Bang Bang Chicken: The Ultimate Guide to This Spicy Sichuan Dish

Bang bang chicken, a symphony of flavors and textures, is about to become your new favorite weeknight meal! Imagine succulent, shredded chicken coated in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce, all served over a bed of crisp lettuce or fluffy rice. Are you drooling yet? I know I am just thinking about it!

While the exact origins of bang bang chicken are debated, many believe it hails from the Sichuan province of China. The name itself is thought to refer to the “bang bang” sound made by the cleaver used to tenderize the chicken. Regardless of its precise history, this dish has exploded in popularity worldwide, and for good reason.

What makes bang bang chicken so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy. The creamy sauce, often made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, is incredibly addictive. The tender chicken provides a satisfying protein, and the contrasting textures – the crisp lettuce or fluffy rice against the saucy chicken – create a delightful culinary experience. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you crave something flavorful and exciting without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion with this incredible recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for cooking
• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger, grated
• For the Slaw:
• 4 cups shredded cabbage (green and/or red)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For Garnish (optional):
• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions
• Crushed peanuts

Preparing the Chicken:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, grated ginger, garlic powder, and white pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. This marinade helps tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor. I like to let it sit for at least 20 minutes, or even up to an hour in the refrigerator, for the best results. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes!
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add half of the marinated chicken to the skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.
3. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the skillet. Add the remaining chicken and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Make sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside with the first batch of chicken.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your liking, depending on how spicy you want the sauce to be. I usually start with 2 tablespoons and then add more if I want a bigger kick.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt or a little more honey for sweetness. The key is to balance the flavors – sweet, spicy, tangy, and savory.

Preparing the Slaw:

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro. This colorful mix forms the base of our refreshing slaw.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and salt. This is the dressing for the slaw.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to combine. Make sure the dressing is evenly distributed so that every bite is flavorful. I like to let the slaw sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving, as this allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften slightly.

Assembling the Bang Bang Chicken:

1. Place the cooked chicken in a large bowl. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and toss well to coat. Make sure every piece of chicken is generously covered in the creamy, spicy sauce.
2. To serve, you can either plate the Bang Bang chicken over a bed of the prepared slaw, or you can serve the slaw on the side. I personally prefer to put the chicken on top of the slaw, as the coolness of the slaw complements the spiciness of the chicken perfectly.
3. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and crushed peanuts, if desired. These garnishes add a nice visual appeal and a bit of extra flavor and texture. The sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor, the green onions add a fresh, oniony bite, and the crushed peanuts offer a satisfying crunch.

Serving Suggestions:

• Bang Bang Chicken Bowls: Serve the Bang Bang chicken and slaw over rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also add other toppings like avocado, cucumber, or pickled onions.
• Bang Bang Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps and fill them with the Bang Bang chicken and slaw. This is a lighter and healthier option.
• Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches: Use toasted buns or bread and fill them with the Bang Bang chicken and slaw. Add a slice of cheese for extra flavor.
• Bang Bang Chicken Salad: Toss the Bang Bang chicken and slaw with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.

Tips and Variations:

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount of sriracha and add more to taste. You can also use a milder chili sauce instead of sriracha.
• Use Different Proteins: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the slaw, such as bell peppers, radishes, or edamame.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and tamari to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the chicken, sauce, and slaw ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the chicken with the sauce and assemble the dish.

Storing Leftovers:

• Store leftover Bang Bang chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The slaw may become a bit soggy over time, but it will still be delicious.
• Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can dry it out.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 450-550
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g

Enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Chicken! I hope you find this recipe easy to follow and that you love the delicious flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and adjust the recipe to your own taste preferences. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Bang Bang Chicken recipe is truly a must-try, and I’m confident it will become a regular in your meal rotation. The combination of crispy, juicy chicken and that creamy, slightly spicy, undeniably addictive Bang Bang sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Forget takeout; this homemade version is fresher, healthier, and, dare I say, even more delicious!

But what makes this recipe so special? It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy coating on the chicken provides a satisfying crunch, while the tender chicken inside melts in your mouth. The Bang Bang sauce, with its creamy base, sweet notes, and a subtle kick of spice, ties everything together beautifully. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting, familiar yet unique. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even on a busy weeknight.

Beyond its incredible taste, this Bang Bang Chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice for a classic and satisfying meal. For a lighter option, try it with quinoa or brown rice. You can also toss it with your favorite noodles, like udon or soba, for a delicious Asian-inspired dish.

Looking for some serving suggestions? A side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds a healthy dose of vegetables. A simple cucumber salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken. And for a truly indulgent experience, serve it with some crispy wonton strips for extra crunch.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with variations to make this recipe your own. If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute shrimp or tofu. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the Bang Bang sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a touch more honey or maple syrup. You can even add a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of citrusy flavor.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize this recipe to your liking. The possibilities are endless!

I truly believe that this Bang Bang Chicken recipe is a winner. It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and endlessly versatile. It’s the perfect dish for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or any occasion that calls for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And when you do, please share your experience with me! I’d love to hear your thoughts, your variations, and your serving suggestions. Tag me in your photos on social media, or leave a comment below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! I am sure you will love this Bang Bang Chicken as much as I do.