Crisp Bang Bang Chicken: 7 Must-Try Tricks for Extra Crunch

Introduction

Welcome to another delicious creation brought to you by Lily Hanna! If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that crispy chicken is pure comfort food magic. But have you ever wondered how to achieve that extra crunch at home without sacrificing flavor? Enter Crisp Bang Bang Chicken , a dish so irresistible, it’ll leave your taste buds dancing and your friends asking for seconds (and maybe thirds).

This Asian-inspired recipe combines perfectly golden, crunchy chicken with a creamy, tangy bang bang sauce that adds just the right amount of spice and zing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something comforting after a long day, this dish delivers every time. The best part? With a few simple tricks up your sleeve, achieving restaurant-quality crunch in your kitchen has never been easier.

In this guide, Lily Hanna will share seven must-try techniques to elevate your fried chicken game, along with serving suggestions and pro tips to make this dish truly unforgettable. Ready to dive in and discover what makes Crisp Bang Bang Chicken a standout favorite? Let’s get started!

Key Benefits

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s talk about why you should add Crisp Bang Bang Chicken to your repertoire:

• Healthier Than Takeout : By making this dish at home, you control the ingredients and can opt for healthier frying oils or even bake the chicken if you prefer.
• Customizable Spice Levels : Too spicy? Not spicy enough? This recipe allows you to adjust the heat to suit your palate.
• Impress Your Guests : Restaurant-quality crunch and flavor are within reach, and your friends and family won’t believe you made it yourself.
• Quick and Easy Preparation : While the results may seem complex, the process is straightforward and can be completed in under an hour.
• Versatile Pairings : From salads to rice bowls, this dish works as both an appetizer and a main course.

With these benefits in mind, let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

Ingredients

To make Crisp Bang Bang Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients. Feel free to adjust quantities based on how many servings you’d like to prepare.

For the Chicken

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into small, bite-sized chunks.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for dietary needs)
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with milk and lemon juice)
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Sriracha or Tabasco)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s walk through the steps to create Crisp Bang Bang Chicken with that coveted extra crunch.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then transfer it to the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breading. Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces.

Step 2: Chill the Breading

4. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces on a parchment paper-lined baking tray. Wrap them tightly with cling film and chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes. This step helps the breading stick better during frying and contributes to crispiness.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
6. Carefully add a few pieces of chicken to the oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Remove the chicken from the oil using a slotted spoon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

8. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, hot sauce, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Serve

9. Arrange the crispy chicken pieces on a platter and drizzle generously with the bang bang sauce. Enjoy the dish right away, accompanied by extra sauce for dipping on the side.

Pro Tips and Variations

Here are seven tricks to ensure your Crisp Bang Bang Chicken achieves that perfect crunch every time:

1. Double-Frying Technique : After frying the chicken once, allow it to rest for a few minutes before frying it again at a higher temperature (around 375°F or 190°C). This second fry enhances crispiness.
2. Cornstarch Power : Cornstarch creates a lighter, crispier coating compared to all-purpose flour alone. Always include it in your breading mix.
3. Chill Before Frying : Chilling the breaded chicken helps the coating adhere better and prevents it from falling off during frying.
4. Temperature Management: Keep an eye on the oil’s temperature using a thermometer for precise control. Too low, and the chicken will absorb too much oil; too high, and it may burn before cooking through.
5. Buttermilk Soak : Marinating the chicken in buttermilk beforehand tenderizes it and adds moisture, resulting in juicier bites.
6. Season Liberally : Don’t skimp on spices in your breading mix. They enhance flavor while contributing to texture.
7. Experiment with Sauces : While the classic bang bang sauce is divine, feel free to try other variations, such as adding sriracha for extra heat or substituting yogurt for a lighter option.

Variations:

• Add sesame seeds or crushed peanuts to the breading for added crunch and nuttiness.
• Consider replacing the chicken with shrimp or tofu to create a vegetarian alternative.
• Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a unique tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

Crisp Bang Bang Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Below are some concepts to spark ideas for your upcoming meal:

• Asian-Inspired Bowls : Serve the chicken over steamed jasmine rice or noodles topped with fresh vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and green onions.
• Wraps and Tacos : Wrap the chicken in lettuce leaves or tortillas with avocado slices, cucumber, and extra bang bang sauce for a handheld treat.
• Salads : Toss the chicken with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing lunch option.
• Appetizer Platters : Arrange the chicken on a tray with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and ranch dressing for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

FAQs

Is it possible to roast the chicken rather than frying it?

A: Absolutely! For baked Crisp Bang Bang Chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Coat the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray. Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning once midway, until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Note that baking may result in slightly less crunch than frying.

How do I store leftovers?

A: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness. Steer clear of using the microwave, as it may result in the chicken becoming overly moist and losing its texture.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

A: No problem! Combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to create a buttermilk substitute. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to curdle slightly, then use it as a buttermilk substitute.

Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

A: Yes! The sauce can be made ahead of time, up to two days in advance, and kept refrigerated until ready to use. Stir well before serving, as the ingredients may separate.

Conclusion

There you have it—a mouthwatering recipe for Crisp Bang Bang Chicken that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Thanks to Lily Hanna’s expert guidance and these seven must-try tricks, achieving that extra crunch has never been simpler. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, main course, or casual snack, this dish promises to impress everyone who tries it.

So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and give this recipe a try. And remember, Lily Hanna is always here to support your culinary adventures. Happy cooking!