The Ultimate Sweet in 30 Minutes

If you’ve never experienced the crispy, juicy delight of Bang Bang Chicken Bites, you’re in for a flavor-packed treat. This dish is the perfect harmony of texture and taste – tender, golden-fried chicken pieces generously coated in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that clings to every bite. It’s the kind of bold, addictive flavor fusion that lingers in your memory long after the last piece is gone.

Inspired by Asian-American cuisine and made popular by restaurants like Bonefish Grill, Bang Bang Chicken Bites have found a beloved spot in home kitchens across the world. The appeal lies not just in the explosion of flavors, but also in the ease and speed with which this restaurant-quality dish comes together. In just 30 minutes, you can recreate a crowd-pleasing favorite that feels gourmet, without the fuss.

What made this dish a staple in my own kitchen? It’s fast, it’s foolproof, and it wins over everyone – from picky kids to spice-loving adults. The sauce’s balanced profile – creamy and tangy with a gentle heat – makes it incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it over rice, in wraps, or as a party appetizer, Bang Bang Chicken Bites are always a hit.

Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bites

Recipe by BY ALYSSACourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

~450 kcal per serving

kcal

Crispy chicken bites tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce — ready in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• For the Chicken Bites:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar as a substitute)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• Vegetable oil, for frying

• For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce

• 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust for spice level)

• 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional, for added sweetness)

• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice (for tang)

• Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped green onions

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Lime wedges

Directions

• Marinate the Chicken
  In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the buttermilk.
  Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to tenderize and flavor the meat.
• Prepare the Coating
  In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
• Make the Bang Bang Sauce
  In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth. Set aside.
• Bread and Fry the Chicken
  Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat (350°F / 175°C).
  Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
  Dredge chicken in the seasoned flour mixture, coating well on all sides.
  Fry in batches for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
• Toss in Sauce and Serve
  In a large bowl, toss the hot chicken bites with the Bang Bang sauce until well coated.
  Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Bites

Crafting the ultimate Bang Bang Chicken Bites starts with a thoughtful selection of ingredients that come together to create that signature crisp exterior and creamy, spicy-sweet finish. Here’s everything you need, along with smart substitutions and tips for the best results.

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken Breast (cubed): Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. Cut them into bite-sized cubes for even cooking and maximum crunch.
• Cornstarch or All-Purpose Flour: Used for coating the chicken, cornstarch gives a lighter, crispier texture, while flour offers a more traditional crust.
• Eggs: Lightly beaten, eggs help the coating adhere to the chicken and ensure a golden finish.
• Oil (for frying or air frying): Choose a neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or avocado oil. If you prefer a lighter version, air frying works beautifully.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or light mayo.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds sweetness and tang with a hint of heat. Opt for a Thai-style variety for more authentic flavor.
• Sriracha: Brings the spicy kick. Adjust to your heat preference.
• Honey: Balances the spice and adds a touch of sweetness.

Garnishes:

• Green Onions: Thinly sliced for freshness and color.
• Sesame Seeds: Adds a nutty crunch and visual appeal.

Suggested Substitutions:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for tofu or cauliflower florets.
• Gluten-Free Needs: Use rice flour or certified gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Health-Conscious Alternatives: Replace mayo with Greek yogurt to cut down on calories and fat.

Tips for Success:

• Choose organic or free-range chicken for richer flavor.
• Chill the chicken before dredging for a crisper finish.
• Always use a fresh, high-quality sweet chili sauce to elevate the overall taste.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy, Flavor-Packed Bang Bang Chicken Bites

Creating Bang Bang Chicken Bites at home is not only quick and easy, but it also delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes. Follow these simple steps for perfectly crispy chicken tossed in a mouthwatering, sweet-and-spicy sauce.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Begin by cubing boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized, even pieces. This ensures uniform cooking and a consistent texture in every bite. If you’re using tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian version, cut them into similar-sized chunks and pat them dry to help the coating stick better.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Prepare three shallow bowls:

• Bowl 1: Cornstarch (or rice flour/gluten-free flour).
• Bowl 2: Lightly beaten eggs.
• Bowl 3 (optional): A pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, or smoked paprika if you’d like extra flavor in the breading.

Keep the ingredients chilled, especially the chicken, as this helps the coating cling better and fry up crispier.

Step 3: Coat and Fry the Chicken

Dredge each chicken cube first in cornstarch, then dip it in egg, and again back in cornstarch for an extra crispy crust.

Now, choose your cooking method:

• Pan-fry: In a heavy skillet over medium heat, add enough oil to shallow fry. Cook in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
• Deep-fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry in small batches for 4–5 minutes.
• Air-fry: Spray lightly with oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan or fryer – this drops the oil temperature and results in soggy chicken. After cooking, transfer the pieces to a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil and stay crisp.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha, adjusted to your spice tolerance

Mix until smooth and creamy. Pro tip: Warm the sauce gently if needed, but don’t overheat—it can cause the sauce to separate.

Step 5: Toss Chicken in Sauce

Just before serving, gently toss the hot, crispy chicken bites in the Bang Bang sauce. This preserves the chicken’s crunch while giving it that signature glossy, flavor-packed coating. Alternatively, drizzle the sauce over the chicken if you want to maintain even more crunch.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Plate the Bang Bang Chicken Bites on a serving dish and garnish with:

• Thinly sliced green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds

For a creative presentation, serve over lettuce leaves, steamed rice, or tucked into soft tortillas for tacos.

Tips & Variations to Customize Your Bang Bang Chicken Bites

One of the best things about Bang Bang Chicken Bites—aside from their irresistible flavor—is how adaptable they are. Whether you’re following a specific diet, craving a new flavor twist, or planning ahead for guests, this dish can be easily modified to suit your needs. Here’s how to make it your own without sacrificing that crave-worthy taste.

Dietary Adaptations

Keto-Friendly:
To make this dish low-carb and keto-compliant, swap out cornstarch for almond flour or finely crushed pork rinds as the coating. Both give a satisfying crunch without the added carbs. Be sure to also use a sugar-free chili sauce and keto-friendly sweetener in the sauce, like monk fruit or erythritol.

Dairy-Free:
For those avoiding dairy, replace traditional mayo with vegan mayonnaise or a creamy avocado-based sauce. These alternatives still provide the rich texture needed for the Bang Bang sauce while keeping things plant-based.

Flavor Variations

Zesty Garlic-Lime Kick:
Add a clove of minced garlic and a splash of fresh lime juice to the sauce for a bright, tangy punch that complements the sweet chili base beautifully.

Smoky Chipotle Twist:
Switch out the Sriracha for chipotle in adobo sauce or a chipotle mayo to bring a deep, smoky heat to your dish. This variation is perfect for taco-style servings.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Over Jasmine or Coconut Rice: A classic pairing that absorbs all the flavorful sauce.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb, fresh option, serve in crisp butter lettuce leaves with extra sauce on the side.
• With Crispy Fries or Wedges: Turn it into a hearty comfort meal with seasoned potato sides.
• Party-Style: Serve with toothpicks as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or game-day snack.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Keep Sauce and Chicken Separate: To preserve that crispy texture, store the cooked chicken bites and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crisp again (about 8–10 minutes). Avoid the microwave, which softens the coating.
• Make-Ahead Prep: Cube and bread the chicken in advance, then freeze raw on a tray. Once frozen, store in a freezer-safe bag for easy, on-demand frying.

Nutritional Information: A Balanced Bite of Flavor and Function

Bang Bang Chicken Bites aren’t just a flavorful indulgence—they also offer a solid nutritional profile, especially when you’re mindful of your ingredients and portions. Whether you’re tracking macros or simply aiming to make smarter meal choices, here’s a detailed look at what each serving delivers.

Nutritional Breakdown per Serving

(Approximately based on a standard portion of 1 cup of chicken bites with sauce)

• Calories: ~380 kcal
• Protein: ~25g
• Fat: ~20g
• Carbohydrates: ~20g
• Fiber: ~1g
• Sugar: ~6g

This balanced profile makes Bang Bang Chicken Bites a satisfying meal or snack that delivers energy, sustains fullness, and supports muscle maintenance.

Health Highlights

• High-Quality Lean Protein:
  The star of the dish—chicken breast—is a lean source of protein that helps build and repair muscle, keeps you feeling full, and supports metabolism.
• Customizable Sauce:
  By adjusting the sweet chili sauce, honey, or using light or Greek yogurt instead of full-fat mayonnaise, you can easily reduce sugar and fat without losing flavor.

Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Sweet Chili Sauce (with Capsaicin):
  Contains capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers that may boost metabolism, improve blood circulation, and even suppress appetite slightly when consumed in moderation.
• Mayonnaise (or Greek Yogurt):
  While mayonnaise is calorie-dense, it contains healthy fats—especially when made with olive or avocado oil. Alternatively, Greek yogurt offers a protein boost with less fat and added probiotics for gut health.
• Eggs and Sesame Seeds:
  Eggs used in the breading provide vitamin B12 and choline, essential for brain function. Sesame seeds offer a subtle nutty flavor and deliver minerals like calcium and magnesium.

Nutrition Table

By focusing on lean ingredients and optional tweaks, Bang Bang Chicken Bites can fit comfortably into a variety of balanced eating plans—whether you’re aiming for high protein, lower carb, or simply a flavorful treat with nutritional perks.

Common Mistakes When Making Bang Bang Chicken Bites – and How to Fix Them

Even the most flavorful dishes can fall short without the right technique. Bang Bang Chicken Bites are simple to make, but a few common missteps can impact the final result. Here’s how to avoid them and ensure your bites come out crispy, saucy, and perfectly cooked every time.

Mistake 1: Chicken Turns Soggy

Fix:
The number one culprit behind soggy chicken is tossing it in the sauce too early. The sauce is rich and creamy, and while it’s delicious, it quickly softens the crispy coating. Always toss or drizzle the sauce just before serving to maintain that golden crunch.

Mistake 2: Sauce Separates or Looks Curdled

Fix:
Overheating mayonnaise or Greek yogurt-based sauces can cause separation. To prevent this, whisk all sauce ingredients until fully emulsified, and if warming is needed, do it gently over low heat. Never let it boil. A smooth, glossy sauce is your goal.

Mistake 3: Coating Falls Off During Cooking

Fix:
If the coating slides off or doesn’t stick well, it’s likely because the chicken wasn’t prepped properly. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before dredging. After coating in cornstarch and egg, let it rest for 5–10 minutes—this helps the crust adhere better during frying or air frying.

Mistake 4: Chicken Is Undercooked or Dry

Fix:
Cooking chicken evenly is key to flavor and safety. To avoid overcooking or undercooking, fry in small batches and use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures it’s juicy inside without being raw or tough.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Bang Bang Chicken Bites

If you’re making Bang Bang Chicken Bites for the first time—or looking to refine your technique—these frequently asked questions will help ensure success every time. From meal prep tips to kid-friendly tweaks, here are the answers you need:

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. To serve later, simply reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer until crispy, then toss it in the sauce right before serving to keep it from getting soggy.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store the chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the air fryer or a 375°F oven to restore its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soft.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Absolutely. For a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.

Is Bang Bang Chicken kid-friendly?

It can be! To make it more appealing for younger palates, simply reduce or omit the Sriracha in the sauce. You can even substitute it with a small amount of ketchup for a milder, sweeter taste kids will love.

What side dishes go well with it?

Bang Bang Chicken Bites pair beautifully with:

• Steamed jasmine or coconut rice
• Stir-fried vegetables
• Asian-style slaw with a tangy sesame dressing
• Crispy fries or sweet potato wedges for a fun twist

Bring the Heat and Crunch to Your Kitchen with Bang Bang Chicken Bites

Bang Bang Chicken Bites truly hit the sweet spot—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and drenched in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that’s downright addictive. Best of all, this flavor-packed dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Whether you’re cooking for the family, hosting friends, or just craving something bold and satisfying, these bites never disappoint. Serve them as an appetizer, tuck them into wraps, or pair with rice and veggies for a full meal. However you enjoy them, one thing’s for sure: they’re bound to become a go-to favorite.

Give the recipe a try and let us know how you made it your own—did you dial up the heat, make it keto, or try the chipotle twist? Leave a comment below and share your personal spin!

Craving more crave-worthy bites? Check out some of our other reader favorites like The Finest, Grilled Chicken Quarters or Finest Chicken Back right here on the blog.

Personal tip: Once you try this sauce, you’ll want to put it on everything—fries, tacos, even roasted veggies. It’s that good.