Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavor-packed adventure? Introducing Bang Bang Chicken Bites, the perfect blend of crispy, spicy, and creamy that makes for an irresistible appetizer or snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something delicious, this recipe is sure to impress. With tender chicken breast coated in a crunchy cornstarch mixture and tossed in a sensational sauce, these bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering treats at home!
Why It Works Every Time
The secret to the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bites lies in the combination of textures and flavors. The chicken is marinated in sesame oil and seasoned to perfection, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful. Coating the chicken in cornstarch creates an extra crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. This balance of crunch and creaminess, along with a hint of lime, makes every bite a delightful experience.
Shopping List
- 2 pounds chicken breast – The star of the show; choose fresh or thawed chicken for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – For that crispy coating.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon pepper – A touch of spice to season the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Brings an aromatic depth to the dish.
- 2 teaspoons sriracha – For a kick of heat.
- ½ cup mayonnaise – The creamy base for the sauce.
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and a hint of heat.
- 2 teaspoons lime juice – Brightens the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (for sauce) – To spice things up even more!
Must-Have Equipment
- Cutting board – For prepping your chicken.
- Sharp knife – Ensures clean and precise cuts.
- Mixing bowls – For marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce.
- Frying pan or deep fryer – For frying those crispy chicken bites.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To get your ingredient quantities just right.
- Serving platter – To present your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bites.
Stepwise Method: Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure that each piece cooks evenly and is easy to eat.
Step 2: Marinate
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with sesame oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sriracha. Mix well to ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
After marinating, sprinkle the cornstarch over the chicken pieces. Toss to coat evenly, ensuring each piece is well-covered for maximum crunchiness.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the chicken for even frying.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and sriracha. Adjust the amount of sriracha according to your heat preference.
Step 7: Toss and Serve
In a large bowl, combine the crispy chicken bites with the Bang Bang sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece. Serve immediately on a platter and enjoy!
In-Season Swaps
- Chicken thighs – For a richer flavor and juicier bite.
- Fresh herbs – Add cilantro or green onions for a fresh garnish.
- Different hot sauces – Experiment with your favorite brands for unique flavor profiles.
- Yogurt – Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
- Chicken is soggy: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil and become soggy.
- Not enough crunch: Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with cornstarch and avoid overcrowding the frying pan.
- Sauce is too spicy: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the sauce to suit your taste. You can also add more mayonnaise or sweet chili sauce to mellow it out.
- Chicken is dry: Avoid overcooking the chicken. Fry in batches and keep an eye on the color and texture.
Save It for Later
If you want to enjoy these Bang Bang Chicken Bites later, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. Alternatively, you can microwave them, but they may lose some crunch.
Bang Bang Chicken Bites FAQs
Can I bake Bang Bang Chicken Bites instead of frying?
Yes! You can bake them by placing the coated chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and spraying them lightly with cooking spray. Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Can I use frozen chicken breast?
It’s best to thaw frozen chicken breast completely before marinating and cooking. This ensures even cooking and flavor absorption.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Substitute cornstarch with a gluten-free flour blend or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating. Make sure the sauces you choose are also gluten-free.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with fresh veggies, rice, or even as a topping for salads. They make a fantastic addition to any party platter, too!
Similar Recipes
- Spicy Chicken Tacos
- Thai Chicken Salad
- Easy Chickpea Curry
- Baked Chicken Nuggets
- Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Wrap-Up
Bang Bang Chicken Bites are not just a dish; they’re an experience. The combination of crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and a hint of spice makes this recipe a must-try for any home cook. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Enjoy these flavorful bites and share them with family and friends, because once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again.
Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with sesame oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sriracha. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- After marinating, sprinkle cornstarch over the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
- In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat oil over medium-high heat to submerge the chicken for even frying.
- Carefully add the coated chicken pieces in batches and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towel.
- In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and sriracha. Adjust sriracha to your heat preference.
- In a large bowl, combine the crispy chicken bites with the Bang Bang sauce and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Ensure oil is hot enough to avoid sogginess.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
