If you love that perfect combination of crunch, spice, and creamy tang, you are going to fall head over heels for this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites Recipe. These irresistible little chicken pieces are coated in a crisp, golden crust and then slathered with a luscious, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce that bursts with flavor in every single bite. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, craving an easy weeknight dinner, or just want a snack that feels like a celebration, this dish delivers all that excitement with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. It’s like a flavor party happening right in your kitchen, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple yet essential—they build layers of texture and flavor that elevate the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites Recipe from ordinary to unforgettable. From the crisp coating to the creamy spicy sauce, each component plays a starring role.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs: Choosing tender chicken pieces ensures juicy bites that crisp up beautifully.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the base for the crispy coating that gets wonderfully golden.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch: Adds an extra light and crunchy texture to the coating.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Brings savory depth to the coating mix.
- 1 tsp paprika: Offers mild smoky flavor and a lovely color to the crust.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of spicy warmth.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken while helping the coating stick perfectly.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: Provides the ideal frying medium for crispiness without overpowering the flavor.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the irresistible Bang Bang sauce.
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce: Brings sweetness and subtle heat that balances beautifully.
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste): Adds the kick that makes the sauce exciting and vibrant.
- 1 tsp honey: Just a touch of natural sweetness to round out the sauce.
- 1 tsp rice vinegar: Introduces a bright acidity that keeps everything fresh.
- Chopped green onions: Adds color and a mild onion crunch as a garnish.
- Sesame seeds (optional): Provides a subtle nutty flavor and wonderful visual appeal.
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Coating Mix
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This blend is what gives the chicken that signature crisp, flavor-packed exterior. Make sure it’s well combined so every bite of chicken is evenly seasoned.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken piece first into the creamy buttermilk—this tenderizes the meat and helps the coating adhere. Then press the chicken into the flour mixture, ensuring each bite is thoroughly coated. This double-step coating is key for that irresistible crunch.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry your coated chicken pieces in batches, being careful not to crowd the pan. Each batch will take about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the chicken turns a perfect golden brown and is cooked through. Drain on a wire rack or paper towels to keep the crust crisp.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth and well blended. This sauce is creamy, sweet, tangy, and has just the right amount of heat—so delicious it’s hard not to lick the spoon!
Step 5: Toss and Coat
Place the crispy chicken bites in a large bowl and toss them with the Bang Bang sauce until every piece is generously glazed. This step transforms crispy chicken into that celebrated Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites Recipe everyone raves about.
How to Serve Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped green onions and a few sesame seeds over the saucy chicken bites for a fresh crunch and a pop of color. These simple garnishes not only amp up the presentation but also add subtle layers of flavor that make each bite that much more exciting.
Side Dishes
Serve your Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites alongside crunchy vegetable sticks, fluffy steamed rice, or a refreshing Asian slaw. These options complement the rich and spicy bites by bringing freshness and balance to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling extra fun, stack the chicken bites on skewers for party-friendly finger food, or pile them high on a colorful platter garnished with extra sauce served on the side. Presentation can turn a simple dish into an unforgettable experience, and this recipe shines no matter how you choose to serve it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites keep best when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep the sauce separate if possible to preserve the chicken’s crispiness, and enjoy them within 2 days for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken bites, but it’s best to do so before tossing in the Bang Bang sauce. Freeze them on a baking sheet in a single layer first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month and reheat wonderfully when you’re ready for a quick snack.
Reheating
For reheating, warm the chicken bites in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the coating soggy. Once heated, toss the chicken in fresh Bang Bang sauce for that just-made taste.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly fattier and more flavorful, which makes them a fantastic alternative. Just cut them into similar-sized bite pieces to ensure even cooking.
How spicy is the Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites Recipe?
The level of spice is totally customizable thanks to the sriracha sauce. You can add more for an extra kick or tone it down if you prefer milder flavors. The sweet chili sauce balances the heat beautifully.
Is it possible to bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, to make a lighter version, you can bake the coated chicken bites at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. While baking won’t achieve the same deep crispiness as frying, it still makes delicious chicken bites.
What can I substitute if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This homemade buttermilk substitute will work beautifully in the recipe.
Can the Bang Bang sauce be made ahead of time?
Definitely! The Bang Bang sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This is a great time saver, and the flavors often deepen when the sauce sits overnight.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the combination of crispy, juicy chicken and that creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce, which is why this Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites to share. It’s quick to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for so many occasions. I can’t wait for you to try these bites and watch them disappear as fast as they’re served. Trust me, once you do, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen too!
Print
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites are a flavorful and irresistible appetizer featuring tender bite-sized pieces of chicken coated in a crispy seasoned flour mixture, fried to golden perfection, and tossed in a creamy, spicy, and tangy Bang Bang sauce. Garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this dish offers a perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and heat, ideal for a quick snack or party platter.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a seasoned coating for the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, ensuring it is fully moistened, then dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even and thick coating all around each bite-sized piece.
- Heat Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a skillet to a depth of about 1-2 inches and heat over medium-high heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C), ready for frying.
- Fry Chicken: Working in batches, carefully fry the coated chicken pieces in the hot oil for 4 to 5 minutes or until they develop a deep golden brown color and become crispy on the outside. Remove and drain them on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well blended, balancing creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors.
- Toss Chicken with Sauce: Place the crispy fried chicken pieces into a large bowl and pour the Bang Bang sauce over them. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions and optional sesame seeds over the coated chicken bites. Serve immediately with extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying to allow the flour mixture to set.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha sauce based on your preferred spice level.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to prevent soggy or burnt chicken.
- Serve with extra Bang Bang sauce or a cooling ranch dip if desired.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier bites, or chicken breast for a leaner option.
- To make the recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
