Prepare to ignite your taste buds with the explosive flavors of Bang Bang Chicken! It tantalizes the senses with its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and spicy kick. Whether you're seeking a delightful appetizer, a crowd-pleasing party dish, or a satisfying main course, Bang Bang Chicken will take your love for international cuisine to another level.

Overhead image of Bang Bang Chicken on a tan plate

Why This Will Be Your Favorite Weeknight Meal

Fast.
Easy.
Delicious.

With its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and spicy kick, this dish is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Get ready to experience an explosion of taste that will leave everyone craving more.

Why Is It Called Bang Bang Chicken?

The dish "Bang Bang Chicken" gets its name from the distinctive sound made during its preparation. The name "bang bang" refers to the method of tenderizing the chicken by lightly pounding it with a wooden stick or a kitchen utensil, causing a "bang" sound.

Where Does Bang Bang Sauce Come From?

Bang Bang Sauce is a popular condiment commonly used in Asian-inspired dishes, particularly in Chinese cuisine. While the exact origin of Bang Bang Sauce is unclear, it is believed to have originated in the Sichuan province of China, known for its bold and spicy flavors.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Chicken

Skinless Chicken Breasts
Soy Sauce
Sesame Oil
Cornstarch
Garlic
Ginger
Salt and Pepper

The Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise
Sweet Chili Sauce
Sriracha Sauce
Honey
Rice Vinegar
Sesame Oil
Soy Sauce

For Garnish

Green Onions
Sesame Seeds

How To Make Bang Bang Chicken

Making this delicious chicken dish in your air fryer is so incredibly easy! Follow the simple instructions below for a recipe that will turn out perfect every time!

Prepare the Chicken. Use a cutting board to chop the chicken breasts into small 1" pieces.
Marinate the Chicken. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Coat and Cook the Chicken. In another bowl, combine salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Toss the chicken in the breading mixture. Lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray and air fry at 400F for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F.
Prepare the Sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and soy sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust the spice level or sweetness according to your preference.
Toss the Chicken. Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken and toss until each piece is thoroughly coated. Ensure that the chicken is evenly dressed.
Serve and Garnish. Transfer the Bang Bang Chicken to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions, which add a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Enjoy the Flavors. Now comes the exciting part! Dive into the vibrant explosion of flavors in each bite.

Close up of bang bang chicken on a plate with chopsticks

Tips And Tricks

Adjust the Spice Level. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili sauce. For those who enjoy more heat, add an extra teaspoon or adjust to your taste.
Creamy Consistency. Adjust the sauce's consistency by adding more mayo for a thicker texture or a splash of water to thin it out.
Make It Your Own. Feel free to personalize your Bang Bang Chicken by adding extra ingredients such as shredded cabbage, cucumber slices, or fresh cilantro for added freshness and crunch.

Variations

While the traditional Bang Bang Chicken recipe is already packed with flavor, there are several variations and adaptations you can explore to put your own spin on this beloved dish. Here are some exciting variations:

Spice it Up- Adjust the heat level to your liking by increasing or decreasing the amount of Sriracha sauce in the sauce recipe.
Nutty Twist- For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some crushed peanuts or toasted cashews on top of the finished dish.
Veggie Delight- Add a refreshing crunch by incorporating thinly sliced cucumbers or shredded cabbage into the Bang Bang Chicken. This adds a vibrant freshness to complement the richness of the chicken and sauce.

What To Serve With It

Bang Bang Chicken is a flavorful and versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options to consider when deciding what to serve alongside it:

Rice- Serve steamed white rice or jasmine rice as a classic and simple side dish. The fluffy rice helps balance the spiciness of the chicken and complements the creamy sauce.
Noodles- Opt for Asian-style noodles like rice noodles, lo mein noodles, or soba noodles. Toss them with a light sesame oil dressing or serve them plain to soak up the flavorful sauce from the Bang Bang Chicken.
Stir-Fried Vegetables- Prepare a colorful medley of stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, broccoli, and mushrooms. Cook them until crisp-tender with a touch of soy sauce and sesame oil for a healthy and vibrant accompaniment.
Asian Slaw- Whip up a refreshing Asian slaw by combining shredded cabbage, carrots, thinly sliced bell peppers, and green onions. Toss them with a tangy dressing made from rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and a hint of sesame oil.

How Long Does It Last?

Allow the cooked Bang Bang Chicken to cool down to room temperature before storing it. Transfer the Bang Bang Chicken to an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Bang Bang Chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days when properly stored.

While Bang Bang Chicken can be stored for a few days, the texture of the chicken may become less crispy over time. The sauce may also thicken in the refrigerator. Therefore, it's best to consume it within the recommended storage period for the best taste and quality.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, you can freeze Bang Bang Chicken for longer storage. Freezing can help extend the shelf life of the dish beyond a few days.

Allow the cooked Bang Bang Chicken to cool completely at room temperature before freezing. Divide the chicken into individual or meal-sized portions. This will make it easier to defrost and reheat only what you need later on.

Place the portioned chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to remove any excess air from the bags to minimize the risk of freezer burn. Place the containers or bags in the freezer and store them for up to 2 to 3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy the frozen Bang Bang Chicken, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat the chicken in a microwave or skillet until heated through.

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