Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces, this is the main protein for the dish.

Cornstarch: Used to coat the chicken pieces, giving them a crispy texture when fried.

Vegetable oil: Necessary for frying the chicken to a golden brown.

Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the creamy sauce that coats the chicken.

Sweet chili sauce: Adds a mild sweetness and a hint of spice to the sauce.

Sriracha: Provides a more intense heat, balancing the flavors in the sauce.

Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce, complementing the spicy elements.

When frying the chicken, ensure the oil is at the right temperature by using a thermometer. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before cooking through. If it's too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

• chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative for chicken breast in this recipe.

• cornstarch - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used to coat the chicken, providing a similar crispy texture when fried.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for frying.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.

• sweet chili sauce - Substitute with honey and hot sauce mixture: Mixing honey with hot sauce can mimic the sweet and spicy flavor of sweet chili sauce.

• sriracha - Substitute with hot sauce: Any hot sauce can be used to provide the heat and flavor similar to sriracha.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness and consistency as honey.

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.

• Transfer the cooled chicken into an airtight container. If you have a lot of chicken, consider using multiple containers to avoid overcrowding.

• Store the sauce separately in another airtight container. This keeps the chicken crispy when reheated.

• Place both containers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume within 3-4 days. For longer storage, move them to the freezer.

• When freezing, label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness. The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chicken pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer.

• Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. If reheating from frozen, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

• Warm the sauce separately in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Toss the reheated chicken in the sauce just before serving to maintain its crispiness.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover Bang Bang Chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and crispy. This method helps maintain the crispy texture of the chicken.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the Bang Bang Chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method is excellent for keeping the chicken crispy without adding extra oil.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the pan. Place the Bang Bang Chicken in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until heated through. This method is quick and helps retain some of the sauce's flavor.

• Microwave Method: Place the Bang Bang Chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through. While this method is the quickest, it may result in a less crispy texture.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the Bang Bang Chicken on a toaster oven tray. Heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is hot and crispy. This method is a great alternative to a conventional oven, especially for smaller portions.

• Frying pan: A large, deep pan used for frying the chicken pieces until they are golden and crispy.

• Tongs: Useful for turning the chicken pieces in the hot oil and for removing them from the pan.

• Paper towels: Used to drain the excess oil from the fried chicken pieces.

• Mixing bowl: A bowl used to whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey.

• Whisk: A tool used to mix the sauce ingredients until they are well combined.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the cornstarch, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and vegetable oil.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the sriracha and honey precisely.

• Knife: Necessary for cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.

• Cutting board: A surface used for cutting the chicken breast safely.

• Plate: Used to hold the dredged chicken pieces before frying.

• Serving dish: A dish used to serve the bang bang chicken once it is coated in the sauce.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and measure out the cornstarch, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey before you start cooking.

Use a deep fryer: If you have a deep fryer, it can save time and ensure even cooking of the chicken.

Make the sauce ahead: Whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey and store it in the fridge until ready to use.

Batch frying: Fry the chicken in larger batches to reduce overall cooking time.