Bang Bang Chicken Pasta Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is an irresistible fusion dish that combines the bold flavors of creamy, spicy sauce with tender chicken and pasta. This recipe is inspired by the popular Bang Bang Chicken, typically served as an appetizer, but we’ve transformed it into a filling and satisfying main course. With a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and creaminess, this pasta dish is sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or even special occasions when you want something a little more exciting than regular pasta.

This recipe blends the creamy texture of a homemade bang bang sauce with chicken and pasta for a unique, flavorful meal. It’s a perfect combination of heat, tanginess, and creaminess, all in one bite. The best part? It’s customizable to suit your spice preferences and dietary needs, making it an ideal dish for anyone looking to spice up their weeknight dinner routine.

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
12 oz pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or penne works well)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust based on desired spice level)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp honey (optional, for added sweetness)
2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Pasta ?

Step 1:
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Make sure to reserve about a cup of pasta water for later, as it will help thin the sauce and bind it to the pasta.

Step 2:
Season your chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until golden and fully cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, and honey (if using). Stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the heat level by adding more sriracha if you want extra spice.

Step 4:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy, spicy sauce. Add the cooked chicken back to the pan and toss again, ensuring the chicken is coated with the sauce.

Step 5:
If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Once the pasta and chicken are well combined, serve immediately, garnishing with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Variations:

Vegetarian Bang Bang Pasta: Use tofu or tempeh in place of the chicken for a plant-based option.
Spicy Variation: Increase the sriracha or add red pepper flakes for more heat.
Nut-Free: If you have nut allergies, you can omit the sesame seeds for garnish.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Cooking Note: This dish is quite versatile, so feel free to adjust the level of spiciness according to your preference. The creamy sauce is rich, so it pairs perfectly with lighter pasta varieties such as spaghetti, linguine, or even rice noodles for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions: Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Pasta with a side of garlic bread and a simple salad. The richness of the pasta is balanced well by the freshness of a light, leafy salad dressed in vinaigrette. Alternatively, serve it with steamed vegetables such as broccoli or bell peppers to add some crunch and freshness to the meal.

Helpful Tips:

Sauce Consistency: If your sauce turns out too thick, always keep a little bit of the pasta cooking water to thin it out. This ensures the sauce sticks to the pasta without being too heavy.
Customize the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less sriracha and gradually add more to the sauce. You can also balance the heat with a little extra honey or sugar.
Make-Ahead Tip: The bang bang sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can cook the chicken and pasta when you’re ready to serve the dish.

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FAQs About Bang Bang Chicken Pasta Recipe

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like! Penne, spaghetti, or linguine all work well with the sauce.

Q: How do I make this dish spicier?

A: To increase the heat, add more sriracha or incorporate chili flakes into the sauce. You can also use a hotter sweet chili sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: While the pasta is best served fresh, you can make the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve and reheat if necessary.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?

A: To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is the perfect combination of bold flavors and creamy goodness, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something spicy or want to impress your family or friends with a flavorful dinner, this recipe delivers. It’s customizable, easy to prepare, and utterly delicious. Serve it up with your favorite side dishes, and you have a complete meal that everyone will love.

This recipe is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation, adding some much-needed excitement to your pasta nights. Enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness of Bang Bang Chicken Pasta today!