Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken: Crispy, Spicy, and Delicious Recipe

Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken: Craving that explosive flavor and satisfying crunch of Bang Bang Chicken, but without the guilt of deep-frying? You’ve come to the right place! I’m about to share a game-changing recipe that delivers all the deliciousness you crave, cooked to crispy perfection in your air fryer.

Bang Bang Chicken, with its origins in the Sichuan province of China, is a dish known for its bold and addictive sauce. The name itself suggests the “bang” of flavors that hit your palate – a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that dance together in perfect harmony. While traditionally deep-fried, this air fryer version offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing any of the incredible taste or satisfying texture.

What makes Bang Bang Chicken so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of crispy, juicy chicken coated in that signature creamy, tangy sauce. People adore it for its complex flavor profile, the satisfying crunch, and the sheer convenience of being able to whip it up relatively quickly. This Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken recipe takes that convenience to the next level, making it a weeknight winner. Get ready to experience the magic of Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken – your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Cooking spray
• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• For Garnish (optional):
• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken Cubes: First, make sure your chicken breasts are cut into uniform 1-inch cubes. This helps them cook evenly in the air fryer. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step! Removing excess moisture will help the coating stick better and result in crispier chicken.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. This mixture will create a flavorful and crispy coating for the chicken. Make sure everything is well combined.
3. Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk. This will help the dry ingredients adhere to the chicken.
4. Coat the Chicken: Now, it’s time to coat the chicken. Take a few chicken cubes at a time and dip them into the egg wash, making sure they are fully coated. Then, transfer the chicken to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Toss to coat thoroughly, ensuring each piece is evenly covered. You can use your hands or a fork to do this. I find using my hands is the most efficient way to get a good coating.
5. Repeat the Coating (Optional): For an extra crispy coating, you can repeat the dipping process. Dip the coated chicken back into the egg wash and then back into the dry ingredients. This will create a thicker, crunchier crust. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it if you want that extra crunch!

Air Frying the Chicken:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets nice and crispy.
2. Arrange Chicken in the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will prevent the chicken from crisping up properly. You may need to cook the chicken in batches.
3. Cook the Chicken: Air fry the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
4. Check for Doneness: After 10 minutes, check the chicken for doneness. If it’s not quite golden brown and crispy, continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
5. Remove and Set Aside: Once the chicken is cooked through and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and set it aside while you prepare the Bang Bang sauce.

Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce:

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the ingredients to your liking. If you want it spicier, add more sriracha. If you want it sweeter, add more honey or maple syrup. If you want it tangier, add more rice vinegar.
3. Whisk Until Smooth: Whisk all the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Assembling the Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken:

1. Toss Chicken with Sauce: Place the cooked chicken in a large bowl. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Make sure every piece of chicken is generously coated with the delicious sauce.
2. Garnish (Optional): Transfer the Bang Bang chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. These garnishes add a pop of color and flavor.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken immediately. It’s best enjoyed while it’s still warm and crispy.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha to control the spice level of the sauce. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Sweetness: You can use honey, maple syrup, or even a little bit of sugar to sweeten the sauce. Adjust the amount to your preference.
• Chicken Thighs: You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and stay more moist during cooking.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian option, you can use tofu or cauliflower florets instead of chicken. Just make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before coating it.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken over rice, noodles, or a bed of lettuce. It’s also great as an appetizer or snack.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. The chicken can also be coated ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few hours before air frying.
• Crispier Chicken: For even crispier chicken, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of flour and cornstarch. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and create a more textured coating.
• Double Coating: As mentioned earlier, double coating the chicken in the egg wash and dry ingredients will result in a thicker, crispier crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Overcrowding the air fryer basket will prevent the chicken from crisping up properly. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Shake the Basket: Shaking the air fryer basket halfway through cooking helps to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy on all sides.

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigerating: Store leftover Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, you can use the air fryer, oven, or microwave. For the best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Microwaving is the quickest option, but the chicken may not be as crispy.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g

Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken!

Conclusion:

This Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! I truly believe you’ll be hooked from the very first bite. The crispy, perfectly cooked chicken, combined with that creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet Bang Bang sauce, is an irresistible combination that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – what more could you ask for?

But beyond the sheer deliciousness, this recipe is a must-try because it offers a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried Bang Bang Chicken. The air fryer allows you to achieve that same incredible crispiness without all the extra oil, making it a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy more often. Plus, clean-up is a breeze! No more dealing with messy oil splatters or complicated frying techniques.

Think of this recipe as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. While I’ve provided a solid foundation, feel free to experiment and make it your own. For a lighter meal, serve the Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken over a bed of crisp lettuce with shredded carrots and cucumbers for a refreshing salad. Alternatively, you can create delicious Bang Bang Chicken tacos by stuffing warm tortillas with the chicken, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of extra sauce.

If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, try serving it over steamed rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up all that delicious sauce, creating a truly satisfying and flavorful experience. You could also pair it with roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini for a complete and balanced meal.

And don’t be afraid to adjust the spice level to your liking! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce. For those who like it hot, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also experiment with different types of chili garlic sauce to find your perfect level of heat.

Another variation you might enjoy is using different cuts of chicken. While I’ve used chicken breasts in this recipe, you could also use chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful experience. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You could even try using shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option! The possibilities are endless.

I’m confident that this Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get cooking!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken for yourself. Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking!