Crispy fried chicken tenders coated in a bold, sweet, and spicy bang bang sauce. This addictive dish combines golden crunch with a creamy chili kick—perfect for game nights, appetizers, or a flavor-packed main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Bang Bang Chicken recipe offers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors: crunchy, juicy chicken meets a velvety sauce with just the right balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Serve it as a party appetizer, wrap it in tacos, or pair it with rice for a satisfying meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

chicken tenders
buttermilk
all-purpose flour
cornstarch
garlic powder
paprika
salt and pepper
oil, for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

mayonnaise
sweet chili sauce
sriracha
honey
rice vinegar

Optional Garnish:

chopped fresh parsley or green onions

directions

Marinate the chicken:

Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.

Prepare the coating:

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.

Fry the chicken:

Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
Fry in batches for 5–6 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Make the bang bang sauce:

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth.

Toss and serve:

While the chicken is still hot, toss it in the bang bang sauce until evenly coated.
Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

Baked Version: Bake breaded chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once, for a lighter version.
Air Fryer Option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Shrimp Substitute: Use shrimp instead of chicken for bang bang shrimp.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch alternatives.
Extra Heat: Add chili flakes or more sriracha to the sauce for a spicier kick.
Asian Twist: Garnish with sesame seeds and serve over jasmine rice.
Sliders: Serve in small buns with lettuce for mini bang bang sandwiches.
Taco Style: Wrap in tortillas with slaw and avocado for bang bang chicken tacos.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store sauce separately to maintain crispness.
Reheating: Reheat chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or in an air fryer for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve crisp texture.
Freezing: Breaded and fried chicken can be frozen before saucing. Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a container. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips to use as a substitute for tenders.

What is bang bang sauce made of?

It is a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce typically made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, but fry the chicken just before serving for optimal crispness.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, use a dairy-free milk and vinegar mixture as a buttermilk substitute and ensure your mayonnaise is dairy-free.

Can I reduce the spice level?

Yes, use less sriracha or omit it entirely for a milder version.

How do I ensure my chicken is crispy?

Use a combination of flour and cornstarch, fry at the right temperature, and do not overcrowd the pan.

Can I double the sauce recipe?

Absolutely. Doubling the sauce is a good idea if you’re serving as a dip or want extra for drizzling.

What oil is best for frying?

Use neutral oils with high smoke points like canola, peanut, or vegetable oil.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The exterior should be golden and crisp.

What can I serve with bang bang chicken?

It pairs well with rice, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or inside wraps and tacos.

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Chicken delivers a powerful punch of flavor and texture in every bite. With its crackling coating and creamy, spicy sauce, it’s a versatile recipe suited to casual gatherings, appetizers, or weeknight dinners. Easy to adapt and quick to prepare, this dish is bound to become a repeat favorite in any kitchen.