Easy Bang Bang Chicken Recipe to Try Today

If you’re craving a dish that’s creamy, spicy, and bursting with bold flavors, you need to try this easy Bang Bang Chicken recipe. Perfect as a quick dinner or a delightful lunch, this classic dish combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, Bang Bang Chicken offers a memorable meal that’s simple to make and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute plans.
• Flavor-packed: Creamy with just the right level of heat, it balances spice and sweetness effortlessly.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish, over rice, or tossed with noodles.
• Family-friendly: Generally loved by adults and kids alike, this dish hits all the right notes.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with ingredients you have on hand or to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Bang Bang Chicken are straightforward but essential—they each play a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of texture, creaminess, and spice that makes this dish stand out. Freshness and quality here really make a difference.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Use boneless and skinless for tender bites that soak up the sauce.
• Mayonnaise: Adds a rich, creamy base that smooths out the spice.
• Sriracha or chili sauce: Provides the signature heat and depth for the sauce.
• Honey or sugar: Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.
• Rice vinegar: Brings a subtle tang that brightens the flavor profile.
• Garlic powder: Boosts savory elements without overpowering.
• Green onions: Offer a fresh, mild crunch for garnish and layering of flavor.
• Sesame seeds: Optional, but add a nutty texture and visual appeal.

Variations for Bang Bang Chicken

One of the best parts about Bang Bang Chicken is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to play with the spice level or adapt it to meet dietary needs, these variations make the recipe your own.

• Spicy level adjustment: Skip or reduce the sriracha for milder taste or add more for a fiery kick.
• Protein swaps: Substitute cooked shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian option.
• Dairy-free version: Use avocado or coconut yogurt instead of mayonnaise for creamy texture without dairy.
• Crunch addition: Toss in chopped celery or water chestnuts for extra crispness.
• Herb twist: Mix in cilantro or basil for fresh herbal notes.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Cook the chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken with salt and pepper. Pan-fry over medium heat with a bit of oil until golden on the outside and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Allow it to rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces to keep it juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth and creamy. Adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha based on your preference.

Step 3: Combine chicken and sauce

Gently toss the sliced chicken in the Bang Bang sauce until each piece is well coated in that creamy, spicy goodness. Avoid overmixing to keep the chicken tender and intact.

Step 4: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top for color, texture, and that final burst of flavor. Serve immediately or chilled, depending on what you’re in the mood for.

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken

• Even cooking: Pound chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking and tenderness.
• Rest chicken: Let cooked chicken rest before slicing to retain juices and avoid dryness.
• Adjust sauce consistency: Add a splash of water or lime juice if the sauce is too thick.
• Fresh toppings: Always add green onions and sesame seeds last to keep their bright flavors intact.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance to save time and let flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh green onions provide a mild sharpness, while toasted sesame seeds add a crunchy nuttiness. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime or a sprinkle of cilantro can lift the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even crunchy slaws to balance the creamy heat. For something heartier, serve it over noodles or alongside roasted vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this dish in lettuce wraps for a refreshing hand-held meal or spread it over crispy rice cakes as an appetizer. It’s also fantastic drizzled on top of grain bowls or over crispy tofu for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken will remain tender, and the sauce develops even more flavor overnight.

Freezing

While freezing chicken dishes with creamy sauces can be tricky, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately, then toss it in freshly made sauce after thawing for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a small splash of water or lime juice to refresh the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken is a spicy, creamy dish featuring tender chicken coated in a flavorful sauce made with mayonnaise, chili sauce, and sweetener, often garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute tofu or cooked vegetables like cauliflower to create a vegetarian-friendly version while keeping the same delicious sauce.

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The spice level depends on how much sriracha or chili sauce you use; you can easily adjust it from mild to very spicy based on your taste.

Is Bang Bang Chicken served hot or cold?

Bang Bang Chicken is versatile and can be served warm right after cooking or chilled as a refreshing cold dish, especially during warmer months.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

It goes great with steamed rice, noodles, salads, or lettuce wraps, making it easy to pair with whatever you prefer or have on hand.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about how this Bang Bang Chicken recipe marries creamy, sweet, and spicy elements into one unforgettable meal. It’s simple enough for any cook to tackle yet impressive enough to share with loved ones. Give it a try today – your taste buds will thank you!

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