Description
Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken features tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful spice blend, served with a creamy and spicy Bang Bang sauce. It’s a quick and delicious option for weeknight dinners or as a fun appetizer, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes). In a large bowl, pour in the buttermilk and add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for better flavor).
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well until evenly combined.
- After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Allow excess buttermilk to drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to create a thicker crust. Place the coated chicken on a plate or baking sheet and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken cooks, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting sriracha to taste.
- In a large serving bowl, add the crispy chicken pieces and drizzle with Bang Bang sauce, tossing gently to coat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve the Bang Bang Chicken on its own, over rice, or alongside a fresh salad. Pair with steamed broccoli or crunchy slaw for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Notes
- For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour or almond flour for the coating.
- Adjust the level of spiciness in the Bang Bang sauce by varying the amount of sriracha.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes