Dip each piece into beaten egg, then coat with cornstarch or flour until well covered.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the coated chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey if using. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Toss the crispy chicken pieces in the sauce until evenly coated.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Air fryer version: Skip the deep frying and air fry the chicken at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Baked version: Bake coated chicken pieces on a lined tray at 425°F for 20–25 minutes until crispy.
Healthier sauce: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter alternative.
Add vegetables: Serve with shredded cabbage, lettuce, or sliced cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.
Make it a meal: Serve over steamed rice or in lettuce wraps.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake or air fry the chicken at 350°F for 10 minutes to help restore its crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture crispy.
If storing separately, keep the sauce in a different container and toss before serving.

FAQs

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

It has a mild to medium heat level, depending on the amount of sriracha used. You can adjust the spice to your taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and coat the chicken in advance, but for best results, fry the chicken just before serving.

Can I use a different meat?

Yes, this recipe works well with shrimp, pork, or even tofu as a vegetarian option.

What kind of oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or cornstarch and ensuring your sauces are gluten-free.

Can I make this without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for a similar creamy texture.

How do I keep the chicken crispy after frying?

Drain on a wire rack and avoid covering with sauce until ready to serve.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

For best texture, use freshly cooked chicken. Pre-cooked chicken may become soggy when sauced.

What’s the difference between Bang Bang Chicken and Bang Bang Shrimp?

The sauce is typically the same, but the protein differs—shrimp for seafood lovers, chicken for a more hearty option.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the fried chicken separately and reheat in the oven before tossing in sauce.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make dish that combines crispy fried chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, it’s sure to be a hit. With flexible variations and make-ahead options, it fits perfectly into any meal plan. Give it a try and enjoy restaurant-quality flavor right from your kitchen.