If you’re craving crispy chicken with a sweet-and-spicy kick, this Bang Bang Chicken delivers in a big way.

Tender chicken tenderloins are coated in a flavorful buttermilk batter, fried until golden, and tossed in a creamy homemade bang bang sauce.

It’s indulgent, crave-worthy, and totally irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy outside, juicy inside – The perfect fried chicken texture.

Easy homemade sauce – Tangy, spicy, sweet, and creamy in one drizzle.

Better than takeout – Customize the heat level to your taste.

Versatile – Serve over rice, in tacos, or with a side salad.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise – The base of the sauce; creamy and rich.

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweet heat and tang.

Sriracha – Brings spice and bold flavor.

Honey – A touch of sweetness to balance the heat.

Chicken & Breading

Chicken Tenderloins – Boneless, skinless, and perfect for quick cooking.

Buttermilk Batter – With flour, cornstarch, egg, and seasoning for deep flavor.

Panko Breadcrumbs – Extra crisp and light.

Canola Oil – Great for frying due to its high smoke point.

Parsley – For a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken

Step 1: Make the Sauce

Stir together mayo, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.

Chill until ready.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

Whisk buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, and spices. Toss in chicken.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Coat each piece in panko, pressing gently.

Set aside on a clean plate.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Fill skillet with oil and heat to 365°F over medium-high.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Fry in batches until golden and cooked through, flipping once.

Drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Coat with Sauce

Toss hot chicken with bang bang sauce.

Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over jasmine rice or Asian noodles

Wrap in tortillas for crispy chicken tacos

Pair with a cabbage slaw or cucumber salad

Use as a protein in rice bowls or lettuce wraps

Tips & Variations

Air Fryer Option: Spray breaded chicken with oil and air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Make it spicier: Add extra sriracha or a pinch of cayenne to the sauce.

Make ahead: Keep sauce and fried chicken separate, and reheat in oven or air fryer to re-crisp.

Don’t skip the cornstarch: It creates that extra light, crisp crust.

FAQs

Can I bake this instead of frying?
Yes, though it won’t be as crispy.

Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying with oil.

Is it spicy?
Mildly. You can adjust the heat by adding or reducing Sriracha.

What can I use instead of chicken tenderloins?
Chicken breasts cut into strips or even boneless thighs work well.

Can I use store-bought bang bang sauce?
You can, but homemade has a fresher, more balanced flavor.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken is the ultimate combination of crispy, creamy, and spicy-sweet.

Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a main, or a party snack, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to takeout!

The Boat Shed Kitchen