These Bang Bang Chicken Bites are a feast for the senses. Golden and crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and coated in a sauce that perfectly balances heat and sweetness, they’re irresistible from the first bite. The vibrant garnish of green onions adds a fresh finish to an already stunning dish.
Perfect for sharing, these bites will steal the show at any party or gathering. But they’re just as enjoyable as a weeknight indulgence for the whole family. With their bold flavor and crispy texture, they’re guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or your favorite hot sauce
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
Directions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) or your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a dredging station: place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the panko breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne in a third.
- Coat each chicken piece by dredging it in flour, dipping it in the egg, and then pressing it into the breadcrumb mixture. Shake off any excess coating.
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on a baking sheet if using the oven.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. If baking, cook for 12–15 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway until they are golden and crisp.
- While the chicken cooks, mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a large bowl. Adjust the heat level of the sauce to your preference.
- Once the chicken bites are cooked, immediately toss them in the sauce to coat evenly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: ~280 per serving
Servings: 4
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fats: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Bang Bang Chicken Bites are everything you crave in a snack, appetizer, or light meal. Imagine perfectly crispy, golden chicken bites coated in a sauce that’s equal parts creamy, sweet, and spicy. Each bite delivers a symphony of textures and flavors, with the crunch of the panko breadcrumbs balancing the silky heat of the sauce. The garnish of fresh green onions adds a subtle sharpness and a refreshing pop of color to the dish.
This recipe is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, looking for a fun dinner idea, or simply satisfying your spicy food cravings, these chicken bites fit the bill. The recipe offers a healthier twist by air frying or baking the chicken instead of deep frying, yet it still delivers a restaurant-quality finish that will leave your guests impressed.
The Secret Behind the Sauce
The magic of Bang Bang Chicken Bites lies in the sauce. Made from just three ingredients—mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha—it’s both simple and addictive. The mayonnaise provides creaminess, the sweet chili sauce adds a tangy sweetness, and the sriracha brings a bold kick of heat. This balance makes the dish universally appealing; it’s flavorful without being overwhelming, so even those who shy away from spice can enjoy it.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Level up the heat: For spice lovers, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a drizzle of extra sriracha to the sauce.
- Go gluten-free: Swap regular flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Experiment with protein: While chicken is the star of this dish, shrimp or tofu can be excellent substitutes for a fun twist.
- Extra crunch: Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for added flavor and crispiness.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Bites
These bites are a hit on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with complementary sides or dips:
- Rice bowl: Serve over steamed white rice or jasmine rice to make it a full meal.
- Salad topper: Add the bites to a crisp green salad with a drizzle of extra sauce for a bold and satisfying lunch.
- Sliders: Use the chicken bites as a filling for mini sliders with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of the bang bang sauce.
- Vegetable sticks: Pair with carrot and celery sticks for a classic appetizer presentation.
Why Your Readers Will Love This Recipe
Bang Bang Chicken Bites bring the excitement of restaurant-style appetizers right into your kitchen. Readers will love how easy it is to recreate this fan-favorite dish at home, without needing complicated ingredients or equipment. The recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.
Make It a Family Favorite
If you’re cooking for kids or spice-sensitive eaters, tone down the heat by reducing the amount of sriracha in the sauce. The bites still deliver on flavor and crispiness, making them a hit with all age groups. You can even serve the sauce on the side for dipping, giving everyone control over how much heat they want to add.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop the chicken bites back into the air fryer or oven for a few minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this may make the coating soggy.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Bites are a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold flavors and crispy textures. With their golden coating, addictive sweet and spicy sauce, and versatility, they’re bound to become a favorite in any household. Whether you’re whipping them up as a party appetizer, a quick dinner, or a fun snack, these bites deliver satisfaction every single time.