Baked Bang Bang Chicken

This easy Baked Bang Bang Chicken recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown chicken coated in a sweet and spicy Sriracha mayo sauce. Baked, not fried, for a healthier take on the classic, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. The combination of crunchy panko breadcrumbs and flavorful sauce makes each bite irresistible. Ideal for serving as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, Baked Bang Bang Chicken is sure to become a favorite. Try it with rice, veggies, or a salad for a complete meal. Fast, flavorful, and family-friendly!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Vegetable oil spray

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Instructions

1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Sriracha, sugar, and rice vinegar. Stir until well blended and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
3. Set Up Dipping Stations: In a shallow dish, beat the eggs with salt and pepper. In another shallow dish, combine the flour. In a third shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs with onion powder and garlic powder.
4. Coat the Chicken: First, dredge the chicken pieces in the flour, making sure each piece is fully coated. Then dip the floured chicken in the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
5. Bake the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, and lightly spray with vegetable oil. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the chicken with oil to promote crispiness.
6. Bake: Bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve: Once the chicken is done, drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken or toss the pieces in the sauce to coat. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Tips

• Even Coating: Make sure each chicken piece is fully coated with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for the crispiest texture.
• Crispy Chicken: For extra crispy chicken, spray the chicken with more oil before baking.
• Checking Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to be fully cooked.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spice Level: Adjust the Sriracha in the sauce to your preferred level of heat. For a milder version, reduce the amount of Sriracha or swap it for a different hot sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Sauce Swap: If you prefer a different sauce, try a honey mustard or barbecue sauce for a different flavor twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just make sure they’re boneless and skinless.

Q: Can I prep this in advance?
A: Yes, you can bread the chicken pieces ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze leftover Bang Bang chicken?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken pieces for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve Baked Bang Bang Chicken with a side of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Pair with a fresh salad, such as a cucumber and avocado salad, to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Add extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle more over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: Baked instead of fried, this dish offers a healthier twist on the classic Bang Bang chicken with the same irresistible crunch.
• Perfect Balance of Sweet and Spicy: The sauce combines the perfect balance of sweetness and heat, making every bite delightful.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
• Versatile: You can serve this chicken as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, making it perfect for any occasion.