Bang Bang Chicken is the kind of dish that instantly steals the spotlight at the dinner table. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a creamy, sweet-and-spicy sauce, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Every bite balances crunch, heat, and sweetness, making it a top choice for anyone searching for easy dinner ideas that feel restaurant-quality but are made right at home.

This easy dinner recipe is perfect for busy families, casual gatherings, or quick weeknight recipes when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with budget-friendly groceries and simple pantry staples, Bang Bang Chicken checks all the boxes for family comfort food, affordable meals, and quick appetizer ideas that impress without stress.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

• Quick and easy dinner recipe ready in under 40 minutes
• Budget-friendly meal made with simple, affordable ingredients
• Family-approved comfort food with crispy texture and bold flavor
• Perfect for parties, game nights, or easy appetizer ideas
• Beginner-friendly cooking with straightforward steps
• Great for meal prep recipes and leftover-friendly meals

Ingredient Breakdown: What Makes Bang Bang Chicken So Addictive

Ingredients for the Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise: Creates a rich, creamy base that balances the heat and sweetness. Using full-fat mayo delivers the best texture and flavor for cheesy comfort food lovers.

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a glossy sweetness with mild heat, giving the sauce its signature Bang Bang flavor.

Sriracha Sauce: Brings a gentle spicy kick that wakes up the dish without overpowering it. Adjust to taste for spicy food lovers.

Honey: Rounds out the heat with natural sweetness, creating the perfect sweet-and-spicy balance.

Ingredients for the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins: Tender, quick-cooking, and perfect for frying. A great protein option for easy dinner for beginners.

Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick for extra crunch.

All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the batter, giving structure and crispiness.

Cornstarch: Key to achieving that light, crispy restaurant-style coating.

Egg: Helps bind the batter to the chicken for even coverage.

Garlic Powder: Adds savory depth without overpowering the sauce.

Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances every bite.

Cayenne Pepper (Optional): Perfect for those who enjoy extra heat.

Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates an ultra-crispy exterior and is one of the best choices for crunchy fried chicken.

Canola Oil: Ideal for frying due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point.

Chopped Parsley: Adds a fresh, colorful finish that balances the richness.

Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Mix until smooth and lump-free.

Add the chicken tenderloins, making sure each piece is fully coated. Let the chicken marinate for 10 minutes to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.

Coat the Chicken for Extra Crunch

Place panko breadcrumbs on a wide plate. Remove each chicken tender from the marinade, letting excess drip off, then press into the breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Set the coated chicken aside on a clean plate while heating the oil.

Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat canola oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat to 365°F. Fry chicken tenders in batches, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe cooking.

Drain, Toss, and Finish

Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. While still warm, toss the chicken tenders in the prepared Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Every Time

• Always preheat your oil to the correct temperature to avoid soggy chicken
• Use cornstarch with flour for a lighter, crispier coating
• Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature
• Toss chicken in sauce just before serving to keep it crispy
• Use fresh oil for the cleanest flavor

Ingredient Swaps and Recipe Variations

• Air Fryer Cooking: Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway
• Gluten-Free Recipe: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko
• Low-Carb Dinner Idea: Skip breadcrumbs and use almond flour coating
• Spicy Version: Increase Sriracha or add chili flakes
• Healthier Option: Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping once

Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken

Serve Bang Bang Chicken as a main dish with steamed rice, fried rice, or mashed potatoes. It also pairs perfectly with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw for balanced, healthy meal pairings.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Freeze cooked, un-sauced chicken for up to 2 months. Add sauce after reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until crispy. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

Cultural Notes: The Inspiration Behind Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken draws inspiration from Asian-American fusion cuisine, blending crispy fried chicken with sweet chili heat. While not traditionally Chinese, it reflects the bold flavors found in modern American comfort food and popular restaurant appetizers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Chicken

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, fry the chicken ahead and store it without sauce. Toss with sauce just before serving.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I make this recipe healthier?

Yes, bake or air fry the chicken and use light mayonnaise.

Is Bang Bang Chicken very spicy?

It’s mildly spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat level.

What substitutions work for allergies?

Use dairy-free milk instead of buttermilk and gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.