Crispy Bang Bang Chicken: Irresistibly Crunchy Delight

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, your go-to food enthusiast from New Jersey. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, a dish that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many. This recipe is all about balancing that irresistible crunch with a creamy, spicy sauce that has everyone coming back for more.

Cooking and baking are activities I cherish, especially when my 6-year-old son joins in. It transforms our time in the kitchen into a delightful bonding experience. With this dish, you can easily involve your little ones too. So, roll up those sleeves and let’s dive into this culinary adventure!

Ingredients

To make this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional, for added heat)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Timing

Timing is key to achieving that perfect crunch! Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

In just over half an hour, you’ll have a delectable dish ready to impress your family or guests!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

In three separate bowls, place the flour mixed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in one. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs. Finally, place the panko breadcrumbs in the third bowl.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

First, dip each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, coating it completely. Then, transfer it to the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Lastly, roll the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring it’s fully covered.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha (if using). Stir until well combined. This sauce is the magic that brings everything together!

Step 6: Toss the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the crispy chicken with the bang bang sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly. You’ll love how the sauce enhances the flavors!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg

While it’s a treat, moderation is key to enjoying this dish as part of a balanced diet!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for healthier twists on this recipe, here are some ideas:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Try baking the chicken instead of frying. Simply place the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce for a lighter option.

These alternatives can help lighten the dish while still keeping that delicious flavor intact!

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken is a versatile dish. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve it over a bed of jasmine rice for a more filling meal.
• Pair it with a fresh salad to balance out the richness.
• For a fun appetizer, serve it with toothpicks alongside extra bang bang sauce for dipping.

Get creative and tailor the dish to your family’s preferences!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overcrowding the skillet while frying can lead to uneven cooking and soggy chicken.
• Not allowing the oil to heat sufficiently before adding chicken can result in greasy, unappetizing pieces.
• Forgetting to drain the fried chicken on paper towels can leave excess oil on your finished dish.

By keeping these tips in mind, your dish will be a hit!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store them:

• Allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
• Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.

Enjoy your leftovers in salads or wraps for a quick lunch!

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you can create the most incredible Crispy Bang Bang Chicken that will have your family asking for seconds. This recipe embodies my philosophy of making cooking enjoyable and accessible for everyone. I hope it becomes a cherished dish in your home, just as it has in mine!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully and provide additional moisture.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko offers a superior crunch. If you’re in a pinch, crushed crackers can also work!

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me in the kitchen today! I hope this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe inspires you to create delicious meals with your loved ones. Don’t forget to share your cooking adventures with me on social media. Happy cooking!

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