Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that has captivated taste buds worldwide with its bold, zesty flavors. Originating from Sichuan, China, this dish gets its unique name from the “bang bang” sound of wooden mallets tenderizing the chicken. Known for its spicy and nutty sesame sauce, it’s a perfect blend of heat, sweetness, and creaminess that pairs beautifully with crispy chicken.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making this culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
2 large chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust for spice level)
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
For Garnish:
2 green onions, finely chopped
Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
Place them in a bowl with buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more tenderness).
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar.
Step 5: Combine and Garnish
Toss the crispy chicken pieces in the Bang Bang sauce until well coated.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
History of Bang Bang Chicken
Bang Bang Chicken, or “Bang-Bang Ji,” originated in Sichuan Province, China. The dish’s name comes from the traditional preparation method where cooked chicken was pounded to achieve a tender texture. Vendors would strike the chicken with mallets to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating creamy, spicy sauces in Western adaptations, such as the now-famous Bang Bang sauce.
Benefits of Bang Bang Chicken
Protein-Packed: Chicken provides high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Versatile Dish: The sauce can be adapted for other proteins like shrimp or tofu.
Rich Flavor Profile: Combines sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors in one dish.
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
High in Protein Chicken is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle building, repair, and overall body function. It’s perfect for maintaining energy levels and keeping you feeling fuller for longer.
Versatile and Customizable
This dish can be tailored to meet different dietary preferences:
Use air frying instead of deep frying for a healthier option.
Swap chicken for tofu, shrimp, or even cauliflower for vegetarian or seafood twists
Rich Flavor with Balanced Nutrition The Bang Bang sauce combines sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, creating a balanced taste that makes healthy eating enjoyable. The dish can be paired with fresh vegetables or whole grains to make a wholesome, nutrient-rich meal.
Boosts Metabolism
The spiciness from the Sriracha and sweet chili sauce can help boost metabolism and improve digestion. Capsaicin in chili has thermogenic properties that encourage calorie burning
Encourages Creative Cooking
Bang Bang Chicken allows for innovation in the kitchen. From experimenting with spice levels to creating healthier versions, this dish inspires creativity and culinary exploration.
Perfect for Meal Prepping
The crispy chicken and tangy sauce can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prepping. You can assemble the dish quickly for lunchboxes or midweek dinners.
Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a family dinner, a casual party, or a potluck, Bang Bang Chicken’s bold flavors and appealing presentation make it a hit with all age groups
Pairable with Healthy Sides
Complement the dish with steamed vegetables, salads, or whole grains to enhance its nutritional profile without compromising taste.
Incorporating Bang Bang Chicken into your meal rotation provides not just flavor but a variety of health and practical benefits that make it a worthwhile dish to prepare and enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
Bang Bang Chicken pairs perfectly with:
Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice
Stir-fried vegetables
Fresh cucumber salad
Nutritional Information(Per Serving)
Calories: 400
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fats: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 700mg
Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 450mg
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
Calories: 80
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 6g
Sodium: 250mg
Total (Chicken + Sauce):
Calories: 400
Protein: 26g
Carbohydrates: 27g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 700mg
Fiber: 1g
Ways to Modify Nutrition
Lower Calories and Fat: Use an air fryer instead of deep frying.
Reduce Sodium: Use low-sodium mayonnaise and sauces.
Increase Fiber: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or whole-grain rice.
This nutritional breakdown ensures you can enjoy the dish while being mindful of your dietary goals!
Formation of the Dish
Creating Bang Bang Chicken is like crafting a masterpiece: the crispy texture of the chicken acts as the canvas, and the sauce is the bold stroke of flavor that elevates it to the next level. Every element plays a role, from the marination to the garnishing.
Who Will Love This Dish?
Bang Bang Chicken is perfect for:
Spice Enthusiasts: The heat from Sriracha and chili sauce is a dream come true.
Casual Food Lovers: It’s an excellent option for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Adventurous Cooks: Those who love experimenting with bold flavors.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or serving it at a party, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The blend of history, nutrition, and irresistible taste makes it a winner for every occasion.
So, why wait? Grab your ingredients and bring this iconic dish to life!