Ah, friend! Gather ’round because I have the most incredible recipe to share with you today – *Crispy Bang Bang Chicken*! Seriously, this dish has a special place in my heart (and on my dinner table). Every time I whip it up, it brings back memories of family gatherings with everyone raving about how crispy and flavorful it is. Plus, who could resist that creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce? It’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth!
Let me tell you, I first tried this dish at a friend’s party, and I was instantly smitten. After pestering her for weeks, she finally shared her secret recipe, and now I can’t keep it to myself! Whether it’s game day or just another Tuesday night, this dish is perfect for impressing friends or simply treating yourself to something delicious. So, let’s dive in and cook up some crispy, spicy goodness together!
What’s in Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Chicken Tenders: The star of the show! I love using quality chicken tenders because they cook quickly and soak up all that delicious buttermilk. They become so tender and juicy!
Buttermilk: This creamy goodness not only marinates the chicken, making it super tender but also helps the coating adhere perfectly. If you can’t find buttermilk, a splash of vinegar in regular milk will do the trick.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of the crispy coating. I always keep a bag of flour on hand for all my frying needs.
Cornstarch: This little gem helps create that ultra-crispy, crunchy exterior. It’s like the secret weapon in frying!
Garlic Powder & Paprika: Ah, these two add a delightful kick of flavor. Plus, they make the chicken look all fancy and golden!
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional, but oh boy, if you like a little heat, don’t skip it! It adds just the right amount of spice.
Salt and Pepper: Always essential to bring out the flavors in every dish!
Oil: For frying, I usually go for canola or peanut oil because they have a high smoke point.
Mayonnaise: The base of our creamy Bang Bang sauce. I like using a good quality mayo for the best results.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds sweetness and a little zing. It’s absolutely necessary for that authentic Bang Bang flavor!
Sriracha: For those who dare to spice things up! Adjust according to your heat tolerance.
Lime Juice: Just a touch adds brightness and balances the richness of the sauce.
Fresh Parsley: A pop of green for garnish—because we eat with our eyes first, right?
Is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Good for You?
Is it healthy? Well, like all good things, moderation is key! This dish does have some tasty positives:
– **Chicken Tenders:** Lean protein, which is always a good thing. Protein helps build and repair tissues, plus it keeps you feeling fuller longer.
– **Buttermilk:** A good source of calcium and probiotics, but definitely go easy on the portion size—after all, it’s still a fried dish!
– **Spices:** Garlic and cayenne can help boost metabolism and add great flavor without calories.
However, let’s not forget that this recipe involves frying, which means it’s a treat to enjoy rather than an everyday meal, especially if you’re watching your calorie or fat intake.
Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Chicken (Serves 4)
– 1 pound chicken tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil, for frying
– **Bang Bang Sauce:**
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– **Garnish:**
– Fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
1. **Marinate Chicken:** In a large bowl, soak those chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or if you’re feeling extra, overnight in the refrigerator!). Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
2. **Prepare the Dry Coating:** In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This will be your golden shield!
3. **Coat the Chicken:** Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated. Shake off any excess and place them on a tray—patience is a virtue!
4. **Heat the Oil:** Grab a deep skillet or fryer, and heat oil over medium-high heat, about 350°F (175°C). The oil should shimmer; that means it’s ready for action!
5. **Fry the Chicken:** Fry the chicken in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C).
6. **Combine Bang Bang Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. Adjust the spiciness according to your preference—go on, live a little!
7. **Coat with Bang Bang Sauce:** Remove the crispy tenders from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb the excess oil. Once slightly cooled, drizzle or toss those bad boys in the Bang Bang sauce.
8. **Serve:** Arrange your crispy Bang Bang Chicken on a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Yum!
Extra Crispy Tips & Serving Suggestions
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations and tips to elevate your Bang Bang experience:
– **Serve it Up**: This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or a fresh green salad. The contrast with the crunchiness of the chicken is absolutely delightful!
– **Make it a Meal**: Feel free to add some grilled veggies or a side of crispy fries for a well-rounded feast.
– **Sauce Variations**: If you want to take it up a notch, try adding a dash of sesame oil to the sauce for a nutty flavor or swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter dip.
I can’t wait for you to try out this super fun and tasty Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe! It’s perfect for gatherings or just treating yourself after a long day. I promise it’ll have everyone begging for seconds! Let me know how yours turns out, and share any epic variations you come up with along the way. Happy cooking!
