Crispy, golden, and packed with a fiery punch, these Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The tender, juicy chicken is encased in a perfectly crunchy coating, then tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they deliver bold flavors with every bite.
The balance of heat from Sriracha, the subtle tang from rice vinegar, and the richness of the creamy sauce make these nuggets stand out. Serve them up at a party, for game night, or as an easy weeknight dinner. Garnished with fresh green onions and an extra drizzle of sauce, they look just as good as they taste.
Full Recipe:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs and breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour + 1/2 tsp baking soda)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying
- 2 green onions, sliced
Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon Sichuan pepper
Directions:
- Cut chicken into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces. Add to a food processor with breadcrumbs, salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, garlic powder, and vegetable oil. Pulse until finely ground but not smooth.
- Scoop 2-tablespoon portions onto a sheet pan, making about 24 nuggets. Cover and chill for 30 minutes.
- In a bag, combine flour and cornstarch. Shake to mix well.
- With damp hands, shape the chicken mixture into balls or flat nugget shapes. Toss in the flour mixture, shake off excess, and place back on the sheet pan.
- Chill for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight if prepping ahead.
- While chilling, whisk together all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Deep fry nuggets until golden brown and cooked through (about 4 minutes) or shallow fry in a skillet for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a mixing bowl, add half the sliced green onions, and toss with 1/2 cup of sauce.
- Serve on a platter, drizzle with extra Sriracha, and garnish with remaining green onions. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 45 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4
Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets: A Crispy, Spicy Delight
Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets are the perfect combination of crunch, spice, and flavor. Inspired by the famous Bang Bang sauce, these nuggets bring together crispy fried chicken with a creamy, sweet, and spicy coating. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish, they are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.
The Origins of Bang Bang Chicken
The term “Bang Bang” originates from a traditional Chinese street food called “Bang Bang Chicken” (棒棒鸡). The name comes from the method of tenderizing the chicken by pounding it with a wooden stick. Traditionally, this dish consists of shredded chicken tossed in a spicy sesame sauce. Over time, Western adaptations of Bang Bang sauce have emerged, featuring a creamy, tangy, and spicy blend that has gained immense popularity in modern cuisine.
What Makes Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets Special?
Unlike regular chicken nuggets, these crispy delights are coated in a homemade breadcrumb mixture for extra crunch and depth of flavor. The star of the show, however, is the Bang Bang sauce. A unique combination of mayonnaise, honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar creates the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and fiery heat.
These nuggets are easy to prepare and can be deep-fried for maximum crunch or pan-fried for a slightly lighter version. The coating adheres beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with texture and bold flavor. The finishing touch of fresh green onions and an extra drizzle of sauce takes these nuggets to the next level.
The Secret to the Perfect Crunch
Achieving the perfect crunch requires a combination of ingredients and techniques. The nuggets start with a base of breadcrumbs, which provide structure and crispiness. The addition of cornstarch and self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour with baking soda) enhances the texture, giving the nuggets a light yet crispy finish.
Chilling the shaped nuggets before frying is an essential step. This helps the coating adhere properly and prevents the nuggets from falling apart during the cooking process. Using the right oil temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) ensures an even golden brown crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
The Signature Bang Bang Sauce
The Bang Bang sauce is what sets these nuggets apart from any other fried chicken recipe. It combines:
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps balance the heat.
- Honey: Contributes a touch of sweetness to counteract the spice.
- Sriracha: Provides a bold kick of heat.
- Soy Sauce: Adds umami depth.
- Sesame Oil: Enhances the overall flavor with its nutty aroma.
- Rice Vinegar: Offers a subtle tangy contrast.
- Sichuan Pepper: Introduces a slightly numbing, tingling sensation.
The sauce not only coats the nuggets beautifully but also serves as an excellent dipping option for those who want an extra burst of flavor.
Why This Recipe Works for Any Occasion
One of the best things about Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets is their versatility. They are perfect for game nights, family dinners, casual gatherings, or even as a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of crispiness and spicy-sweet sauce makes them an instant favorite among both kids and adults.
If you’re hosting a party, these nuggets can be served alongside other appetizers like crispy fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad. They also pair wonderfully with coleslaw or a side of rice to make a complete meal.
Healthier Alternatives and Cooking Methods
While deep-frying delivers the ultimate crunch, there are alternative cooking methods for those who prefer a lighter version:
- Pan-frying: Using less oil while still achieving a crispy texture.
- Baking: Placing the nuggets on a wire rack over a baking sheet and baking at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown.
- Air frying: Cooking at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, for a crispy yet healthier option.
These variations ensure that everyone can enjoy Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets, regardless of dietary preferences.
Customizing the Recipe to Suit Your Taste
This recipe is easily adaptable to different preferences:
- Make it spicier: Add more Sriracha or a dash of hot sauce to the Bang Bang sauce.
- Lower the heat: Reduce the Sriracha or replace it with mild chili sauce.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a flour substitute like almond or rice flour.
- Dairy-free version: Swap out mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative like vegan mayo or Greek yogurt.
- Extra crunch: Double-coat the nuggets for a thicker, crispier exterior.
These modifications allow for a more personalized dish that suits different dietary needs and spice tolerances.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
To elevate the dish, consider serving Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets with creative garnishes and plating techniques:
- Drizzle extra Bang Bang sauce over the nuggets for added flavor.
- Top with sesame seeds and fresh green onions for a restaurant-style presentation.
- Pair with a cooling dip like ranch, blue cheese, or a yogurt-based sauce.
- Serve in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb, fresh alternative.
- Create a Bang Bang Chicken Nugget bowl by adding rice, avocado slices, and fresh veggies.
These presentation ideas make the dish visually appealing and enhance the overall dining experience.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe for Every Food Lover
Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets are a fantastic fusion of crispy, juicy chicken with a bold and flavorful sauce. Their addictive crunch and perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors make them a standout dish for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious appetizer, a fun family meal, or a dish to impress guests, these nuggets are a must-try. The combination of texture, heat, and creaminess is simply irresistible. Plus, with various cooking methods and customizations, they can be tailored to suit different dietary needs and preferences.