Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is the kind of dish people love: there’s a perfect blend of tastes, spicy, sweet, and savory, all at once. With origins in Sichuan cuisine, the dish has become popular throughout the country and is known for its rich and complex flavor. At the center of this dish is meltingly tender chicken, shredded or cut into slightly shaggy pieces and bathed in a rich, creamy sauce with complex flavors that keep you coming back for another bite.
The signature sauce is what makes this Bang Bang Chicken recipe just absolutely amazing. Combining ingredients such as chili paste, peanut butter, garlic, and sesame oil, the sauce has a nice bite to it but remains creamy. Hot or cold as an entrée, this dish is adaptable and simple to prepare, making it suitable for weeknight meals or entertaining.
With an easy Bang Bang chicken recipe, anyone can make this mouthwatering, restaurant-quality dinner at home. With a few simple steps and basic ingredients, you can prepare Sichuan cuisine right in your own home kitchen. Once you taste the addictive flavor, with a smooth texture and satisfying denseness, it will become a regular item in your recipes.
- What is Bang Bang Chicken?
- Key Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
- Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients
- Optional Toppings and Garnishes
- Step-by-Step Bang Bang Chicken Recipe Instructions
- Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
- Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Bang Bang Chicken
- Why This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe Works Every Time
- Conclusion
- Share Your Twist!
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a classic Sichuan dish that has gained global popularity. The “Bang Bang” in the name comes from the noise of a wooden mallet striking chicken to tenderize it, as is done traditionally. I make this with shredded chicken, in a creamy, spicy and nutty sauce that has an interesting variety of textures and flavors.
Key Facts:
- Origin: Sichuan Province, China
- Flavors: Spicy, sweet, nutty, and savory
- Serving Style: Can be served hot, warm, or cold
- Texture: Tender, juicy chicken coated in a smooth sauce
Over time, this dish has been adapted into various versions worldwide, often with creative sauces and ingredients. However, the essence remains the same: tender chicken, bold flavors, and irresistible creamy sauce.
“Bang Bang Chicken is the perfect example of how a simple ingredient list can create extraordinary flavor when combined thoughtfully.” – Chef Mei Ling
Key Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
To make a delicious Bang Bang Chicken Recipe, it’s important to choose the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed guide:
Chicken : Choosing the Best Cut
Choosing the right chicken is essential for this recipe. Here are the most common options:
| Chicken Cut | Pros | Cons | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | Lean, tender | Can dry out if overcooked | Shredded Bang Bang Chicken |
| Chicken Thighs | Juicy, more flavorful | Higher fat content | Richer, more flavorful dish |
| Rotisserie Chicken | Already cooked, convenient | Slightly less control | Quick Bang Bang Chicken Recipe |
Tip: Always cook chicken until fully done but still tender. Pounding or shredding chicken helps it absorb the sauce better.
Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients
The sauce is the star of this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe. Traditional ingredients include:
- Chili paste – for heat and authenticity
- Peanut butter – creamy, nutty flavor
- Garlic – adds depth
- Sesame oil – nutty aroma
- Optional: soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, Szechuan peppercorns
Pro Tip: Adjust chili paste according to your preferred spice level.
Optional Toppings and Garnishes
Toppings make the dish more visually appealing and add extra flavor:
Fresh cilantro for color
Crushed peanuts for crunch
Sliced green onions for freshness
Toasted sesame seeds for aroma
Step-by-Step Bang Bang Chicken Recipe Instructions
Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to making the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Recipe.
Preparing the Chicken
- Boil or poach chicken in water with a pinch of salt until fully cooked.
- Let it cool slightly, then shred or cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Optional: marinate briefly with salt, pepper, and a dash of soy sauce for added flavor.
Tips for tender chicken:
- Avoid overcooking
- Use thighs for juicier meat
- Shred chicken evenly for better sauce coverage
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
- Combine chili paste, peanut butter, garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and a splash of water in a bowl.
- Whisk thoroughly until smooth.
- Taste and adjust for spiciness, sweetness, or saltiness.
Pro Tip: The sauce should be creamy and pourable, not too thick.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
- Place shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken.
- Toss gently until chicken is evenly coated.
- Garnish with green onions, peanuts, and sesame seeds.
Serving Suggestion: Serve hot over steamed rice or chilled as a salad.
Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
You can customize this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe to suit different tastes:
- Spicy version: Increase chili paste or add fresh chili slices
- Peanut-free version: Use almond butter or tahini
- Vegetarian/Vegan version: Replace chicken with tofu or cauliflower
- Low-carb/Keto-friendly: Serve over zucchini noodles instead of rice
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Bang Bang Chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
- Stir-fried or steamed vegetables
- Cold noodles for a refreshing twist
- Lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
Tip: Adding a fresh salad or cucumber slices helps balance the richness of the sauce.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Bang Bang Chicken
- Shred chicken evenly for consistent sauce coverage
- Make sauce ahead of time to enhance flavor
- Store properly: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Avoid overcooking chicken to keep it tender
Pro Tip: Taste sauce before combining; it should be bold, creamy, and slightly spicy.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
| Nutrient | Approx. per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbs | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Health Tips:
Adjust chili paste for sensitive stomachs
Use natural peanut butter for less sugar
Serve with vegetables for a balanced meal
Why This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe Works Every Time
My Bang Bang Chicken Recipe is successful because it nails everything : Texture, flavor & easy peasy cooking! The succulent chicken, rich peanut sauce and some crunchy add-ins if you like. How to make Bang Bang Chicken at home. So let’s talk about how you can still make that restaurant-worthy, 30 minutes to the dinner table kind of plate.
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Medium pot or saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or fork
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large serving bowl
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce optional
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons chili paste adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 –3 tablespoons water to thin sauce as needed
- Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Crushed peanuts
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Boil or poach chicken until fully cooked, then shred or cut into pieces.
- Make the sauce: Mix peanut butter, chili paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and garlic in a bowl until smooth. Add a little water if needed.
- Combine: Toss shredded chicken with the sauce until fully coated.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions, peanuts, or sesame seeds. Serve hot or cold over rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust chili paste according to your heat preference.
- Chicken Options: Thighs are juicier; breasts are leaner.
- Make Ahead: Sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Combine with chicken before serving.
- Variations: Try a peanut-free version using almond butter or a vegan version with tofu or cauliflower.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Sweet and Spicy Bang Bang Chicken is the perfect all-purpose dish! This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe demonstrates how a few ingredients and a creamy and spicy sauce can raise an ordinary chicken recipe to another level. Hot over rice or cold like a salad, it’s sure to become your favorite easy recipe.
Try this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe today and experience the perfect combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors!
Share Your Twist!
Bang Bang Chicken is incredibly versatile, and we’d love to hear how you make it your own! Here are some ideas to inspire your twist:
- Extra Spicy: Add fresh chili slices or a dash of Sriracha for an extra kick.
- Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Use tofu, tempeh, or roasted cauliflower instead of chicken.
- Creative Serving: Turn it into a Bang Bang Chicken wrap, salad, or lettuce cup.
- Flavor Boost: Add ginger, lime juice, or chopped fresh cilantro to the sauce.
We want to see your version! Share your photos, tips, or secret ingredient in the comments below or tag us on social media. Your twist could inspire someone else to try this easy and delicious Bang Bang Chicken Recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a Sichuan-style dish made with tender shredded chicken coated in a creamy, spicy, and nutty peanut sauce. It can be served hot, cold, or over rice and noodles.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days and combine just before serving for the freshest taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or roasted cauliflower, and use a vegan-friendly peanut butter and soy sauce to make it vegan.
How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?
The spice level depends on the chili paste used. You can adjust the amount to make it mild, medium, or extra spicy according to your preference.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken and sauce separately. Thaw and gently reheat before combining. Note that the sauce may thicken, so add a splash of water to adjust consistency.