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Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with buttermilk, ensuring all the chicken is well coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour. This helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off, and dredge them in the flour mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken for extra crispiness.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat oil in a deep skillet or frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer the fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar (or lime juice). Taste and adjust the sweetness or heat level to your preference.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
- Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the fried chicken, tossing to coat evenly. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side as a dip.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro for added flair.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer: Serve as finger food for parties or gatherings, with extra sauce for dipping.
- Main Dish: Pair the Bang Bang Chicken with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles for a complete meal.
- Light Option: Serve over a bed of lettuce or coleslaw for a crunchy, flavorful salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The combination of crispy chicken and creamy, spicy sauce is irresistible.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the sriracha to make it as mild or as spicy as you like.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from game day snacks to a family dinner.
- Restaurant-Quality: This homemade version rivals the best Bang Bang Chicken you’d find at a restaurant, without the hefty price tag.
Tips for Success
- Extra Crunchy Chicken: For an ultra-crispy coating, double-dip the chicken by repeating the buttermilk and flour steps.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative.
- Make Ahead: Prep the sauce and marinate the chicken in advance for faster assembly at mealtime.
The Bottom Line
Bang Bang Chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. The contrast of crispy chicken with the creamy, zesty sauce makes it an unforgettable recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Perfect for any occasion, this dish delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy, homemade version of the iconic Bang Bang Chicken!
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