Some recipes are guaranteed crowd-pleasers from the very first bite, and Ultimate Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sweet Spicy Crunch is one of them. Imagine golden, crunchy chicken pieces coated in a creamy, sweet-and-spicy sauce that delivers bold flavor with every bite. It’s the kind of dish that works beautifully for game nights, casual gatherings, or when you simply want to turn an ordinary dinner into something exciting.
This recipe takes inspiration from popular restaurant-style Bang Bang Chicken but elevates it with a perfectly seasoned coating and a balanced homemade sauce. The contrast between crispy texture and creamy heat makes it irresistible. Whether served as an appetizer, in wraps, or over rice, this sweet spicy crunch will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why This Bang Bang Chicken Is So Addictive
The magic of this dish lies in the balance:
- Extra crispy coating for maximum crunch
- Tender, juicy chicken inside
- Creamy sauce with sweet and spicy notes
- Quick cooking time
- Perfect for sharing
Every bite delivers texture, flavor, and just the right kick of heat.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
- ½ teaspoon (1 g) black pepper
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) paprika
For the Coating
- 1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (60 g) cornstarch
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) milk
- 1 ½ cups (150 g) panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying (about 2 cups / 480 ml for deep frying or enough for 1 inch / 2.5 cm in skillet)
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup (230 g) mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) fresh lime juice
Optional Garnish
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces (about 1–1½ inches / 2.5–4 cm).
Season with:
- 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
- ½ teaspoon (1 g) black pepper
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon (2 g) paprika
2. Set Up Breading Station
Prepare three bowls:
Bowl 1: Mix flour and cornstarch.
Bowl 2: Whisk eggs with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) milk.
Bowl 3: Add panko breadcrumbs.
3. Coat the Chicken
- Dredge chicken pieces in flour mixture.
- Dip into egg wash.
- Roll in panko, pressing gently to adhere.
Place on a tray and let rest 5–10 minutes.
4. Fry Until Golden
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry chicken in batches 3–4 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Transfer to a wire rack to drain.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup (230 g) mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tablespoons (15–30 ml) sriracha
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) lime juice
Adjust spice level as desired.
6. Toss and Serve
Lightly toss crispy chicken in sauce or drizzle over the top.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve immediately.
Why This Recipe Works
Cornstarch + Flour Combo
This creates a lighter, crispier crust.
Panko Breadcrumbs
Adds extra crunch compared to traditional breadcrumbs.
Balanced Sauce
Sweet chili and honey provide sweetness, while sriracha adds controlled heat.
Tips for Extra Crunch
- Do not overcrowd the fryer.
- Maintain oil at 350°F (175°C).
- Let breaded chicken rest before frying.
- Serve immediately after saucing.
- Use a wire rack instead of paper towels for crispier results.
Serving Ideas
- Serve as appetizer with dipping sauce
- Add to lettuce wraps
- Place in tacos with crunchy slaw
- Serve over jasmine rice
- Make a Bang Bang chicken sandwich
- Pair with stir-fried vegetables
Storage and Reheating
- Store chicken and sauce separately up to 3 days.
- Reheat chicken in oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes.
- Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.
- Sauce should be refrigerated in airtight container.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying lightly with oil.
2. Can I make it less spicy?
Reduce sriracha to 1 tablespoon (15 ml) or omit entirely for milder flavor.
3. Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs are juicy and flavorful. Adjust cooking time as needed.
4. What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil work best due to high smoke point.
Final Thoughts
Ultimate Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sweet Spicy Crunch delivers everything you want in a bold, satisfying dish. The golden, crispy coating provides that irresistible crunch, while the creamy sweet-and-spicy sauce adds layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. It can be an appetizer, main course, party snack, or meal prep favorite. The contrast between crisp exterior and juicy interior ensures it never feels ordinary.
Once you master the simple breading and frying technique, you can confidently recreate this restaurant-style favorite at home. Serve it hot, toss it generously in sauce, and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet heat and crispy perfection.
