After a long day of work, I often find myself yearning for something that truly satisfies my cravings—something that doesn’t come from a drive-thru window. That’s how I discovered this delightful Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich, inspired by the vibrant flavors of street food. Imagine tender, marinated chicken, fried until it’s gloriously crunchy, sandwiched between soft brioche buns and slathered with a sweet and spicy mayo that has just the right kick.
As soon as you take that first bite, the joyful contrast of textures makes you realize you’ve stepped into a culinary embrace. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you still want something exciting to eat. Whether you’re an avid home cook or someone simply bored with fast food, you’re going to want to keep this recipe close at hand. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this delicious take on Bang Bang Chicken!
Why is the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The majestic combination of sweet and spicy mayo elevates this sandwich to new heights. Each bite bursts with flavor that dances on your palate.
Crispy Perfection: The fried chicken is expertly breaded with panko, giving it a crunch you won’t forget.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together faster than a trip to the nearest fast food joint.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize it—try tofu for a vegetarian twist or swap in your favorite sauces!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether feeding a family or hosting friends, this sandwich guarantees smiles and empty plates.
For those who crave something unique, it’s an excellent choice for stepping out of the ordinary. Don’t forget to serve it alongside a fresh salad or sweet potato fries for the ultimate meal!
Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Boneless Chicken Breasts – They provide the main protein; ensure they’re even in thickness for uniform cooking.
- Buttermilk – Enhances moisture and flavor; regular milk mixed with vinegar can be a substitute.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms a crisp coating; you can use gluten-free flour for dietary needs.
For the Breading
- Eggs – Essential for helping the breading adhere to the chicken; this recipe doesn’t have a substitute.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Gives that extra crunch; feel free to use crushed cornflakes if you want a different texture.
For the Sauce
- Sriracha – Adds a lovely kick; adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
- Mayonnaise – Mixes beautifully with sriracha to create the sweet and spicy mayo that defines this Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich.
For Assembly
- Brioche Buns – Soft and slightly sweet, they perfectly cradle the crispy chicken; whole wheat or gluten-free buns work, too!
- Pickles – Optional but highly recommended for that punch of acidity and crunch.
This ingredient list ensures you’re well-equipped to bring this delightful sandwich to the table! Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
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Prepare the Marinade: In a large dish, whisk together the marinade ingredients. Add the boneless chicken breasts, cover, and let them soak in the fridge for about 4 hours, or ideally overnight, for maximum flavor.
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Set Up Dredging Station: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any drips. Set up three bowls: one with flour, another with a beaten egg mixture, and the last filled with panko breadcrumbs.
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Bread the Chicken: Take each piece of marinated chicken and dredge it first in the flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it evenly with panko. Let the breaded chicken sit for about 10 minutes to ensure a crispy crust when frying.
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Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken in the skillet, frying for 8-12 minutes. Turn occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous amount of sweet and spicy mayo on each brioche bun. Layer in the crispy fried chicken and add pickles on top for an extra crunch.
Optional: Serve with a side of sweet potato fries for a delicious meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich?
To elevate your meal with complementary sides and flavors, explore these delightful pairings that perfectly balance the sandwich’s crunch and spice.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the spicy chicken, creating a harmonious and satisfying bite.
- Crispy Coleslaw: Fresh, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the fried chicken, making each bite exciting.
- Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn, brushed with garlic butter, provides a sweet and savory contrast, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Tangy Cucumber Salad: A zesty cucumber salad refreshes your palate, cutting through the spice with its crisp texture and light dressing.
- Brewed Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, complements the dish’s spicy notes while quenching your thirst.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm, homemade cookies—the perfect bites to complement the savory sandwich flavors.
- Apple Pie: This classic dessert provides a comforting, warm sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the spicy, savory elements of the sandwich.
- Lemonade: Cool and citrusy lemonade refreshes your palate, making it an ideal drink companion to the rich and crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
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Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich fresh. However, if you have leftovers, they can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before needing to be refrigerated.
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Fridge: Store assembled sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken separately to maintain its crispy texture before reassembling.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the breaded but unfried chicken separately, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, fry straight from frozen for the best crunch!
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Reheating: Reheat leftover sandwiches in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes. This preserves the sandwich’s original crispiness, keeping your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich delightful!
Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize your experience with this vibrant sandwich to create flavors that excite your taste buds!
- Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for extra-firm tofu, marinating and breading it the same way for a delightful meat-free option.
- Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños directly into your sandwich for an extra kick that will make your taste buds tingle with excitement.
- Crispy Avocado: Replace the chicken with avocado slices, breading and frying until crispy for a creamy, crunch-filled sandwich.
- Asian-Inspired: Use hoisin sauce mixed with the mayo to infuse an exciting umami flavor that’s sure to elevate this sandwich into a bold new territory.
- Coleslaw Crunch: Top your finished sandwich with a generous scoop of coleslaw for a fresh, crunchy contrast that adds texture and flavor layers.
- Garlic Aioli Option: Create a creamy garlic aioli instead of the sweet and spicy mayo, bringing a rich, aromatic flavor that works wonders with the chicken.
- Herb-Infused Buns: Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped basil or cilantro on your brioche buns for an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Heat Level Control: Reduce or increase the sriracha in your mayo based on your family’s heat preference, ensuring everyone finds joy in their sandwich experience.
With these variations, your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich will never be boring; you have the freedom to reinvent and delight!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which not only saves time but also infuses it with incredible flavor. Prepare the breading station and coat the chicken in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the coating crispy, fry the chicken just before assembly, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness. When it’s time to serve, simply fry the prepped chicken and then assemble your sandwiches with the sweet and spicy mayo and pickles for a lunch or dinner that’s just as delicious as if it were made fresh!
Expert Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
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Marinate Wisely: Ensure the chicken soaks for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better—for deep flavor infusion.
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Room Temperature: Allow the marinated chicken to come to room temperature before frying to achieve even cooking and a perfect crunch.
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Frying Space: Avoid overcrowding the skillet; give each piece some space to maintain the oil temperature, ensuring crispy results for your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich.
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Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm your chicken has reached 165°F. This prevents undercooking while giving you confidence in your meal!
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Customize Your Sauce: Adjust the sriracha in the sweet and spicy mayo to match your family’s spice tolerance; everyone can enjoy this sandwich!
Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select chicken for the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich?
When choosing chicken, look for boneless, skinless breasts that are evenly thick. This ensures an even cook and a juicy sandwich. Opt for fresh pieces, and avoid any that have dark spots or an unusual smell.
How long can I store my leftover Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich in the fridge?
You can store assembled sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep the fried chicken separate to maintain crispiness. Just reheat the chicken and reassemble for that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the breaded but unfried chicken in a tightly wrapped plastic wrap, then foil, ensuring no air gets in. This way, it can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, fry the chicken straight from frozen for the best crunchy texture.
What should I do if my fried chicken turns out soggy?
If your fried chicken is soggy, it generally means it was either overcooked or not drained properly after frying. To ensure crispness, let the fried chicken rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels, allowing excess oil to drip off. Moreover, be sure not to overcrowd the skillet while frying; this will help maintain the oil temperature.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If your guests have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version. Additionally, for gluten-free options, use gluten-free flour and buns. Always double-check the ingredients of your sauces, especially the mayonnaise and sriracha, to confirm they’re safe for those with allergies.
How do I ensure my chicken is cooked thoroughly?
Using a meat thermometer is key! Make sure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe and juicy. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken for an accurate reading. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest piece to check that the meat is no longer pink inside.
Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich That Will Wow Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large dish, whisk together the marinade ingredients. Add the boneless chicken breasts, cover, and let them soak in the fridge for about 4 hours, or ideally overnight, for maximum flavor.
- Set Up Dredging Station: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to catch any drips. Set up three bowls: one with flour, another with a beaten egg mixture, and the last filled with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Take each piece of marinated chicken and dredge it first in the flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it evenly with panko. Let the breaded chicken sit for about 10 minutes to ensure a crispy crust when frying.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken in the skillet, frying for 8-12 minutes. Turn occasionally until golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread a generous amount of sweet and spicy mayo on each brioche bun. Layer in the crispy fried chicken and add pickles on top.