If you’re on the hunt for a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer that will impress your friends and family, look no further than Bang Bang Chicken Bites. These juicy morsels of chicken are coated in a flavorful blend of spices and tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that packs a punch. Perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in, Bang Bang Chicken Bites are sure to become a new favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the details of this mouth-watering recipe!
The Upside of Bang Bang Chicken Bites
The beauty of Bang Bang Chicken Bites lies in their versatility and flavor. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and the sauce is a perfect balance of spicy and sweet. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they can also be customized to suit your taste preferences. You can adjust the level of spice or even make them healthier by air frying instead of deep frying. Plus, they are incredibly easy to whip up, making them ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Shopping List
To get started with your Bang Bang Chicken Bites, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons sriracha
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (for extra spice)
What’s in the Gear List
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools:
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
- Baking sheet – to bake or air fry the chicken bites.
- Parchment paper – for easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Whisk – for mixing the sauce ingredients thoroughly.
- Cooking thermometer – to check the doneness of the chicken.
Directions: Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the chicken breast pieces with sesame oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sriracha. Mix well to ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated.
Step 2: Coat with Cornstarch
Sprinkle the cornstarch over the seasoned chicken and toss until all the pieces are lightly coated. This will give your chicken bites a crispy texture once cooked.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the chicken pieces out in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. This will help them cook evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Bake the chicken bites in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can also air fry them for a healthier option, cooking for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and additional sriracha. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your preferred level of heat.
Step 6: Coat the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Then, toss the warm chicken bites in the Bang Bang sauce until they are thoroughly coated.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer the sauced Bang Bang Chicken Bites to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve them warm with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Make It Year-Round
You can enjoy Bang Bang Chicken Bites any time of the year by following these tips:
- Change up the dipping sauces based on the season. Try a tangy mango salsa in the summer or a creamy ranch in the winter.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables into the dish. Add bell peppers or carrots for a crunchy texture.
- Experiment with different proteins. Shrimp or tofu can be delicious alternatives to chicken.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
When making Bang Bang Chicken Bites, consider these common pitfalls:
- Overcooking the chicken – Use a cooking thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) without drying out.
- Too much sauce – Drizzle the sauce on top instead of tossing it all at once to avoid soggy bites.
- Not enough crunch – Ensure the chicken pieces are well-coated with cornstarch, and avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet.
Storing Tips & Timelines
To keep your Bang Bang Chicken Bites fresh:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crispiness.
- For longer storage, freeze the sauce separately from the chicken bites. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reader Questions
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the sauce ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator and combine just before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or even sweet chili sesame glazed meatballs with rice noodles for a complete meal.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can substitute with shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a delicious twist.
How spicy are Bang Bang Chicken Bites?
The spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. Feel free to reduce the sriracha in the sauce or omit it altogether for a milder version.
If you loved this recipe, check out these other delicious dishes:
That’s a Wrap
Bang Bang Chicken Bites are not just a simple appetizer; they’re a culinary adventure that brings flavors and textures together in perfect harmony. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these chicken bites offer a delightful burst of flavor with every bite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress with your Bang Bang Chicken Bites!
Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the chicken breast pieces with sesame oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and sriracha. Mix well to ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the cornstarch over the seasoned chicken and toss until all the pieces are lightly coated.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the chicken pieces out in a single layer.
- Bake the chicken bites for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is baking, prepare the sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and additional sriracha.
- Once the chicken is cooked, toss the warm chicken bites in the Bang Bang sauce until they are thoroughly coated.
- Transfer the sauced Bang Bang Chicken Bites to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
- For longer storage, freeze the sauce separately from the chicken bites for up to 2 months.
