Introduction: Bang Bang Chicken That Started It All
Bang Bang Chicken is one of those dishes that surprises you with every bite—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and packed with flavor. For Chef Adriana, it wasn’t just another recipe—it was the spark that brought her weekend menu to life. One night, experimenting with fried chicken and a spicy-sweet sauce, she served it to her guests. The response was overwhelming.
Within weeks, what began as a kitchen test had turned into the most requested item on her menu. Her crispy chicken bites, coated in a creamy sauce with just the right kick, were a hit with everyone. It didn’t take long before regulars came in asking for “that spicy chicken again.”
This guide will show you exactly how to recreate the experience at home. From mixing the simple ingredients to getting that signature crunch just right, you’ll learn every step of the process. And yes—there’s room to customize the heat or add your own twist.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s bold, satisfying, and easy to make, this is it.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Bang Bang Chicken
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 1x
Description
Crispy, spicy, and creamy, this Bang Bang Chicken recipe is a bold fusion of flavor. Made with tender fried chicken bites tossed in a homemade sweet chili and Sriracha sauce, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish you can make in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 5 tsp Sriracha hot sauce (divided)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 3/4 tsp kosher salt (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 3/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 cup neutral oil (vegetable or canola) for frying
- Thinly sliced scallions (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, mix 1/2 cup mayo, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, and 4 tsp Sriracha. Reserve half for dipping.
- Prepare Coating: In one bowl, whisk eggs, 1 tsp Sriracha, and flour. In another, combine panko, 1 tsp salt, and garlic powder.
- Bread the Chicken: Season chicken with remaining salt. Dip pieces in egg mixture, then in panko mixture.
- Fry: Heat oil to 350°F. Fry 8–10 pieces at a time for 3–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Drain on a rack or paper towels.
- Toss & Serve: Toss hot chicken in reserved sauce. Garnish with scallions. Serve with extra sauce on the side.
Notes
Make ahead: The sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days. If the chicken is tossed with the sauce, the breading will soften upon storage.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Appetizer
- Method: Frying or Baking (optional)
- Cuisine: Asian-American Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–6
- Calories: ~460 kcal
- Sugar: ~6 g
- Sodium: ~900 mg
- Fat: ~27 g
- Saturated Fat: ~4.5 g
- Carbohydrates: ~24 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
- Protein: ~28 g
- Cholesterol: ~115 mg
The Origins and Cultural Background of Bang Bang Chicken
Bang Bang Chicken has a catchy name, but it also comes with a fascinating history. Originally from Sichuan, China, this dish was called “Bang Bang Ji,” referencing the wooden stick used to tenderize the meat. The rhythmic “bang bang” sound of pounding chicken gave the dish its unique name.
Traditionally, it was served cold with shredded chicken and a bold sesame-based sauce. Spicy, nutty, and light, it reflected the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine. Over time, though, the dish evolved—especially after being introduced to Western kitchens.
The Western version of Bang Bang Chicken has taken on a whole new identity. It’s now hot, crispy, and coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that’s completely different from its original roots. Yet, it still delivers the flavor impact the name promises.
Modern Bang Bang Chicken: A Crunchy, Creamy Favorite
The modern interpretation of Bang Bang Chicken involves tender chicken pieces coated in panko breadcrumbs and fried until crisp. What ties it all together is the sauce—a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. It’s this sweet and spicy combo that makes the dish unforgettable.
Whether you’re serving it as a snack, an appetizer, or a main course, the flavor balance of crunchy chicken and creamy heat hits the spot. It’s become a favorite in fusion cuisine for good reason: familiar ingredients, exciting taste.
Check out our blog section for more comfort food recipes with a twist like Bang Bang Chicken.
What Does Bang Bang Chicken Taste Like?
A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
If you’ve ever wondered why Bang Bang Chicken is so addictive, it’s all about the balance of flavors. The first thing that hits your taste buds is the crispy crunch of perfectly fried chicken. Bite through that golden layer and you’re met with juicy, tender meat inside—comforting and satisfying.
Then comes the sauce. Bang Bang Chicken is known for its signature blend of creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors. The mayo-based sauce is rich, while the sweet chili adds a sugary kick, and Sriracha brings the heat. Together, they create a smooth yet spicy coating that clings to every piece, making each bite full of flavor.
It’s not overpowering, though. The sauce offers just the right level of spice to keep things interesting without being too intense. That’s why this dish is such a crowd-pleaser—it appeals to both spice lovers and those who prefer mild heat.
Texture Meets Taste: The Real Winning Combo
One reason Bang Bang Chicken stands out is its texture. The combination of crunchy breading with creamy sauce gives a mouthfeel that’s both exciting and comforting. Each bite delivers contrast—crisp and smooth, hot and cool, spicy and sweet.
That contrast makes it ideal for pairing with sides like rice, salad, or even noodles. The richness of the sauce and the crunch of the chicken provide a perfect base for all kinds of variations.
It’s this duality—crunchy yet creamy, spicy yet smooth—that keeps people coming back for more. No matter how you serve it, Bang Bang Chicken never disappoints.
Looking for a fun drink to balance the spice? Don’t miss our refreshing Summer Strawberry Apple Punch—a perfect match for this dish.
What Is Bang Bang Sauce Made Of?
Breaking Down the Key Ingredients
The sauce is what transforms ordinary fried chicken into Bang Bang Chicken—and the good news is, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up the famous sauce in minutes. The three essential ingredients? Mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha.
Mayonnaise creates the creamy base. It’s thick, smooth, and rich, helping the sauce cling to the crispy surface of the chicken. Sweet chili sauce adds a sticky sweetness and a mild tang, balancing the heat. And then there’s Sriracha—the secret to the spice. It brings just enough kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
Together, these three ingredients deliver that creamy-spicy flavor explosion Bang Bang Chicken is known for. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less Sriracha, or even mix in a squeeze of lime juice to brighten it up.
Why the Sauce Makes All the Difference
What makes Bang Bang Chicken unforgettable isn’t just the crunch—it’s the sauce. This sweet-heat blend takes the crispy texture and wraps it in bold, creamy flavor. That contrast between spicy and sweet, smooth and crunchy, is what keeps people hooked.
If you’re making this dish at home, you can customize the sauce in all kinds of ways. Want more sweetness? Add honey. Like a smoky twist? Mix in a dash of chipotle. The base is flexible, which makes Bang Bang Chicken easy to adapt to different tastes.
The sauce also pairs beautifully with other proteins. Try it on shrimp, tofu, or even roasted veggies for a spicy upgrade.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken at Home (Easy Recipe)
Ingredients You’ll Need
This crispy, spicy recipe is easier to make than it looks. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s full of bold flavor and perfect for sharing. The following amounts will serve 4 to 6 people:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Sweet chili sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Sriracha hot sauce | 5 teaspoons (divided) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 2 1/2 cups |
| Kosher salt | 1 3/4 teaspoons (divided) |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Chicken breast (boneless, skinless) | 1 3/4 pounds (cut into 1-inch pieces) |
| Neutral oil (for frying) | 1 cup |
| Scallions (optional, for garnish) | Thinly sliced |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and 4 teaspoons of the Sriracha. Set aside half the mixture for dipping.
Set Up Breading Stations
In one bowl, whisk the eggs with the remaining teaspoon of Sriracha and the flour. In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of salt, and garlic powder.
Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with the remaining salt. Dip them in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb blend. Lay them out on a baking sheet.
Fry Until Golden
Heat the oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Fry in batches, turning halfway through, until each piece is golden brown and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Toss and Serve
Return the cooked chicken to the bowl with the sauce and toss until coated. Garnish with scallions if desired, and serve with extra sauce for dipping.
This spicy fried chicken with creamy chili sauce is always a crowd favorite—whether served as a snack, appetizer, or full meal.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Summer Strawberry Apple Punch to cool down the heat.
Pro Cooking Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken
How to Keep the Chicken Extra Crispy
One of the key features that makes Bang Bang Chicken so satisfying is its irresistible crunch. But if you don’t follow the right technique, the breading can turn soggy fast. Here’s how to avoid that:
Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones—they’re lighter and create a crispier texture.
Always preheat the oil to 350°F. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the coating absorbs too much oil and becomes greasy.
Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken in batches so each piece has room to crisp evenly.
After frying, drain on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This keeps air circulating and the coating crisp.
Following these steps will help you achieve that restaurant-level crunch every time.
Secrets to Perfect Flavor Balance
- The sauce is what elevates Bang Bang Chicken, so you want to make sure it’s hitting all the right notes. Here are a few pro tips:
- Taste and adjust the sauce before using it. If it’s too spicy, add more mayo. Too sweet? Add a touch of lime juice or rice vinegar for balance.
- Toss the chicken in the sauce right before serving. If you mix it too early, the coating will soften.
- For extra heat lovers, a dash of cayenne or a few chili flakes can be added to the sauce or sprinkled on top.
- These small adjustments let you fine-tune the dish to match your personal heat tolerance and texture preference.
Serving Ideas & Side Dishes with Bang Bang Chicken
Popular Sides That Pair Perfectly
One of the best things about Bang Bang Chicken is how versatile it is. Whether you’re making a casual weeknight dinner or party appetizers, it works beautifully with a wide range of sides.
Here are a few fan-favorite options to consider:
Steamed Jasmine or Basmati rice – A neutral base that soaks up the creamy, spicy sauce.
Crispy slaw or cabbage salad – Adds crunch and freshness to balance out the richness of the dish.
Garlic noodles or ramen – For a heartier option, toss some noodles in soy sauce, sesame oil, and scallions.
Roasted vegetables – Broccoli, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and balance to the plate.
These combinations help turn Bang Bang Chicken into a full meal that’s both satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Serving Ideas
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of fun ways to serve this crispy chicken dish. Here are some ideas to try:
Taco-style wraps – Fill tortillas with the chicken, slaw, and a drizzle of extra sauce.
Bowls – Build rice or quinoa bowls with veggies and a few pieces of Bang Bang Chicken on top.
Sliders – Perfect for parties. Add the chicken and sauce between soft buns with pickles or coleslaw.
Skewers or toothpick bites – Serve it as finger food for game day or family gatherings.
These variations make the dish more flexible depending on the occasion, and they’re just as delicious in each format.
Looking for more meal pairing ideas? Explore our recipe section for creative combos.
Health Info & Nutrition Facts
Calories and Macros in Bang Bang Chicken
When it comes to comfort food, Bang Bang Chicken falls somewhere in the middle—rich and satisfying, but not exactly low-calorie. On average, a single serving (about 1 cup or 6 to 8 pieces) contains 400–500 calories, depending on how it’s prepared and how much sauce is added.
Here’s a general nutrition breakdown per serving:
- Nutrient Estimate (fried)
- Calories 450
- Protein 28g
- Carbohydrates 24g
- Fat 26g
- Sodium 900mg
The sauce contributes a good amount of fat and sugar, mostly from the mayo and sweet chili. The frying adds more fat, especially if the chicken absorbs excess oil.
How to Make It Lighter
Want to enjoy Bang Bang Chicken with fewer calories? Here are a few ways to lighten it up without losing the flavor:
- Air fry instead of deep frying – You’ll cut the fat significantly while keeping it crispy.
- Use Greek yogurt in place of some mayo – It still gives a creamy texture with fewer calories.
- Skip the breading and grill the chicken – Toss grilled chicken in the sauce for a low-carb version.
- Serve with veggies instead of rice or bread – This helps reduce calories while keeping your plate full.
- With a few tweaks, you can enjoy the same sweet-spicy flavor of Bang Bang Chicken with a healthier nutritional profile.
Don’t miss our guide on healthy homemade meals to pair with your lighter dishes.
Variations & Creative Twists
Fun Alternatives to Classic Bang Bang Chicken
What makes Bang Bang Chicken even more appealing is how easy it is to customize. You don’t have to stick to the original recipe—there are plenty of creative ways to change it up without losing the flavor that makes it special.
Here are a few popular variations:
Bang Bang Shrimp – Swap out the chicken for shrimp and follow the same breading and sauce method. This version is especially popular in seafood restaurants and tastes amazing with a squeeze of lime.
Baked Bang Bang Chicken – Skip the deep fryer and bake the chicken at 425°F until golden. It’s a healthier option that still delivers crispiness when done right.
Tofu or Cauliflower – For a vegetarian twist, use firm tofu or cauliflower florets. Bread and roast or air fry them before tossing in the signature sauce.
Kid-Friendly Version – Reduce or remove the Sriracha to make a milder version suitable for younger eaters. Keep the sweet chili for just a touch of flavor.
These ideas allow you to serve Bang Bang Chicken at more meals and accommodate different diets.
Customizing for Dietary Needs
If you or your guests have specific dietary requirements, there are easy ways to adjust the recipe:
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko or almond flour for the coating.
Low-carb: Skip the breadcrumbs and grill the chicken or use crushed pork rinds.
Dairy-free: The base sauce uses mayo, which is dairy-free—but double-check your brand.
With a few swaps, you can enjoy the same bold taste in a way that works for your lifestyle.
Explore more flavor-packed variations in our kitchen blog for creative mealtime ideas.
Conclusion: Bring the Heat with Homemade Bang Bang Chicken
Now that you’ve seen how easy it is to make Bang Bang Chicken at home, there’s no reason to wait for takeout. From the crispy fried coating to the creamy, spicy sauce that made Chef Adriana’s version a local legend, this dish is all about bold flavors and satisfying texture.
Whether you stick with the classic version, try a baked or air-fried twist, or go completely plant-based, Bang Bang Chicken adapts to your cravings. Pair it with rice, wrap it in tortillas, or serve it as a party appetizer—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.
So fire up the skillet, whip up that signature sauce, and make something unforgettable. Your dinner table deserves the crunch, the spice, and the joy that Bang Bang Chicken brings.
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FAQs About Bang Bang Chicken
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a dish made with bite-sized pieces of crispy fried chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili, and Sriracha. Though the name comes from a traditional Chinese dish, the modern version is an American-style comfort food favorite with bold fusion flavors.
What is Bang Bang Sauce Made Of?
The sauce typically includes mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and has just enough heat to make it exciting. Some variations add lime juice or garlic for an extra twist.
What Flavor Is Bang Bang?
The flavor of Bang Bang Chicken is a balance of sweet, spicy, creamy, and slightly tangy. The chicken delivers the crunch, while the sauce adds layers of heat and sweetness that make it completely addictive.
Why Is It Called Bang Bang?
The name comes from a traditional Chinese method of tenderizing chicken using a wooden stick that makes a “bang bang” sound. While today’s fried version is different from the original shredded recipe, the name stuck—and the flavor certainly still makes an impact.
How Do You Make Bang Bang Chicken?
Start by coating small pieces of chicken in egg and seasoned breadcrumbs. Then fry them until golden and toss with the sauce. For full details, check out the recipe instructions above for exact steps and pro tips.
What’s in Bang Bang Chicken?
Aside from the chicken itself, the key ingredients are mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and neutral oil for frying. Garnishes like scallions can be added for freshness.
Bang Bang Chicken: Calories?
On average, one serving of Bang Bang Chicken contains 400–500 calories, depending on frying method and how much sauce is used. Air frying and sauce adjustments can reduce the calorie count significantly.