Easy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

There's something incredibly satisfying about the crispy, juicy bite of Bang Bang Chicken, especially when it's drenched in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that tingles your taste buds. The aroma of sizzling chicken meeting tangy chili mayo is enough to bring everyone to the kitchen before dinner is even served.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe while trying to recreate a restaurant favorite on a budget—and honestly, it's better than takeout. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep, this quick, crowd-pleasing dish has become a staple in our weeknight rotation.

Even if you're new to cooking or short on time, you'll find this Easy Bang Bang Chicken foolproof and fun to make. Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Easy Bang Bang Chicken

Say hello to your new go-to dish for any night of the week. This Easy Bang Bang Chicken is everything you want in a recipe: fast, flavorful, and totally customizable.

First, it’s incredibly quick. From start to finish, you can have this meal on the table in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those weeknights when you’re juggling dinner with homework help, laundry, and a little self-care.

Second, it’s super easy. You don’t need any fancy equipment or culinary skills. Just a bowl, a pan, and a few everyday ingredients. The hardest part might be not licking the sauce bowl clean before the chicken’s ready.

Third, it’s budget-friendly. Chicken breast, a simple breading, and a homemade sauce mean you're not spending more than necessary. It’s proof that you don’t have to break the bank to eat well.

And finally, this recipe is crazy versatile. Serve it over rice, tuck it into lettuce wraps, or even pile it onto a sandwich bun. However you serve it, expect clean plates and happy faces.

Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Now, let’s look at what makes this dish so crave-worthy.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this Easy Bang Bang Chicken lies in its straightforward, flavor-packed ingredients. Each one contributes to the bold taste and crispy texture that make this dish unforgettable.

Chicken breast is the star of the show. I like to use boneless, skinless pieces cut into bite-sized chunks. They cook quickly and evenly, staying tender inside while crisping up beautifully on the outside.

Cornstarch and flour form the coating that gives the chicken its satisfying crunch. The combination creates a light, crispy exterior that’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce without becoming soggy.

The Bang Bang Sauce is where the magic happens. A simple mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a touch of Sriracha creates a creamy, spicy-sweet drizzle that takes the chicken to another level. If you like more heat, feel free to dial up the Sriracha.

Buttermilk (or milk + vinegar) helps tenderize the chicken and allows the coating to stick better. It’s an optional step, but one I never skip if I have time—it makes a big difference in flavor and texture.

To make things easy, all you need equipment-wise is a good nonstick or cast-iron skillet, a mixing bowl, and a few utensils. No deep fryer required!

How To Make This Easy Bang Bang Chicken

Making this Easy Bang Bang Chicken is a breeze, and you’ll be amazed at how such simple steps yield such delicious results.

Start by prepping your chicken. Cut it into even chunks, then soak it in buttermilk (or your milk + vinegar mixture) for about 15–20 minutes. This helps tenderize the meat and ensures a flavorful bite every time.

While the chicken soaks, mix your Bang Bang Sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Stir until smooth and set aside. Give it a little taste—adjust the spice level if needed!

Next, prepare your coating. In another bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off, and toss the pieces in the flour mixture until well coated.

Heat a thin layer of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot (you’ll see a shimmer), add the coated chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden and crispy on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Once all the chicken is cooked, drizzle the Bang Bang Sauce over the warm pieces or toss them gently in a bowl until coated. Serve immediately while the chicken is still crispy and the sauce is silky smooth.

From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but tasty enough to serve to guests.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare in our house), you can store Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain crispiness.

To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely, then spread it on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back the crisp texture.

For reheating, avoid the microwave if you can—it tends to make the coating soggy. Instead, pop the chicken in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes or use an air fryer for 5–7 minutes.

The sauce can be refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to a week. Give it a quick stir before using again.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Easy Bang Bang Chicken is how adaptable it is. You can tweak the ingredients to fit your preferences or what’s already in your pantry.

For a healthier version, skip the frying and bake the chicken at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll still get great flavor with less oil.

Need a gluten-free option? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure your sweet chili sauce is certified gluten-free.

Want it spicier? Add extra Sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can even sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for a fiery finish.

For a vegetarian twist, swap the chicken for cauliflower florets. Coat and cook them the same way—you’ll be surprised how satisfying and crispy they turn out!

Finally, try serving the chicken in different formats: over noodles, in tacos, or stuffed into sliders for a fun appetizer.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to your cravings and creativity. However you spin it, Easy Bang Bang Chicken is always a hit!

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