Name: Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: asian-american
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup flour; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs; Cooking spray; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp lemon juice

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Short Description

Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is a crispy, flavorful dish coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. This healthier version of the classic deep-fried favorite delivers crunch and bold flavor without excessive oil, making it a perfect choice for a quick and delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative – Uses an air fryer for a crispy texture without deep-frying.
Bold Flavor – The bang bang sauce combines sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
Easy to Make – Simple steps make it accessible for home cooks of all levels.
Versatile – Works as an appetizer, main dish, or even a sandwich filling.
Quick Cooking Time – Ready in under 30 minutes for a hassle-free meal.

Ingredients

chicken breast or thighs buttermilk flour cornstarch seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper) eggs panko breadcrumbs cooking spray mayonnaise sweet chili sauce Sriracha lemon juice

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, soak them in buttermilk for about 15 minutes to tenderize.
Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, add panko breadcrumbs.
Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, dredge in the flour mixture, dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
Air Fry: Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.
Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lemon juice until smooth.
Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, toss it in the sauce or drizzle over the top before serving.
Serve Immediately: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Variations

Spicier Version: Add extra Sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko and flour alternatives.
Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk for dairy-free milk mixed with lemon juice.
Baked Version: Bake in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Honey Bang Bang Sauce: Replace sweet chili sauce with honey for a different twist.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken without the sauce for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, and use a light coating of cooking spray.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and stay juicier.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken?

It pairs well with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Is this dish very spicy?

The spice level is moderate, but you can adjust the Sriracha to taste.

Can I use store-bought breaded chicken?

Yes, but homemade breading gives better flavor and crispiness.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

Milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar works as a substitute.

Can I bake this instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Pat the chicken dry before breading and press the breadcrumbs firmly.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great healthier alternative.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines crispy, golden chicken with a sweet and spicy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this healthier version of a takeout favorite is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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