Introduction
Welcome to a culinary adventure that’s about to take your taste buds on a delightful ride! Today, we’re diving into the crispy and spicy world of Bang Bang Chicken—a dish that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor with each bite. Imagine succulent pieces of chicken, lovingly coated and fried to a golden brown, then paired with a creamy, spicy sauce that elevates the entire experience. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes. This aromatic mix will enhance every bite of chicken!
- In another bowl, place the beaten eggs, creating a rich bath for our chicken pieces.
- Pour the panko breadcrumbs into a separate shallow dish, waiting to give that perfect crunch.
- Dip each piece of chicken first into the flour mixture, coating it well. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing for an even layer before finishing with a generous coating of panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan to achieve that crispy texture.
- Fry the chicken until it’s beautifully golden brown and cooked through, which should take approximately 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the crispy pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey. Stir until smooth to create your delectable Bang Bang Sauce.
- Serve your crispy chicken drizzled with the Bang Bang Sauce or alongside it for dipping. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to adjust the spice level of the Bang Bang Sauce by varying the amount of Sriracha and red chili flakes according to your taste. For an extra splash of flavor, consider garnishing your dish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe showcases the art of frying, which gives the chicken its signature crispiness. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken; if it’s not, the chicken will absorb too much oil, becoming greasy instead of crispy. A thermometer can help you maintain the oil temperature at around 350°F for perfect frying.
FAQ
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best crisper results!
Conclusion
Your journey into the world of Bang Bang Chicken ends here, but the delicious memories are just beginning! Whether you share this dish with your loved ones or keep it all for yourself (no judgment here!), the combination of crunchy chicken and zesty sauce is sure to bring smiles around the table. Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!