Easy and Delicious Bang Bang Chicken Recipe in the Air Fryer
If you love crispy chicken coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, then this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe Air Fryer is a must-try! Originating from Asian-inspired cuisine, Bang Bang Chicken gets its name from the signature sauce, which combines creamy mayonnaise, spicy Sriracha, and sweet chili sauce. This dish is usually deep-fried, but with the help of an air fryer, you can enjoy a healthier version without compromising on flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or snack, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with irresistible taste.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Active Time (Cooking): 20 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Course: Appetizer/Main Course
- Servings: 4
- Calories: ~350 per serving
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cooking tongs
- Baking sheet (optional for resting)
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tsp Sriracha sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for added sweetness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Cut the chicken: Wash and pat dry the chicken, then cut it into evenly sized bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Prepare coating stations:
- Bowl 1: Add flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Bowl 2: Whisk eggs until smooth.
- Bowl 3: Place panko breadcrumbs.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
- Transfer the chicken to the egg mixture, coating it completely.
- Finally, coat the chicken in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere the crumbs well.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them. (You may need to cook in batches.)
- Spray the tops of the chicken lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
- Air fry for 18-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through for even cooking.
- The chicken is ready when the coating is golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- While the chicken cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey (if using) in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 2-3 minutes to cool slightly.
- Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over the crispy chicken or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flair.
Tips for Success
- Choose the right chicken: Thighs tend to be juicier, but breasts work well too.
- For extra crispiness: Add a teaspoon of olive oil to the panko breadcrumbs before coating the chicken.
- Adjust spice levels: If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the Sriracha or omit it altogether.
- Reheat leftovers: Place leftover chicken in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 350°F to re-crisp.
Why Use the Air Fryer?
Air frying makes this recipe healthier by cutting down on oil while still achieving a crispy texture. Compared to traditional deep-frying, you use significantly less fat without sacrificing taste or texture. Plus, the air fryer ensures even cooking with minimal effort.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this Bang Bang Chicken Recipe Air Fryer with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve it over rice or noodles for a heartier option.
- Enjoy it as an appetizer with other air-fried snacks like egg rolls or spring rolls.
This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe Air Fryer combines the best of crispy-coated chicken with the irresistible flavors of the Bang Bang sauce. It’s a healthier, flavorful twist on a beloved dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try it today, and your taste buds will thank you!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.