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–+ servings

Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken. It's like the cooler, crunchier cousin of that Bang Bang Shrimp we all know and love.
5 from 1 vote
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Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For that addictive sauce:

  • 1 cup mayonnaise the real deal, please
  • 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Sriracha or more if you're feeling spicy
  • 2 tablespoons honey

For the star of the show (the chicken):

  • 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenderloins or chicken breast cut into strips if you're fancy
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 large egg room temperature (cold eggs are party poopers)
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, but recommended
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Canola oil for frying enough to make your chicken swim
  • Chopped parsley for garnish because we're fancy like that

Instructions

  • Sauce first: Mix mayo, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a bowl. Set aside and try not to eat it all.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. It'll look weird, but trust the process.
  • Toss your chicken in this magical mixture. Make sure they're all coated and happy.
  • Pour panko onto a plate. One by one, shake off excess batter from each tender and roll it in panko. Press gently to make sure it sticks.
  • Heat about an inch of oil in a large skillet to 365°F. Use a thermometer if you have one, or just wing it like I usually do.
  • Fry the chicken in batches (don't overcrowd!) for about 2-3 minutes per side. They should be golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temp if you're into food safety).
  • Drain on paper towels briefly, then transfer to a serving plate.
  • Drizzle generously with that bang bang sauce you've been eyeing.
  • Sprinkle with parsley to make it look fancy, then dig in while it's hot!

Notes

  • Leftovers (if you have any) will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. But let's be real, they won't last that long.
  • Freeze 'em for up to 6 months if you're into meal prep. Future you will be so grateful.
  • Air fryer or oven methods work great too. See above for deets.