Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe

Introduction

The Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is a mouthwatering, crispy fried chicken sandwich drizzled with a creamy, spicy sauce that will leave you craving more. This sandwich combines the perfect balance of crunch from the chicken, creaminess from the sauce, and a hint of heat that makes every bite irresistibly delicious. The Bang Bang sauce, made with mayonnaise, Sriracha, and honey, adds a tangy and spicy kick to the tender chicken fillet, creating a flavor explosion with each bite.

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a casual get-together, this Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is a surefire way to impress friends and family. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just love a good crispy sandwich, this recipe will not disappoint. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich, provide tips for success, and explore variations you can try to customize the sandwich to your taste.

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich

• Crispy, Juicy Chicken: The chicken fillets are coated in a seasoned batter and fried to golden perfection, ensuring every bite is crunchy and juicy.
• Spicy and Creamy Sauce: The signature Bang Bang sauce, made with a combination of mayonnaise, Sriracha, and honey, delivers a creamy texture with a spicy, tangy kick that perfectly complements the crispy chicken.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is easy to prepare, even for novice cooks. The sandwich is ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Customizable: You can adjust the heat level of the Bang Bang sauce by adding more or less Sriracha or honey. Additionally, the sandwich can be customized with toppings like pickles, lettuce, or tomatoes to suit your preferences.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This sandwich is the epitome of comfort food, with crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and soft, pillowy buns that create the perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4 sandwiches
• Calories per Serving: Around 550-600 calories per sandwich, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 550-600 kcal
• Fat: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 2-4g
• Sugar: 12-14g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Fillets:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more juiciness)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional, for added tang)
• Pinch of salt (optional)

For Assembling the Sandwiches:

• 4 sandwich buns (brioche, potato rolls, or your choice of buns)
• Shredded lettuce
• Sliced tomatoes (optional)
• Pickles (optional)

Special Equipment

While making Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches doesn’t require specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment will help ensure smooth preparation and better results:

1. Cast-Iron Skillet or Deep Fryer: A cast-iron skillet or deep fryer is perfect for frying the chicken fillets to crispy perfection. It ensures even heat distribution and helps the chicken develop a golden, crispy crust.
2. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accuracy, use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the correct proportions of ingredients for the batter and sauce.
3. Whisk: A whisk is essential for mixing the Bang Bang sauce and ensuring the ingredients are well-combined and smooth.
4. Tongs or Slotted Spoon: To safely handle the chicken while frying, a pair of tongs or a slotted spoon is helpful. It allows you to flip the chicken without splattering hot oil.
5. Paper Towels: After frying the chicken, place it on paper towels to drain excess oil, keeping the chicken crispy and not greasy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by tenderizing the chicken breasts to an even thickness. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs, which tend to stay juicier after frying.

In a medium bowl, pour the buttermilk. Add the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the buttermilk, and whisk until combined. Place the chicken breasts in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring that the chicken is fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to marinate and tenderize the chicken.

2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar (if using). Stir well until the sauce is smooth and well-mixed. Taste the sauce and adjust the heat by adding more Sriracha for spiciness or more honey for sweetness. Add a pinch of salt if desired to enhance the flavor. Set the sauce aside.

3. Prepare the Breading

In a separate shallow dish, mix together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. This dry mixture will form the crispy coating for the chicken.

4. Fry the Chicken

Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat. You can check the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of the breading mixture into the oil—if it bubbles and sizzles, the oil is ready.

While the oil heats up, remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and dredge each piece in the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coat. Carefully lower the chicken into the hot oil, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

5. Toast the Buns

While the chicken is frying, toast the sandwich buns lightly in a dry skillet or in the oven. This step adds a slight crunch and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy once assembled.

6. Assemble the Sandwiches

To assemble the sandwiches, spread a generous amount of the Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a crispy chicken fillet on top of the sauce. Add a layer of shredded lettuce, and top with sliced tomatoes and pickles if desired. Add more Bang Bang sauce on top of the chicken if you prefer extra flavor and spice.

Place the top half of the bun on the sandwich, and your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is ready to serve!

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches

• Use Buttermilk: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk not only tenderizes it but also helps the breading adhere better during frying.
• Double-Coat the Chicken: For an extra crispy coating, you can double-dip the chicken fillets—dredge them in the buttermilk mixture again after the first coat of breading, then dredge them once more in the flour mixture before frying.
• Adjust the Spice Level: The Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce provides the heat, but you can adjust the level by adding more or less Sriracha to suit your taste. If you want a milder version, reduce the amount of Sriracha and increase the honey for sweetness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the chicken, make sure there is enough space in the pan for the chicken to cook evenly. Overcrowding can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in soggy chicken.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After frying, allow the chicken to rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken juicy and tender.

Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich

• Bang Bang Chicken Tenders: Use chicken tenders instead of breasts for a smaller, bite-sized version of this sandwich. The tenders cook faster and are perfect for kids or for a party platter.
• Spicy Garlic Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich: Add minced garlic to the Bang Bang sauce for an extra layer of flavor. The garlic will add a savory depth that balances out the sweetness of the honey.
• Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich: For a healthier option, grill the chicken fillets instead of frying them. Marinate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture and grill until cooked through, then assemble the sandwich as usual.
• Vegetarian Bang Bang Sandwich: Use crispy battered cauliflower or a plant-based chicken patty as a substitute for the meat. The spicy, creamy Bang Bang sauce will still shine through, making this a great vegetarian alternative.

Storage and Shelf Life

Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftover components for later. Store the fried chicken separately from the sandwich buns and sauce to prevent sogginess.

To store the chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken in the oven or a skillet to restore its crispiness. The Bang Bang sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Assembling the sandwiches ahead of time isn’t recommended, as the bread will become soggy. However, you can prepare all the components separately and assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to serve.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches

• French Fries: Classic crispy French fries are the perfect side dish for a chicken sandwich. You can also serve sweet potato fries for a slightly healthier option.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Pickled Vegetables: Serve the sandwich with pickled cucumbers, jalapeños, or onions to add an extra layer of flavor and acidity that balances the richness of the sandwich.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: A simple side of grilled corn on the cob with a sprinkle of chili powder and lime complements the spicy and sweet flavors of the sandwich.

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Conclusion

The Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is a deliciously spicy, crispy, and creamy sandwich that will quickly become a favorite. With a simple yet flavorful Bang Bang sauce and perfectly fried chicken, this sandwich offers the perfect combination of textures and tastes. It’s customizable, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or hosting a gathering, the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this crispy, spicy delight—you’ll be hooked after the first bite!