Crispy, flavorful, and coated in a creamy, spicy sauce—Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that wins hearts every time. But what if you could enjoy this indulgent treat with less guilt? Air-Fried Bang Bang Chicken – A Healthier Twist! brings all the flavor and crunch of the classic dish without the excess oil. It’s the perfect recipe for family dinners, parties, or even a solo indulgence!

Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to recreate this healthier version in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Air-Fried Bang Bang Chicken

Imagine biting into a piece of crispy, tender chicken coated with a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang Sauce. The air fryer’s magic ensures the chicken is perfectly golden without the need for deep-frying, making it a healthier option. This recipe keeps all the classic flavors while cutting down on the oil, so you can enjoy every bite guilt-free.

Ingredients for Air-Fried Bang Bang Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make the sauce and the chicken:

Bang Bang Sauce

Ingredient	Amount
Mayonnaise	1 cup (232 g)
Thai sweet chili sauce	½ cup (132 g)
Sriracha	1 teaspoon
Honey	2 tablespoons

Chicken

Ingredient	Amount
Boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins	1 ½ pounds
Buttermilk	1 cup (245 g)
All-purpose flour	¾ cup (94 g)
Cornstarch	½ cup (64 g)
Large egg (room temperature)	1
Sriracha	1 tablespoon
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon
Kosher salt	½ teaspoon
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon
Cayenne pepper (optional)	⅛ teaspoon
Panko breadcrumbs	2 cups (216 g)
Canola oil	For spraying
Parsley (chopped)	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
2. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
3. Set aside to use as a dipping sauce or to coat the chicken later.

2. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, flour, cornstarch, egg, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the chicken tenderloins and toss to coat them thoroughly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator.

3. Bread the Chicken

1. Place the Panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate.
2. Remove each piece of chicken from the batter, letting any excess drip off.
3. Dredge the chicken in the Panko, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.
4. Set the coated chicken on a clean plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.

4. Air Fry the Chicken

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with canola oil to prevent sticking.
3. Arrange the breaded chicken in a single layer, ensuring the pieces don’t touch.
4. Spray the tops of the chicken with a light coating of oil for extra crispiness.
5. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. Coat with Bang Bang Sauce

1. Transfer the cooked chicken to a large bowl.
2. Drizzle the Bang Bang Sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat.

6. Garnish and Serve

1. Arrange the chicken on a serving plate.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with extra sauce on the side.

Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Bang Bang Chicken

• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This helps the batter stick better to the chicken.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Add more Sriracha to the sauce or marinade if you like extra heat.
• Keep It Crispy: Toss the chicken with the sauce right before serving to maintain the crunch.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	350
Protein	25g
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	4g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	780mg

Why Air-Frying is a Healthier Option

Air-frying uses hot air circulation to cook food, which reduces the need for excessive oil. Here’s why it’s a better choice:

1. Lower Fat Content: You can achieve a crispy texture with minimal oil.
2. Fewer Calories: Less oil means fewer calories, making it ideal for those watching their intake.
3. Even Cooking: The air fryer ensures the chicken cooks evenly, both inside and out.
4. Convenience: No need to deal with messy oil splatters or cleanup.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Air-Fried Bang Bang Chicken with these sides for a complete meal:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A neutral base that complements the bold flavors of the chicken.
2. Asian Slaw: A crunchy, tangy salad with shredded cabbage and carrots.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Lightly seasoned broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier alternative to regular fries with a touch of sweetness.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Bang Bang Chicken: Add extra cayenne pepper and Sriracha for a fiery kick.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
3. Baked Bang Bang Chicken: Bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Shrimp Version: Swap chicken for shrimp to make Bang Bang Shrimp.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and prepare the sauce in advance. Reheat the chicken in the air fryer to maintain its crispiness before tossing it with the sauce.

2. What can I use instead of Sriracha?
You can substitute Sriracha with chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

3. Can I use chicken breast instead of tenderloins?
Absolutely. Slice chicken breast into strips to mimic tenderloins for even cooking.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

5. Is Bang Bang Sauce spicy?
The sauce has a mild kick, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less Sriracha.

6. Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken?
Yes. Freeze the breaded chicken before air frying, then cook directly from frozen. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Air-Fried Bang Bang Chicken is a game-changer for anyone who loves crispy, flavorful dishes without the guilt. It’s easy to make, healthier than traditional frying, and bursting with bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, this dish is sure to impress.

Conclusion: Time to Try Air-Fried Bang Bang Chicken!

Now that you know how to make Air-Fried Bang Bang Chicken – A Healthier Twist!, it’s time to put on your apron and get cooking. With its irresistible crunch and signature sauce, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a healthier take on a classic comfort food.

Print