Bang Bang Chicken (Print Version)

Juicy fried chicken chunks coated in creamy, sweet and spicy bang bang sauce. The perfect party appetizer!

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Bang Bang Sauce

01 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
02 - 1/4 cup chili-garlic sauce
03 - 2 teaspoons sriracha
04 - 1 tablespoon honey
05 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
06 - 1 teaspoon lemon juice
07 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Chicken

08 - 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
09 - 1/2 cup buttermilk

→ Coating

10 - 3/4 cup corn starch
11 - 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
12 - Salt and pepper to taste

→ Frying & Garnish

13 - Vegetable oil for frying
14 - Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
15 - Spicy chili flakes for garnish

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, chili-garlic sauce, sriracha, honey, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt and pepper until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
02 - Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pot to 375°F over medium-high heat. Test readiness by dropping in a small amount of cornstarch - it should immediately sizzle.
03 - In a large bowl, toss chicken pieces with buttermilk until well coated. Let soak for a few minutes while oil heats.
04 - In a separate medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper until combined.
05 - Remove chicken from buttermilk and shake off excess. Dredge chicken pieces in seasoned cornstarch mixture until evenly coated.
06 - Fry chicken pieces in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked through and lightly golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
07 - Toss hot fried chicken with bang bang sauce until well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley and chili flakes. Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side.

# Extra Tips & Details:

01 - Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 375°F for optimal crispiness
02 - Don't overcrowd the pot when frying - work in batches for even cooking
03 - For milder heat, substitute smoked paprika for cayenne pepper in both sauce and coating
04 - Chicken thighs can be substituted for breast meat for extra juiciness
05 - Air fryer alternative: cook at 400°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through