If you are craving a sandwich that truly excites your taste buds, this Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe is your ultimate go-to. Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy chicken breast, generously coated in a creamy, spicy chili sauce that’s bursting with bold flavor. Paired with crunchy slaw and nestled in a warm, toasted bun, this sandwich offers the perfect harmony of textures and zest that feels indulgent yet simple. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this dish delivers satisfaction in every single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating a masterpiece. Each element in this Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe plays a crucial role, from the bird’s tenderness to the sauce’s vibrant kick and even the crispness of the slaw.
- Chicken breasts (2 boneless, skinless): Pounded to an even thickness, ensuring juicy, even cooking every time.
- Buttermilk (½ cup): Adds moisture and helps tenderize the chicken for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- All-purpose flour (½ cup): Provides the base for the crispy coating, creating a perfect crunch.
- Cornstarch (½ cup): Keeps the crust light and crisp without any heaviness.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle smoky warmth to the crust.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Brings a savory depth that complements every bite.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Oil (for frying or grilling): The secret to that irresistible golden crisp or char.
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Creates the creamy base for the zingy Bang Bang sauce.
- Sweet chili sauce (2 tablespoons): Brings a gentle sweetness and mild heat, making each bite luscious.
- Sriracha (1 tablespoon): Adds a spicy punch that wakes up your palate.
- Honey (1 teaspoon): Balances the heat with a touch of natural sweetness.
- Burger buns (2): Toasted to golden perfection for a soft but sturdy sandwich foundation.
- Shredded lettuce or cabbage slaw (½ cup): Gives fresh crunch and a refreshing contrast.
- Sliced pickles (optional): For that tangy zip that cuts through richness with ease.
- Butter (for toasting buns): Imparts a rich flavor and beautiful golden crust to the buns.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Step 1: Marinate and Prep the Chicken
Start by marinating your chicken breasts in buttermilk and a pinch of salt and pepper for at least 15 minutes. This simple step is a game-changer—it tenderizes the meat beautifully and locks in moisture so every bite is juicy and flavorful. Meanwhile, mix your dry ingredients—flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—in a shallow dish. This coating will create the wonderfully crispy shell that makes this sandwich memorable.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat your oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, pressing it gently to ensure an even, hearty coating. Fry each side for 3 to 4 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. For a lighter version, grilling the chicken is just as effective—offering a smoky char with less mess and oil.
Step 3: Whip Up the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. This creamy, spicy, and sweet concoction is the soul of the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe and adds that exciting zing that keeps you coming back for more.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
Butter your burger buns lightly and toast them in a hot pan until golden brown. This adds a toasty crunch and buttery flavor, creating a sturdy, tasty frame for your sandwich.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread the Bang Bang sauce lavishly on both halves of the toasted buns. Layer the succulent chicken breast on the bottom bun, add the crisp shredded lettuce or cabbage slaw for refreshing crunch, and if you love tangy accents, top with sliced pickles. Cap it off with the top bun, press gently, and your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is ready to wow your taste buds.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or green onions works beautifully as a garnish, adding a pop of color and fresh flavor that brightens up the sandwich. For an extra dash of texture and zest, try a few thin slices of fresh jalapeño or a squeeze of lime just before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich with simple sides that complement without overpowering. Crunchy sweet potato fries, a crisp cucumber salad, or even classic coleslaw all work perfectly. If you want something lighter, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the sandwich beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Switch things up by serving this sandwich as a wrap instead of a bun for a lighter, handheld twist. Alternatively, turn it into an open-faced sandwich on toasted sourdough with an extra drizzle of Bang Bang sauce, then garnish with microgreens for a café-style presentation that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich components, store the chicken separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce refrigerated in a small jar, and store buns in a sealed bag at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Freezing
The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to a month, but for best flavor and texture, freeze it unassembled and tightly wrapped. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Reheating
Reheat leftover chicken in a skillet over medium heat to retain crispiness, or warm briefly in the oven. Avoid microwaving directly to keep that signature crunch. Toast the buns fresh before assembling again to bring the sandwich back to life.
FAQs
Can I use grilled chicken instead of fried for the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe?
Absolutely! Grilling is a fantastic lighter alternative that still delivers great flavor and texture. Just marinate and grill until cooked through, then proceed with assembly as usual.
How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
The sauce has a balanced kick from sriracha and sweet chili sauce but is not overwhelmingly hot. If you prefer more heat, simply add extra sriracha or a pinch of cayenne powder to up the spice level.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice. Use dairy-free mayonnaise and buns to keep the sandwich completely dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! The recipe scales up well. You can marinate and cook the chicken in batches, making it easy to assemble multiple sandwiches quickly for a gathering or party.
What’s the best way to keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, toast the buns well and add the Bang Bang sauce just before serving. Keep wet ingredients like pickles separate if not serving immediately, and assemble sandwiches last minute when possible.
Final Thoughts
This Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe is a total winner when you want bold flavors, satisfying crunch, and a quick turnaround in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved favorite. Go ahead, give it a try and share the joy of this irresistible sandwich with your family and friends!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
This Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is a crispy, spicy delight slathered in a creamy chili sauce that delivers bold flavors with every bite. Featuring juicy fried or grilled chicken topped with crunchy slaw on a toasted bun, it’s a satisfying handheld meal perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend treats.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying or grilling
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon honey
For Assembly
- 2 burger buns
- ½ cup shredded lettuce or cabbage slaw
- Sliced pickles (optional)
- Butter for toasting buns
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine buttermilk, salt, and pepper in a bowl, then submerge the pounded chicken breasts. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will give the chicken its crispy, flavorful crust.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Dredge each chicken breast thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Fry each piece for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, grill the chicken for a lighter option, ensuring it reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth and creamy. This sauce provides the sandwich’s signature sweet-spicy kick.
- Toast the Buns: Spread a little butter on the burger buns and toast them in a pan over medium heat until they’re golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the Bang Bang sauce on both halves of each toasted bun. Place a piece of cooked chicken on the bottom bun, top with shredded lettuce or cabbage slaw and sliced pickles if using, then cover with the top bun.
- Serve: Serve immediately while the sandwich is warm and the topping is crisp for the best taste and texture experience.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce.
- Use an air fryer to cook the chicken for a healthier, crispy alternative.
- Transform this sandwich into a wrap by substituting the burger bun with a tortilla.
