Bang Bang Chicken: Crispy, Saucy Comfort in Under 30 Minutes

This easy Bang Bang Chicken is crispy, saucy, and downright addictive. Juicy bite-sized chicken pieces are pan-fried or air-fried until golden, then drizzled with a creamy, sweet-and-spicy Bang Bang sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a touch of Sriracha.

Like my recipe, or pecan crusted chicken with hot honey, it's a quick, restaurant-worthy dinner that brings Southern comfort and a little heat to your table in under 30 minutes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

If you've ever fallen for the famous Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp, this chicken version will steal your heart - and possibly your willpower. Like my recipe for air-fryer chicken leg quarters, it's quick, simple, and made from pantry staples you probably already have.

• Ready in under 30 minutes - no takeout required.
• Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside.
• Sauce so good you'll want to put it on everything (and I mean everything).
• Works for dinner, game day, or an easy appetizer platter.
• Family-friendly with customizable spice level.

"Around my house, if dinner's not both quick and lick-your-plate good, it doesn't make the cut - and this one passed with flying colors."

Main Ingredient Notes and Smart Swaps

Let's talk ingredients: what you need, what you can swap, and how to make it work with what's in your pantry. These are the main ingredients; the complete list is provided in the recipe card below.

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or tenderloins work best. Thighs also stay moist and flavorful if you prefer dark meat.
• Panko breadcrumbs: These are key to that signature crunch. If you only have regular breadcrumbs, toast them lightly first to mimic panko texture.
• Sauce: The iconic Bang Bang sauce blends mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Adjust the Sriracha to control the heat level.
• Oil: Peanut or pecan oil is great for frying, but vegetable or canola oil works fine, too.
• Eggs: Help the coating stick; if you're out, use buttermilk as a tasty alternative.
• Green onions: Add color, freshness, and a mild bite that balances the rich sauce.

Fun Twists and Tasty Variations

• Air fryer version: Spray with oil and cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Bang Bang Chicken Tacos: Wrap the chicken in flour tortillas with shredded lettuce and drizzle with sauce.
• Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowls: Layer with jasmine rice, steamed veggies, and extra sauce.
• Spicy honey twist: Add a drizzle of hot honey over the top for a sweet-heat finish.
• Use Greek yogurt: Instead of mayonnaise in the sauce for a lighter, slightly tangy twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Choose gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken (step-by-step guide)

This is a summary of the steps; the complete directions are in the recipe card below.

1. Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

2. Set up the coating: In a zip-top bag, combine panko, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Prep the chicken: Beat two eggs in a bowl, then dip the cubed chicken into the eggs.

4. Coat the chicken: Transfer the chicken to the panko bag and shake to coat.

5. Cook it: Stovetop: Heat ¼ cup peanut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken in batches and cook for 3 minutes on the first side, or until golden.

6. Cook it: Flip chicken, and cook 3 minutes on the other side until golden and cooked through (165°F).

7. Sauce it up and serve: Drizzle the sauce over the crispy chicken or serve it on the side for dipping. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Alternative cooking methods

• To cook in an air fryer, spray the basket with oil and cook for 8-10 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway.
• To cook in the oven, place on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, turning once.

Serving Ideas

Bang Bang Chicken plays well with almost anything!

• Serve over jasmine rice or coconut rice for a classic combo.
• Pair with spicy coleslaw, crispy sweet potato wedges, or Southern green beans and potatoes.
• Make tacos with soft flour tortillas and my spicy coleslaw.
• Add to wraps, rice bowls, or salads for an easy lunch the next day.

Shortcut to Supper (time-saving tips)

• Use pre-cubed chicken tenders to skip cutting time.
• Prep the bang bang sauce ahead - it keeps in the fridge for 4-5 days.
• Make a double batch of the dry coating mix and store it in a jar for next time.
• Air fry instead of pan-frying for faster cleanup and hands-off cooking.

Supper and Then Some (reimagining leftovers)

You know we're all about getting two meals from one. Here's how to make your leftover Bang Bang Chicken shine again:

• Bang Bang Chicken Wraps: Roll in tortillas with lettuce, shredded carrots, and extra sauce.
• Bang Bang Chicken Quesadillas: Add leftover chicken to cheese quesadillas.
• Bang Bang Chicken Salad: Toss with mixed greens and drizzle with a little rice vinegar dressing.
• Bang Bang Fried Rice: Chop up leftovers and use them instead of the chicken called for in this recipe for shrimp and chicken fried rice.

Make it Ahead (plan and prep tips)

• Sauce: Make up to 5 days in advance and refrigerate.
• Chicken: Bread up to 8 hours before cooking; keep covered in the fridge.
• Cooked chicken: Best fresh, but you can reheat in an air fryer or oven to re-crisp before serving.
• Meal prep idea: Portion rice and veggies into containers and top with sauced chicken right before eating.

Recipe FAQs

Pro tips for perfect results

• Don't overcrowd the pan - it steams the chicken instead of crisping it.
• For maximum crunch, double-coat the chicken (dip back into egg and panko before frying).
• Use a wire rack instead of paper towels for cooling; it keeps the bottom from getting soggy.
• Taste the sauce and adjust for sweetness or spice before serving.
• Garnish right before serving to keep onions bright and crisp.

"This recipe has been tested multiple times on both the stovetop and air fryer. I love the stovetop version for its rich, golden crunch - and my husband swears the air fryer one's just as good (and less messy). Either way, it's proof that simple Southern suppers can still feel restaurant-special." - Sharon

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Pull up a Chair and Join the Conversation

Did you make this recipe for Bang Bang Chicken and give it your own twist, or have a shortcut that made it even easier? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don't forget to leave a star rating. Your feedback helps others (and totally makes my day).

Thanks so much for visiting Practical Southern Cooking! I hope you'll stop by again soon for more no-fuss comfort food and simple Southern favorites.