If you’ve ever craved something crispy, spicy, sweet, and downright addictive, Authentic Bang Bang Chicken is your answer. This iconic Asian-inspired dish is beloved for its perfectly fried chicken coated in a creamy, tangy, chili-laced sauce. Whether you’re hosting guests or just want to spice up your weeknight dinner, this dish packs a serious punch in both flavor and presentation.
What Is Authentic Bang Bang Chicken?
Originally inspired by Sichuan street food, Bang Bang Chicken has evolved into a popular American-Chinese fusion dish. While traditional versions involve shredded poached chicken with sesame sauce, modern “Bang Bang” recipes feature crispy fried chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce made with mayo, sweet chili, and sriracha.
Ingredients for Authentic Bang Bang Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavor-packed favorite at home:
For the Chicken:
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500g boneless chicken thighs or breast, cut into strips
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1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
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1 cup cornstarch
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Oil for deep frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
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1/2 cup mayonnaise (Japanese Kewpie preferred)
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1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
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1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
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1 tsp honey (optional for extra sweetness)
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1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
Garnishes:
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Chopped scallions
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Toasted sesame seeds
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Red chili flakes (optional)
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Thin red pepper or cabbage strips (optional)
How to Make Authentic Bang Bang Chicken – Step by Step
Follow this guide for foolproof results every time:
1: Marinate the Chicken
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Soak the chicken in buttermilk for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
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This tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick better.
2: Prepare the Dredge
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In a bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
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Coat each chicken piece in the dry mixture, pressing to ensure full coverage.
3: Fry Until Crispy
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Heat oil in a deep skillet (350°F / 175°C).
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Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through (5–7 minutes).
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Drain on a paper towel or wire rack.
4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
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Whisk together mayo, chili sauce, sriracha, vinegar, and honey in a bowl.
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Taste and adjust spice or sweetness to your liking.
5: Toss and Serve
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Gently toss the fried chicken in the sauce.
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Plate and garnish with sesame seeds, scallions, and chili flakes.
Why Is It Called “Bang Bang” Chicken?
The name originally comes from the Chinese term “bàng bàng jī” (棒棒鸡), where chicken was pounded or shredded using a wooden stick. Today, the name reflects the explosive flavor and not the preparation. Authentic Bang Bang Chicken brings that “bang” through its layered spicy, creamy, and sweet notes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken
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Double fry for extra crispiness: Let the chicken rest 5 minutes after the first fry, then fry again for 2–3 minutes.
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Use Japanese mayo: It adds more umami richness.
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Serve immediately: For maximum crunch, don’t let the chicken sit in the sauce too long.
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Air fryer option: Spray coated chicken with oil and air-fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
What to Serve With Bang Bang Chicken?
This dish is versatile and pairs well with many sides:
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Steamed jasmine or sticky rice
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Asian slaw or cucumber salad
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Stir-fried vegetables
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Lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
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Noodles or vermicelli bowls
Is Bang Bang Chicken Spicy?
It can be—but the heat is easily adjustable. The sriracha brings the spice, so start with a small amount and increase as needed. If you’re cooking for kids or spice-sensitive guests, use sweet chili sauce alone and skip the sriracha.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Use an oven or air fryer to re-crisp the chicken; avoid microwaving as it will make it soggy.
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Freezer: Not recommended after saucing. You can freeze the fried (unsauced) chicken for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between Bang Bang Chicken and General Tso’s Chicken?
Answer: General Tso’s is a sweet, sticky, soy-based sauce with a hint of spice, while Bang Bang Chicken has a creamy, tangy, and chili-mayo based flavor.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken healthier?
Answer: Yes! Air-fry or bake the chicken instead of deep frying, and use Greek yogurt in place of mayo for a lighter sauce.
Is Bang Bang Chicken gluten-free?
Answer: Not by default. Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch, and ensure the sauces are gluten-free to make it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I use another protein instead of chicken?
Answer: Absolutely. Shrimp, tofu, or cauliflower are great alternatives for this recipe.
Can I prepare Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?
Answer: You can prep the components in advance, but it’s best to fry and sauce just before serving to preserve crispiness.
Conclusion: Make This Bang Bang Chicken Your New Go-To Dish
Authentic Bang Bang Chicken is more than just a trend—it’s an explosion of bold, irresistible flavor that’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home. With crispy chicken, a perfectly balanced sauce, and vibrant garnishes, this dish will quickly become your favorite for weeknights, parties, or any time you’re craving something extraordinary.
