Bang Bang Chicken Bites
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s perfect for game day, dinner parties, or just a cozy night in, look no further than these Bang Bang Chicken Bites. Juicy chicken bites are coated in a crispy, flavorful exterior and tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!). They’re easy to make, and the combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your regular cooking rotation.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
First off, Bang Bang Chicken Bites are incredibly versatile. They can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even as a topping on salads or grain bowls. The blend of spices and sauces creates a flavor explosion that will impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Once you try them, you’ll find yourself craving these tender, spicy morsels again and again.
Ingredient List
To make these mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken Bites, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons sriracha
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (for the sauce)
Essential Tools for Success
Having the right tools can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
- Spatula or tongs: To flip the chicken bites while cooking.
- Paper towels: For draining excess oil from the chicken.
Bang Bang Chicken Bites: How It’s Done
Making Bang Bang Chicken Bites is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to create your own batch of flavor-packed bites:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sriracha. Mix well to ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and additional sriracha. Adjust the amount of sriracha according to your spice preference. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. In a large bowl, toss the chicken bites with the prepared sauce until they are well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or sesame seeds if desired.
How to Make It Lighter
If you’re looking to lighten up your Bang Bang Chicken Bites, consider these tips:
- Use skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add protein.
- Opt for a baking method instead of frying. Bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Reduce the amount of sweet chili sauce in the recipe to decrease sugar content.
Insider Tips
To elevate your Bang Bang Chicken Bites experience, keep these tips in mind:
- For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken pieces in the cornstarch before frying.
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Experiment with other spices, such as paprika or cayenne, for an added kick.
- Pair with fresh veggies like cucumber or carrots for a refreshing contrast to the spicy sauce.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
If you happen to have leftovers (though we doubt it!), here’s how to store and reheat your Bang Bang Chicken Bites:
Allow the chicken bites to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help maintain their crispiness.
Troubleshooting Q&A
Why are my chicken bites not crispy?
If your chicken bites are not crispy, ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. Cooking in batches can also help maintain the oil temperature.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to fully thaw it and pat it dry before marinating.
What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce?
If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, you can mix equal parts honey and soy sauce with a bit of vinegar for a similar flavor profile.
Are there any alternatives to sriracha?
Yes! You can substitute sriracha with other hot sauces like sambal oelek or gochujang, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and steps to create your own Bang Bang Chicken Bites, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, rally your kitchen tools, and prepare to impress your friends and family with this delectable dish. With its crispy exterior and creamy, spicy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
This easy-to-make dish is not only full of flavor but also a fun way to spice up your appetizers. Whether you serve them at a party, as a game day snack, or as a weeknight dinner, these Bang Bang Chicken Bites are a guaranteed hit. Enjoy!
Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with sesame oil, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sriracha. Mix well to ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and additional sriracha. Adjust the amount of sriracha according to your spice preference. Set aside.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. In a large bowl, toss the chicken bites with the prepared sauce until they are well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken pieces in the cornstarch before frying.
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Experiment with other spices, such as paprika or cayenne, for an added kick.
