Bang Bang Chicken Recipe: 7 Reasons It’s Your New Favorite Dinner

Bang bang, chicken recipe lovers, get ready. This dish is everything you want when you’re craving something crispy, creamy, spicy, and a little bit sweet—all at the same time. Whether you’ve had it at a restaurant or seen it trending online, bang bang chicken recipe is one of those recipes that instantly hits the spot.

At its core, it’s fried or baked chicken (usually bite-sized) tossed in a smooth, spicy mayo-based sauce. But this dish is more than just heat and crunch. It’s a perfect balance of texture and flavor, rich without being too heavy and spicy and without being overwhelming. It’s also surprisingly easy to pull off at home with a few everyday ingredients and a little kitchen confidence.

This article breaks it all down: from the must-have ingredients and step-by-step instructions to pro tips, storage tricks, seasonal spins, and ideal pairings. If you’re aiming to master the bang-bang chicken recipe for dinner, parties, or meal prep, you’ll find all the help you need right here.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are a lot of fried chicken recipes out there, but few bring the satisfaction that Bang Bang Chicken recipe does. Here’s why this one stands out—and why it’s about to become one of your go-to meals:

• Flavor-Packed but Simple: Despite its bold flavor, this dish comes together with basic pantry ingredients. That signature sauce? Just mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a dash of vinegar or lemon juice.
• Crispy Outside, Tender Inside: The chicken is usually tossed in cornstarch or a light batter before hitting the pan or oven. The result? Golden, crispy bites that hold up perfectly to the creamy sauce.
• Flexible Cooking Options: Fry it, air fry it, or bake it—this recipe adapts to your cooking style and tools. You don’t need to fry deep to get that satisfying crunch.
• Crowd-Pleaser Appeal: Perfect as a party appetizer, dinner main, or quick lunch. People tend to come back for seconds and ask for the recipe. It’s just that addictive.
• Customizable Heat Level: Make it mild, or turn up the fire. The spice level is easy to control by adjusting the sriracha or using a milder hot sauce alternative.
• Great for Meal Prep: Bang bang chicken holds up well in the fridge and is easy to reheat, making it ideal for lunches or fast weeknight dinners.
• Pairs With Everything: This dish doesn’t need much to shine, but it’s incredible with rice, noodles, lettuce wraps, or a crunchy slaw on the side. You can even turn it into a wrap or sandwich.
• Kid and Adult Friendly: Tweak the spice, and it’s a hit with just about everyone at the table. The creamy sauce and crispy chicken are familiar and comforting while still being exciting enough for adventurous eaters.
• One-Bowl Sauce, Big Flavor: The bang bang sauce takes under a minute to mix. No cooking is required. Just stir and coat. It’s also easy to scale up if you’re feeding a crowd.
• Restaurant-Level Quality at Home: You get all the indulgence of a takeout favorite with none of the cost or unknown ingredients. Plus, making it yourself means you control the freshness and quality.

One of the best parts about this bang-bang chicken recipe is that it feels like a treat without demanding too much from you. It’s fast, satisfying, and hits all the right flavor notes without needing a lot of prep or exotic ingredients.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a weekend get-together, or just because you need a comfort meal that delivers, this recipe’s got you. The sauce is the hero, the crunch is unbeatable, and the whole thing comes together in under an hour.

Detailed Ingredients and Instructions

Let’s walk through exactly how to make this bang-bang chicken recipe from start to finish. No fancy tools. No complicated steps. Just a straightforward process with real results.

The Core Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Chicken: Go for boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy, but either works. Cut them into bite-sized chunks, so they cook quickly and evenly.
• Cornstarch or Flour: This forms a crispy coating. Cornstarch gives a lighter, crisper texture, while all-purpose flour results in a more traditional crust. You can even do a 50/50 mix if you want the best of both.
• Eggs: Used to help the coating stick and add richness. Just beat them up in a bowl for a simple dredge.
• Oil: You’ll need some for frying or brushing on if you’re baking. Use something neutral like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil.

Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise: This is the creamy base. You can use standard mayo, Japanese mayo for a richer flavor, or even a lighter version if you prefer.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: The key ingredient that gives this recipe its signature sweet-and-spicy vibe. It’s easy to find in the Asian food aisle at most grocery stores.
• Sriracha (or other hot sauce): This is where the heat comes in. Add more or less depending on your spice preference.
• Lime or Rice Vinegar: A splash of acidity balances the richness and brightens the whole dish. Lemon juice also works if that’s what you have.
• Optional Add-ins: A pinch of garlic powder smoked paprika, or honey can round out the flavor even more. These aren’t mandatory, but they do add layers.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step One: Prep the Chicken

Cut your chicken into even, bite-sized chunks. Pat them dry with a paper towel—this helps the coating stick better and crisp up.

Step Two: Set Up a Breading Station

In one bowl, beat your eggs. In another, pour in the cornstarch or flour (or a mix of both). You can season the dry mix with a bit of salt, pepper, or garlic powder if you like.

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg first, then dredge it in the dry mix until fully coated. Shake off the excess.

Step Three: Cook the Chicken

If frying: Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot (you can test it with a tiny piece of coating—it should bubble and sizzle), add the chicken in batches. Don’t crowd the pan. Cook for a few minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel to drain.

If baking: Preheat your oven to a high temp—around four hundred twenty-five degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil and place a wire rack on top if you have one. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Lightly spray or brush them with oil. Bake for about twenty to twenty-five minutes, flipping once, until crispy and fully cooked.

If using an air fryer, Set it to about four hundred degrees. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spray with oil and cook for around twelve to fifteen minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step Four: Make the Sauce

While the chicken’s cooking, mix up the bang bang sauce. Combine mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a splash of vinegar or lime juice in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Taste and tweak. Want more heat? Add extra sriracha. Need it sweeter? Add a touch more chili sauce or a drizzle of honey.

Step Five: Toss and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked and crispy, let it cool for a minute or two. Then, toss it in the bang bang sauce, coating every piece. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping if you prefer to keep the chicken extra crunchy.

Tips, Variations, and Storage Options

Every home cook has their tricks, and this bang-bang chicken recipe has plenty of room for smart adjustments. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, prepping for the week, or just switching things up, these tips and variations will help.

Pro Cooking Tips:

• Dry the Chicken Well: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Always pat your chicken dry before coating. It helps the breading stick and ensures a crunchier finish.
• Use a Wire Rack: When baking or draining fried chicken, place it on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This keeps the bottom from getting soggy and preserves the texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temp and makes the coating greasy. Cook in small batches and give each piece space.
• Serve Right Away: For maximum crunch, serve the chicken immediately after saucing. If it sits too long, the coating softens. Want extra crunch? Serve sauce on the side as a dip.
• Cut Even Pieces: Uniform chunks cook evenly and finish at the same time. This avoids dry spots or undercooked centers.

Easy Variations to Try:

• Make It Lighter: Skip frying and go for the oven or air fryer. You still get a solid crunch with way less oil. Use low-fat mayo and reduce the sweet chili sauce for fewer calories.
• Go Gluten-Free: Swap cornstarch for rice flour or certified gluten-free flour. Double-check your sauces for hidden gluten ingredients.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or even a dash of hot oil to the sauce if you want to crank up the heat. Or toss in chopped jalapeños with the coating.
• Use Other Proteins: This sauce works on shrimp, tofu, cauliflower, or even salmon. Same process, different main. Just adjust cook time as needed.
• Make It Vegan: Use plant-based mayo, coat tofu or cauliflower in a seasoned batter, and bake or fry. You get all the sauce’s flavor without animal products.
• Add a Twist to the Sauce: Try blending in garlic, sesame oil, or a splash of soy sauce. You can also swirl in peanut butter for a Thai-style spin.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

• Storing Leftovers: Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Store the sauce separately if you can.
• Reheating: To reheat, use the oven or air fryer to bring back the crispiness. Microwave works, too, but it’ll be softer. For the oven, bake at three seventy-five degrees for around ten minutes.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked, un-sauced chicken pieces. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

Batch Cooking Tip:

Make a double batch of the chicken and freeze half. That way, you’ve always got some ready to go. Just make the sauce fresh each time for the best results.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make a solid bang-bang chicken recipe, but a few reliable tools will make the job easier and the results better.

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two—one for your egg wash and one for the coating. A third for the sauce keeps things organized.
• Wire Rack: Essential for cooling the fried chicken or baking it without soggy bottoms. Allows air to circulate and helps maintain crispness.
• Skillet or Frying Pan: If frying, go with a deep, heavy-bottomed pan like cast iron. It holds heat well and keeps the oil temperature stable.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Flipping and removing chickens is easy and safe. A slotted spoon also helps drain off excess oil.
• Whisk or Spoon for Sauce: Use something sturdy to mix the bang bang sauce until smooth and fully blended.

If you have an air fryer, that’s a bonus tool that works great for this recipe, too. No need to deep-fry if you’d rather keep things lighter and easier to clean up.

Related Recipes

Once you’ve mastered this bang-bang chicken recipe, you’ll probably want more dishes with that same crave-worthy flavor balance. Here are some ideas to keep the momentum going.

• Bang Bang Shrimp: A popular appetizer at many chain restaurants, this uses the same sauce but coats crispy shrimp instead. Light, juicy, and full of flavor.
• Crispy Korean Chicken Bites: Sticky, spicy-sweet Korean-style chicken made with gochujang and garlic. Another quick, bold dish that delivers big on flavor.
• Sweet Chili Cauliflower: A vegetarian alternative that’s just as addictive. Roast or air fry cauliflower florets and toss them in a similar bang-bang-style sauce.
• Spicy Chicken Wraps: Use leftover bang bang chicken in a wrap with lettuce, cucumbers, and maybe a drizzle of extra sauce. Perfect for lunch or meal prep.
• Thai Chicken Sliders: Mini chicken sandwiches with slaw, cilantro, and bang bang sauce. Serve on brioche buns for a party hit.

Each of these recipes builds on the same flavor profile and gives you a chance to stretch your skills while keeping things fun and fast.

Pairing/Serving Suggestions

The beauty of this bang bang chicken recipe is how versatile it is when it comes to serving. Whether you want a full dinner spread or a light appetizer, there’s a way to plate it perfectly.

• Serve It Over Rice: Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice soaks up all that sauce and makes the dish more filling. Add steamed broccoli or bok choy on the side for balance.
• In Lettuce Wraps: Use crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves as a wrap. It’s fresh, low-carb, and adds a crunch that complements the creamy chicken.
• Toss in a Salad: Turn it into a protein-packed salad with shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, and a drizzle of extra sauce as dressing.
• Stuff It in Tacos: Use warm tortillas and top with slaw, avocado, and cilantro. The creamy heat of the chicken pairs surprisingly well with Mexican-style toppings.
• As a Party Appetizer: Stick a toothpick in each piece and serve it on a platter with extra bang bang sauce for dipping. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• With Noodles: Cold soba or rice noodles tossed with a light sesame dressing make an excellent base for the saucy chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bang-bang chicken recipe ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best to store the chicken and sauce separately. Reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer to bring back its crispiness, then toss in the sauce just before serving.

What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?

You can make a quick sub by mixing honey or sugar with a bit of hot sauce and rice vinegar. It won’t be identical, but it’ll work in a pinch.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick, mostly from the sriracha. You can adjust the heat up or down depending on your preference.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely. Baking or air frying works well and is healthier. Just make sure to oil the chicken lightly so it gets crispy.

What’s the best mayo to use?

Any mayo works, but Japanese mayo (like Kewpie) adds an extra rich, umami boost. Light mayo is also fine if you’re cutting calories.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a general breakdown of the bang bang chicken recipe per serving. Keep in mind these numbers can vary depending on your exact ingredients and portion size.

• Calories: About 430
• Protein: Around 25g
• Carbohydrates: Roughly 18g
• Fat: About 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 5g

To reduce the calorie count, consider baking instead of frying, using light mayo, or serving with a salad or lettuce wraps instead of rice.

Seasonal and Occasion Variations

Summer BBQs: Grill the chicken instead of frying it and serve it skewered with bang bang sauce on the side. Add a side of grilled corn or chilled pasta salad.

Game Day Appetizer: Serve bite-sized bang bang chicken on a platter with celery sticks and a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing.

Holiday Party Platter: Dress it up with fresh herbs, microgreens, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for presentation. Serve it alongside festive cocktails or mocktails.

Spring Brunch: Pair with fresh fruit, mini waffles, and a spicy honey drizzle for a sweet-savory twist.

Meal Prep Season: Double the recipe on Sunday and use the leftovers in wraps, salads, or bowls for weekday lunches. The sauce also works as a sandwich spread or dip.

My Recipe Tips

• Don’t Skip the Sauce: It’s the heart of the dish. Make it fresh and adjust it to your liking. Too spicy? Add more mayo or a bit of honey. Too mild? Add a splash of vinegar or extra sriracha.
• Cut Even Chicken Pieces: This ensures everything cooks evenly and stays juicy. A little prep time here goes a long way.
• Taste Test Before Tossing: Try the sauce on a single piece of chicken first to make sure the flavor and heat are dialed in how you like it.
• Use a Thermometer: If you’re frying, keep oil around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps the coating crisp up without absorbing too much oil.
• Let Chicken Rest: Give it a minute to cool before adding the sauce. This keeps it from getting soggy too fast and helps the coating hold up.

Conclusion

If you’re after a bold, crispy, spicy-sweet dish that’s just as good as takeout (if not better), this bang-bang chicken recipe delivers. It’s fast, flexible, and consistently delicious. Plus, it’s easy to customize, from spice levels to cooking methods.

You now have all the info you need—detailed steps, pro tips, serving ideas, and ways to remix it for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a room full of hungry guests, this is a recipe that never fails to impress.

Ready to take it a step further? Try one of the variations, use the sauce on other proteins, or explore similar recipes. Bang bang chicken is just the beginning.