Let me tell you about my absolute favorite guilty pleasure: **Crispy Bang Bang Chicken**! I first stumbled across this recipe at a friends’ gathering where the hostess served up these crispy tenders as the star of the show. With every bite, I was in food heaven! The crunchy exterior combined with that spicy, tangy Bang Bang sauce had my taste buds dancing. Ever since that day, I’ve been on a mission to recreate the magic in my own kitchen, and boy, have I perfected it!
This dish is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s game day, a cozy movie night, or just a treat for yourself. Imagine hosting a gathering with friends, and as you bring these tempting tenders out of the kitchen, they instantly become the life of the party. And the best part? You can adjust the spice level in the sauce just to your liking, so there’s truly something for everyone. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special!
What’s in Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
Chicken Tenders: These are the stars of the show! I love using chicken tenders for their tenderness and quick cooking time.
Buttermilk: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk makes it juicy and adds flavor. Plus, it helps the flour coating stick better!
All-purpose Flour: This is what gives our chicken that golden, crispy crust that you’ll crave again and again.
Garlic Powder & Paprika: These seasonings add depth to the flavor, making each bite irresistible. I always make sure to use quality spices for the best taste.
Salt & Black Pepper: Just a pinch helps enhance all the other flavors.
Oil for Frying: I usually use vegetable or canola oil since they have a high smoke point, ensuring perfect frying every time.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base for our Bang Bang sauce. It adds a luscious texture to the dip.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This brings in that sweet yet tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.
Sriracha: For that kick! Adjust to your taste, but I wouldn’t judge you if you wanted to go all in!
Fresh Parsley: A touch of color and freshness to finish off the dish.
Is Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Good for You?
Well, let’s be honest, this dish is more about indulgence than clean eating. However, there are a few things to celebrate here!
Chicken Tenders: They are a lean source of protein, which is great for muscle repair and keeping you feeling full.
Buttermilk: While delicious, it does add some calories, but it’s also a source of calcium.
And let’s not forget about **moderation**! This isn’t something I whip up every day, but as a occasionally splurge, it can absolutely bring joy to your dining experience.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Oil for frying
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken?
1. Start by soaking the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses flavor.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mix will be your crispy coating!
3. Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). I usually sit by the stove, waiting for that perfect temp, like a kid waiting for cookies to bake!
4. Take the chicken out of the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Now, dredge each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
5. Fry the chicken tenders in batches, for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. I recommend not crowding the pan because nobody likes soggy chicken.
6. As you fry, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain that excess oil.
7. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to create your amazing Bang Bang sauce. Adjust the heat to your taste – I like to taste as I go!
8. Serve those crispy chicken tenders hot with the Bang Bang sauce on the side and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for presentation!
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Ready for some extra fun? If you’re looking for more crunch in every bite, consider double-dipping your chicken tenders in buttermilk and then flour again before frying. You can also pair this delicious dish with coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance out the flavors and textures.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding different spices to the dredging mix—like cayenne pepper for heat or some Italian herbs for an unexpected flavor twist!
So, there you have it! My trusty recipe for **Crispy Bang Bang Chicken**. I can’t wait for you to try it out! I’d love to hear how it goes—send me your kitchen adventures and let me know your thoughts! Enjoy your cooking, and happy munching!
