Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe

If you crave a dish that is bursting with crispy, tender chicken smothered in a creamy, tangy, and spicy sauce, you have to try this Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe. It’s an absolute game changer in the kitchen, combining simple ingredients to create a mesmerizing balance of textures and bold flavors. Perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or any time you want to treat yourself, this dish will quickly become one of your favorites. With every bite, you’ll enjoy the crispy exterior giving way to juicy chicken pieces coated in a luscious sauce that’s just the right amount of spicy and sweet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe is refreshingly straightforward. The ingredients are everyday pantry staples, yet each one plays an essential role in creating that crave-worthy crunch and vibrant flavor profile that this dish is famous for.

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and juicy when cooked just right.
• Buttermilk: Acts as a marinade to tenderize the chicken while adding subtle creaminess.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the crispy coating that locks in moisture.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth with aromatic punches.
• Onion powder: Introduces a gentle sweetness and complexity.
• Paprika: Adds a smoky warmth and enticing color.
• Salt and black pepper: Fundamental seasonings to brighten the dish.
• Vegetable oil: For frying the chicken until gloriously golden and crisp.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the spicy mayo sauce that balances heat.
• Sweet chili sauce: Offers a delightful sweet-heat contrast.
• Sriracha: Gives the sauce its signature kick—adjust to your spice preference.
• Lime juice: Adds zesty brightness to lift the flavors.
• Honey (optional): A touch of sweetness that enhances the complexity of the sauce.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces—this ensures every piece gets perfectly cooked and coated with that irresistible sauce later on. Bite-sized pieces also make for easy snacking or serving at any meal.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken pieces into a bowl filled with buttermilk, fully submerging them. This simple step works wonders by tenderizing the chicken and adding subtle richness without overwhelming the natural flavor. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Mix the Flour Coating

While the chicken marinates, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. This spice mix is your golden ticket to that flavorful, crispy crust you’ll love biting into. Whisk it all together to distribute the spices evenly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture until coated thoroughly. This coating is crucial as it creates the signature crunch when fried, so make sure every piece is nicely covered.

Step 5: Rest the Coated Chicken

Let the coated pieces rest on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This step helps the coating to set, meaning it will stick better during frying and give you that perfect crispy texture.

Step 6: Prepare the Spicy Mayo Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and honey if you like a little extra sweetness. This sauce is the heart and soul of the Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe, offering a luscious and zesty complement that beautifully balances the fried chicken’s richness.

Step 7: Heat the Oil

Pour vegetable oil into a skillet to a depth of about half an inch and heat it over medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Achieving the right temperature is key to ensuring the chicken cooks through while turning golden and crispy.

Step 8: Fry the Chicken

Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry each side for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This frying process is where the magic happens, transforming simple chicken into a crispy delight.

Step 9: Drain the Chicken

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels. This simple step helps soak up excess oil, keeping the coating crisp without greasiness.

Step 10: Serve with Bang Bang Sauce

Arrange your crispy chicken pieces on a platter or individual plates, then generously drizzle the spicy mayo sauce over the top or serve it alongside as a dip. Each bite is an explosion of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Step 11: Add Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped green onions or sesame seeds over the top for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. These little touches elevate the presentation and add subtle crunch and freshness to every bite.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only brightens the plate visually but also introduces crisp texture and mild herbal notes, perfectly balancing the richness of the fried chicken and creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple yet refreshing sides such as steamed jasmine rice or a crunchy Asian-style slaw. The rice absorbs sauce beautifully, while a crisp slaw offers a cool contrast to the warm, spicy chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the bang bang chicken over a bed of mixed greens or colorful shredded cabbage. Alternatively, stack the chicken pieces on skewers for an easy-to-eat appetizer. Wrapping some in lettuce leaves with a drizzle of extra sauce can turn it into a fresh, handheld delight packed with texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect meal to enjoy again without any hassle.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken (without sauce) by placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. This way, you preserve the crispiness and can thaw it later. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh sauce after reheating.

Reheating

To maintain that crispy texture, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes instead of microwaving. After warming, drizzle your freshly mixed spicy mayo sauce over the warm chicken for best results.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add richer flavor, but be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. They may take a little longer to cook through due to the higher fat content.

How spicy is the Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe?

The spice level is adjustable by how much sriracha you add to the sauce. If you prefer milder heat, start with less and add more gradually. The sweetness from the sweet chili sauce balances out the heat nicely.

Can I bake instead of fry the chicken?

Yes, baking is a healthier option, though you won’t get the same level of crispiness. Bake at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for best results.

Is the sauce gluten-free?

Most of the sauce ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the sweet chili sauce label to ensure it doesn’t contain any gluten-based additives if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The spicy mayo sauce can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving to reincorporate any separated ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Bang Bang Chicken with Spicy Mayo Sauce Recipe is a delightful way to bring a restaurant-quality dish right to your own kitchen. It’s simple to make, wildly delicious, and bound to impress anyone lucky enough to share your table. So go ahead, dive into this crispy, saucy goodness soon—you won’t regret it!

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