Looking to spice things up in the kitchen with a crispy, juicy, flavor-packed dish that hits all the right notes? Say hello to Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. This crowd-pleasing favorite combines the bold crunch of double-fried chicken with a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that’s downright addictive.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything from what makes this dish so special to how you can whip it up at home, even with healthier or low-carb twists. We’ll also explore variations, serving ideas, cooking tips, nutritional info, and some commonly asked questions. Whether you’re deep-frying for the first time or a seasoned kitchen pro, this is your go-to playbook for mastering crispy chicken recipes with an Asian-inspired kick.
Table of Contents
What Is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Origin and Evolution of Bang Bang Chicken
Ever wondered where Bang Bang Chicken came from? Despite sounding like something born in a modern food truck, this dish actually traces its roots to Sichuan-style shredded chicken, often served cold with a punchy sauce. However, the version we know today—loaded with sweet chili sauce and creamy mayo—is a Western twist on the original.
American-style Bang Bang Chicken takes the essence of heat and spice, then tosses in bold textures and mouthwatering flavor contrasts. Instead of poached or shredded meat, you get crispy, deep-fried chicken bites that are golden on the outside and tender on the inside. Add a drizzle of tangy, spicy bang bang sauce, and boom—you’ve got a plateful of magic.
Over the years, restaurants like Bonefish Grill made Bang Bang Shrimp famous, which only helped its chicken cousin gain popularity. Today, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a viral sensation across food blogs, TikTok, and home kitchens alike.
What Makes It “Crispy” and Why It Matters
Let’s face it—crispy food just hits different. That audible crunch? It’s not just satisfying; it’s downright addictive. In the case of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, the crisp comes from a clever combo of potato starch, flour, and double-frying. Yes, that’s right. Frying it twice is the secret weapon.
First, the chicken is fried at a lower temp to cook it through. Then, it takes a second dip in hotter oil to lock in that crunch and form the iconic golden crust. This technique ensures the chicken stays crispy, even after being coated in that sticky-sweet, spicy mayo glaze.
Moreover, using potato starch (a staple in many Asian-style fried chicken dishes) instead of cornstarch gives the coating a silkier texture and a more even crisp. It’s a game-changer for anyone chasing that perfect bite.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
To make a plate of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken that truly lives up to the hype, you need more than just good technique—you need the right ingredients. Fortunately, most of them are pantry staples, and a few can be easily swapped if needed. Let’s break them down.
Essential Proteins and Cuts: Choosing the Right Chicken
Chicken thighs or chicken breasts—what’s best? While both work, many prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juicy, flavorful texture. However, if you like leaner meat or already have chicken breasts on hand, they’ll do just fine.
It’s important to cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces. This not only ensures quick, uniform cooking but also makes each piece the perfect vessel for that crispy coating.
Crisping Agents and Flavor Boosters
The crisp factor in Crispy Bang Bang Chicken comes from a clever mix of potato starch and flour. Potato starch creates a light, flaky crunch, while flour adds body to the batter. When fried twice, this combo delivers unbeatable texture.
The sauce, however, is what sets this dish apart. It’s a bold mix of sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise, honey, and a touch of gochujang (Korean red chili paste). This creamy, sweet-and-spicy blend clings to the crispy chicken, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Here’s a simple table of the core ingredients and their amounts:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken thighs | 1 pound (450g) |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup |
| Potato starch (or cornstarch) | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Shichimi togarashi (or red pepper) | 1/2 tsp |
| Oil for frying | 2 cups (for deep fry) |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Sweet chili sauce | 1/3 cup |
| Gochujang (optional) | 1 tbsp |
| Honey | 1 tbsp |
Now that we’ve got the ingredients ready, let’s get cooking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Crispy Bang Bang Chicken
It’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring Crispy Bang Bang Chicken to life. Don’t worry—this isn’t a complicated process. In fact, it’s downright fun. And once you taste the results, you’ll agree it’s worth every sizzling second.
Preparation & Marination Process
First things first—prep your chicken. Cut it into small chunks, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. In a bowl, whisk the egg and milk together until smooth. Toss in the chicken pieces and let them soak for at least 15 minutes. This step not only tenderizes the meat but also helps the coating stick better later on.
Meanwhile, mix your dry coating: combine flour, potato starch, salt, pepper, and shichimi (or any chili powder you prefer) in a separate bowl or large zip-top bag.
After marinating, drain the chicken from the milk-egg mixture and transfer it to the dry mix. Shake or toss to coat each piece evenly. Every bit of chicken should be nicely covered—no bald spots!
First Frying: Achieving the Initial Crunch
Heat oil in a deep pan to about 325°F (165°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the chicken bites. Once hot, fry the chicken in small batches for about 90 seconds. Don’t crowd the pan, or you’ll lower the oil temperature.
After frying, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate. Let them rest separately to prevent sogginess.
Double Frying: The Secret to Maximum Crispiness
Now, crank the oil up to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s sizzling again, add the chicken back for a second fry—this time, just for another 90 seconds. This trick crisps up the coating and gives it that glorious, golden finish. It’s how Korean fried chicken gets its crunch, and it works like a charm here too.
Making the Signature Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken cools slightly, whip up the sauce. In a bowl, stir together mayo, sweet chili sauce, gochujang, and honey. Taste and tweak the ratio to your liking. Want more heat? Add a bit more chili paste. Prefer it sweeter? Drizzle in extra honey.
Final Toss & Serve: Getting That Glossy Coating
Finally, toss the freshly fried chicken into the sauce. Do this just before serving to keep the coating crisp. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling fancy.
Boom—you’ve got Crispy Bang Bang Chicken that crackles with every bite and bursts with sweet, spicy flavor.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Variations You’ll Love
Not every version of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken needs to be deep-fried in bubbling oil. In fact, with a little creativity, you can enjoy this spicy-sweet delight in different ways—some even lighter on the calories.
Baked or Air-Fried Bang Bang Chicken
If you’re looking to cut back on oil without sacrificing crunch, air fryer bang bang chicken is your new best friend. Just coat the marinated chicken in flour and potato starch as usual, spritz lightly with oil, and air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes. Flip halfway for even crisping.
Likewise, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes. Though it won’t be exactly the same as deep-fried, the sauce brings enough bold flavor to make up for it. Therefore, this method is perfect for weeknight dinners.
Spicy, Milder, and Keto Variations
Don’t like it too spicy? No problem. Just skip the gochujang or reduce the amount of sweet chili sauce. You can also add more honey for a sweeter glaze.
Going low-carb? Swap potato starch for almond flour and use Greek yogurt in place of mayo. You’ll still get that creamy heat—just keto-friendly style.
Want more ways to enjoy chicken in creative ways? Check out our breakdown of Chicken Fried Chicken vs Fried Chicken for another crispy twist on a comfort classic.
Serving Ideas and Side Dishes
Now that your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is sizzling hot and glazed to perfection, what should you serve it with? Well, you’ve got plenty of delicious options to round out your meal.
Bang Bang Chicken as an Appetizer or Main Course
If you’re hosting guests or planning a party, these chicken bites work great as finger food. Serve them with toothpicks and a little extra bang bang sauce on the side. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and scallions for that wow factor.
On the other hand, when served with rice or noodles, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken transforms into a hearty, flavor-packed main dish. In addition, it’s excellent in wraps, tacos, or even rice bowls—especially topped with crunchy slaw or pickled veggies.
Pairings: Slaws, Rice Bowls, or Lettuce Wraps
Pair your chicken with Asian-style slaw for a fresh, crisp contrast. The creamy spice of the chicken and the tangy crunch of cabbage? Oh yes, it’s a match made in food heaven.
Another stellar idea is to serve it in lettuce wraps. These are perfect for a lighter, low-carb option. For a more filling approach, try piling the chicken on jasmine rice with sliced avocado, cucumber ribbons, and a drizzle of extra sauce.
For more delicious recipes, explore our flavor-packed guide to Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo, another dish that balances richness and spice beautifully.
Tips, Tricks & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though Crispy Bang Bang Chicken isn’t difficult to make, there are a few important tricks that can turn your chicken from “good” to “absolutely irresistible.” At the same time, avoiding common kitchen missteps can help you achieve that golden, crunchy coating every time.
Preventing Sogginess: Keeping That Crisp
One of the biggest complaints when frying chicken is that it turns soggy too fast. So how do you keep crispy chicken from going soft? First, always fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady. If the oil cools too much, the chicken absorbs excess grease instead of crisping.
Additionally, once the chicken is fried, drain it on a wire rack or paper towels—but don’t pile the pieces together. Let each one breathe! Moreover, toss the chicken in sauce just before serving. Otherwise, that lovely crunch could disappear in minutes.
Saucing Without Overdoing It
There’s no denying that the bang bang sauce is the star of the show. However, drowning your chicken in too much of it can backfire. A light toss is all you need for that glossy coating that clings without soaking the crust.
Also, if your sauce is too runny, consider chilling it slightly before using. A thicker sauce hugs the chicken better, keeping it crispy on the outside and juicy inside.
Finally, always double-fry. It’s not just extra work—it’s the secret to Crispy Bang Bang Chicken that stays crunchy longer than takeout!
Nutritional Breakdown and Substitutes
Let’s be honest—Crispy Bang Bang Chicken isn’t exactly a salad. But that doesn’t mean you can’t tweak it for a lighter version, or at least understand what you’re eating. After all, knowledge is flavor too, right?
Estimated Calories and Macronutrients
Here’s a rough breakdown for one serving (about 6–7 pieces) of homemade Crispy Bang Bang Chicken:
- Calories: ~380–450
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~22g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
Keep in mind, values may vary depending on the oil used, portion size, and exact sauce quantity. For example, gochujang and mayo can hike up sodium and fat—but also add richness and depth.
Low-Calorie or Dairy-Free Options
Want to lighten it up a bit? Swap mayo with plain Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream. This reduces fat while keeping the creamy texture. Likewise, you can bake or air-fry instead of deep-frying, trimming both oil and calories.
For dairy-free folks, opt for vegan mayo or avocado-based spreads. You can also skip honey and use agave or maple syrup for a plant-based alternative.
In addition, using almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of starches creates a great low-carb or keto version of Crispy Bang Bang Chicken. With a few simple tweaks, it’s easier than ever to make this dish fit your dietary goals without losing that crave-worthy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Everyone’s talking about Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, and with that buzz come plenty of questions. So, let’s answer the most common ones people ask online before they grab their apron.
What is bang bang sauce made of?
Bang bang sauce is a creamy, spicy-sweet blend made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, a bit of honey, and gochujang or sriracha for heat. Some folks like to add a splash of lime juice for tang, too. It’s quick, bold, and super versatile.
Can I bake Crispy Bang Bang Chicken instead of frying?
Absolutely! Although traditional recipes call for deep-frying, baking is a solid alternative. Just place the coated chicken on a wire rack over a baking tray, spritz with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes. Flip halfway through for even crispiness.
What’s the difference between bang bang shrimp and chicken?
While both dishes use the same irresistible sauce, the protein is what sets them apart. Bang bang shrimp is typically battered and flash-fried seafood, whereas Crispy Bang Bang Chicken uses tender chicken bites. The textures are different, but the flavor vibe is the same—creamy, sweet, and spicy.
How do you keep fried chicken crispy for longer?
The trick? Double frying and resting it on a wire rack. Also, don’t cover hot fried chicken—it traps steam and ruins the crunch. Toss it in sauce only when you’re ready to serve.
Can I prep Crispy Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate and coat the chicken early. Fry it once, then let it cool. When ready, do the second fry, toss in sauce, and serve hot. It’s a great meal prep move.
Related Recipes and What to Cook Next
If you loved Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, there’s more where that came from. Here are some flavor-packed recipes to try next:
- Bang Bang Shrimp – Lightly fried shrimp tossed in the same creamy sauce. Perfect for seafood lovers.
- Spicy Korean Fried Chicken – Gochujang-glazed and crunchy to the core.
- Sweet Chili Chicken Tenders – A simpler, kid-friendly version that still delivers a kick.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Bites – Sticky, sweet, and finger-lickin’ good.
For more creative twists on chicken dishes, you might enjoy this hearty and creamy Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo.
Final Thoughts and Cooking Inspiration
There you have it—a full breakdown of how to make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken from scratch. From double-frying tricks to flavor-packed variations, you now have everything you need to wow your taste buds and maybe a few dinner guests too.
What makes this dish so special isn’t just the crunch or the bold sauce. It’s the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, creamy, and crispy that keeps people coming back for more. And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home, even on a busy weeknight.
So whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine or impress at your next potluck, give this recipe a try. Add your twist, play with the heat levels, or even go keto—there’s no wrong way to make it your own.
Ready to get cooking? Grab those ingredients and let the bang bang magic begin.