why make this recipe
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is a delicious twist on classic fried chicken. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and has a creamy, spicy sauce that adds a burst of flavor. Using an air fryer makes it a healthier option without sacrificing taste, as it requires less oil than traditional frying. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or any time you want a tasty meal with minimal effort.
how to make Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients :
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (optional)
- Green onions, for garnish
Directions :
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three separate bowls: one with cornstarch, one with beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Dip each piece of chicken first in cornstarch, then in the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- In another bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to create the bang bang sauce.
- Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the bang bang sauce.
- Serve warm, garnished with green onions.
how to serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is best served warm. You can enjoy it as an appetizer, a main dish, or even in a wrap. Pair it with a fresh salad or rice for a complete meal. It also works well with a variety of dipping sauces for extra flavor.
how to store Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Leftover Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it back in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through, ensuring it stays crispy.
tips to make Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
- Make sure the chicken pieces are evenly cut for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Feel free to adjust the level of sriracha in the bang bang sauce to suit your heat preference.
- Experiment with adding different spices to the breadcrumb mixture for a unique twist.
variation
You can switch up the protein by using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different taste. Both options will work well with the bang bang sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed before breading and cooking.
How can I make the bang bang sauce spicier?
Add more sriracha or include ingredients like chili flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
Is there a gluten-free option for the breading?
Yes! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of panko.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (optional)
For Garnish
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three separate bowls: one with cornstarch, one with beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture.
Breading and Cooking
- Dip each piece of chicken first in cornstarch, then in the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Making the Sauce
- In another bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha to create the bang bang sauce.
- Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the bang bang sauce.
Serving
- Serve warm, garnished with green onions.
