Bang Bang Chicken Air Fryer: A Crispy and Flavorful Recipe You’ll Love

Bang Bang Chicken Air Fryer is a delightful dish that has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason! This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. Originating from Asian cuisine, Bang Bang Chicken has become a favorite in many households, thanks to its bold flavors and satisfying crunch. The air fryer method not only makes it healthier by reducing the amount of oil used but also ensures that the chicken remains crispy on the outside while being succulent on the inside.

People love this dish for its incredible taste and texture, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The convenience of the air fryer means you can whip up this delicious meal in no time, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality experience right at home. Join me as we explore the steps to create this mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken Air Fryer recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Chopped green onions for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and make them easier to eat. I usually aim for about 1-inch cubes. 2. In a large bowl, pour in the buttermilk. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight will enhance the flavor and tenderness.

Preparing the Coating

3. While the chicken is marinating, let’s prepare the coating. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix these dry ingredients well until they are evenly combined. 4. After the chicken has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator. Take each piece of chicken out of the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dredge the chicken pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. I like to press the flour onto the chicken to create a thicker crust. 5. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate or a baking sheet. Once all the chicken is coated, let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the coating adhere better during cooking.

Cooking the Chicken in the Air Fryer

6. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating is essential for achieving that crispy texture we all love. 7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. 8. Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. To ensure they are fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) using a meat thermometer. 9. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce

10. While the chicken is cooking, let’s whip up the Bang Bang sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the sriracha according to your heat preference. I usually like it with a little kick!

Assembling the Dish

11. Now that everything is ready, it’s time to assemble! In a large serving bowl, add the crispy chicken pieces. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken, tossing gently to coat all the pieces evenly. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping if you prefer. 12. For a beautiful presentation, garnish the dish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like. This adds a nice crunch and a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

13. Bang Bang Chicken is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. I love pairing it with steamed broccoli or a crunchy slaw to balance the richness of the sauce. 14. If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.

Tips for Success

15. If you want to make this dish healthier,

Conclusion:

In summary, the Bang Bang Chicken Air Fryer recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a burst of flavor and a touch of crunch. The combination of tender chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer, makes this dish not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. For serving suggestions, I love pairing this dish with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness of the sauce. You can also serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some sliced avocado or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture. I encourage you to give this Bang Bang Chicken Air Fryer recipe a try and experience the delightful explosion of flavors for yourself. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience with friends and family, and let them know how easy and satisfying it is to whip up this dish in your air fryer. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!

Print