Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe

The Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor, texture, and a perfect balance of spice. Inspired by the popular Bang Bang shrimp, this sandwich features crispy chicken breasts coated in a mouthwatering, spicy mayo-based sauce. Topped with crunchy veggies, it’s a fantastic combination of crispy, creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or as a meal prep option for the week, this sandwich is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for spice level)
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon rice vinegar

For Assembling the Sandwich:

4 burger buns (preferably brioche)
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 tomato, sliced
Pickles (optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich ?

Step 1: Start by preparing the chicken. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.

Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Allow the chicken to marinate in the buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and flavor the meat.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk and coat each breast first in the flour mixture, then dip it back into the buttermilk, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs for a crispy outer layer.

Step 5: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken breasts for about 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 6: While the chicken is frying, mix all the ingredients for the Bang Bang sauce in a bowl mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir until smooth and well-combined.

Step 7: Toast the burger buns lightly on a skillet until golden brown.

Step 8: Once the chicken is done, generously coat each piece in the Bang Bang sauce.

Step 9: Assemble the sandwich: Place the lettuce on the bottom half of each bun, followed by a slice of tomato. Add the saucy Bang Bang chicken, and top with pickles and cilantro if desired. Place the top bun on, and serve!

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Use crispy cauliflower or a vegetarian chicken substitute for a plant-based alternative.
Heat Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to your preferred spice level. For a milder version, reduce or omit the sriracha.
Add Avocado: For a creamy twist, add fresh slices of avocado to your sandwich.
Asian-Inspired: Top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Notes

Frying Tips: Be sure to maintain a steady oil temperature (around 350°F/175°C) to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and crisps up without getting soggy.
Alternative Cooking Methods: If you prefer to avoid frying, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for crispy results.
Sauce Storage: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

This Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich pairs wonderfully with:

Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries
A side of coleslaw for extra crunch
Fresh cucumber or a light Asian-inspired salad with sesame dressing

For a lighter meal, serve the sandwich without the bun and add extra veggies for a low-carb option.

Helpful Tips

Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken and breading in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.
Crispiness: Ensure the panko breadcrumbs are evenly distributed and lightly pressed into the chicken to get an extra crispy coating.
Rest the Chicken: After frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before assembling the sandwich to retain its juiciness.

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FAQs About Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and provide more moisture, but they may take slightly longer to cook.

Can I make the sauce spicier?

Absolutely! Add more sriracha or use a hotter chili sauce to turn up the heat.

How do I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free flour blend for the breading, and ensure the buns are gluten-free.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

The Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is a quick, flavorful, and crispy meal that will become a new favorite in your kitchen. With a spicy, tangy sauce and tender, crunchy chicken, this sandwich is a perfect balance of bold and comforting flavors. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just want a satisfying meal for the family, this recipe delivers on taste and ease. Enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich today!