Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Author:

Sophie Carter

June 1, 2026

Updated:

June 1, 2026

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more

Jump to Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe features tender, crispy chicken coated in a spicy, creamy sauce, making it a hit for families and beginner cooks alike. It’s the perfect option for a weekday dinner or a festive gathering, bringing warmth and excitement to your table. Best of all, this dish comes together quickly, making it a reliable choice when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to love this Bang Bang Chicken recipe. It’s not only crowd-pleasing but also incredibly adaptable, making it ideal for busy families and home cooks who value simplicity without sacrificing taste. With crispy chicken and vibrant veggies, you’ll find a blend of textures and flavors in every bite. Plus, this dish is budget-friendly, using ingredients that can be easily found in your pantry or local grocery store, so you can whip it up any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this fantastic dish, gather the following ingredients:

1/4 cup tapioca starch or potato starch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
2 tablespoons avocado oil (divided)
3 tablespoons avocado mayo (divided)
1/3 cup honey
3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1-2 tablespoons hot sauce
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 1/2 cups sliced carrots
2 cups sliced red cabbage
2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 medium cucumber, sliced
Freshly squeezed lime juice, to taste
1 medium green onion stalk, chopped (for garnish)
Black sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Ingredient Notes, Variations & Simple Swaps

Tapioca Starch or Potato Starch: This ingredient helps create a crispy coating on the chicken. If you don’t have either, using cornstarch can work in a pinch but may yield slightly different texture results.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Chicken is perfect for this dish due to its mild flavor and quick cooking time. You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option if preferred.
Avocado Oil: This oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, perfect for frying. You may substitute it with vegetable oil if needed.
Avocado Mayo: This gives a creamy texture to the sauce. Regular mayonnaise can easily replace it if you don’t have avocado mayo.
Honey and Sweet Chili Sauce: Both add sweetness and depth. For a lower-sugar option, consider using maple syrup or agave in the sauce.

Equipment Needed

Medium bowl
Large non-stick skillet
Paper towels
Serving bowls

How to Make This Recipe

Step 1 – Coat the Chicken

In a medium bowl, mix the tapioca starch, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the cubed chicken and toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. This coating helps achieve a crispy exterior when frying.

Step 2 – Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated chicken. Cook for about 5-8 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 5-8 minutes until fully cooked. You want the chicken to be golden and crispy, so listen for that nice sizzle as it cooks.

Step 3 – Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken cooks, mix the honey, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of avocado mayo in a large bowl. Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4 – Toss the Chicken in Sauce

Add the cooked chicken to the sauce bowl and toss until the chicken is fully coated in the delicious mixture. This step layers flavors into your dish and creates that signature Bang Bang taste.

Step 5 – Cook the Veggies

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and heat it over medium-high. Add the sliced carrots and sauté for about 10 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the sliced red cabbage and season with salt and garlic powder, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes.

Step 6 – Prepare the Bowls

Warm the jasmine rice and divide it among four bowls. Top each rice serving with the cooked veggies and sliced cucumber. Drizzle freshly squeezed lime juice over each bowl for a refreshing kick.

Step 7 – Final Touches

Combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of avocado mayo with the reserved 1/4 cup of sauce. Drizzle this over the assembled bowls. Top with green onions and optional black sesame seeds for added flavor and a decorative touch.

Tips for Perfect Results

To get the most out of your Bang Bang Chicken, here are some handy tips:

Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying the chicken, make sure not to overload the skillet. Crowding can lower the oil’s temperature, leading to sogginess instead of crispiness.
Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Adjust heat carefully: If you notice the chicken starting to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly. You want it golden, not burnt.
Customize spice level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of hot sauce in the mixing step, or try a mild chili sauce.
Experiment with veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or snap peas, to keep things interesting!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Sometimes, things can go a bit off when cooking. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Not coating the chicken enough: Make sure every piece is well-coated to achieve that crispy texture. If you skip this step, you may end up with less flavor and soggy chicken.
Skipping the marinade time: Allowing the sauce to sit on the cooked chicken for a few minutes deepens the flavor; don’t rush this step.
Too much sauce: While sauce is delicious, be careful not to add too much or it can make the dish soggy. Drizzle in moderation.
Cutting veggies too thick: Ensure all veggies are cut evenly and not too thick to guarantee even cooking. Thinner slices will soften perfectly.
Forgetting to season after cooking: A pinch of salt after sautéing veggies can really enhance their flavor.

Flavor Variations

If you’re looking to spice up your Bang Bang Chicken, here are a few variations to try:

Crispy Baked Version: For a healthier twist, bread and bake the chicken instead of frying. Coat it with the starch and bake until golden.
Honey-Mustard Variation: Swap honey for a honey-mustard blend for a sweet and tangy flavor hit in the sauce.
Tropical Twist: Add diced pineapples or mangoes to the sautéing veggies for a sweet tropical taste.
Creamy Coconut Sauce: Combine coconut milk with the other sauce ingredients for a tropical flavor.
Add different greens: Mix in some spinach or kale with the cabbage for added nutrients and flavor.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This Bang Bang Chicken is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your meal with these pairings:

Steamed broccoli: A great side that adds a nutritious crunch and complements the dish’s flavors.
Quinoa or brown rice: For a whole grain twist, serve this chicken over heartier grains that absorb the flavors beautifully.
Asian-style cucumbers: A side of marinated cucumbers adds freshness and a zesty bite to balance the richness of the chicken.
Fresh herb salad: A light salad made from fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can add a refreshing contrast.

Budget & Ingredient Sourcing

You can create this delicious dish without breaking the bank. Here are some tips for sourcing ingredients affordably:

Buy in bulk: Purchasing bulk rice or spices can save money in the long run.
Use frozen veggies: Frozen carrots and cabbage are often less expensive and just as nutritious as fresh ones.
Look for sales: Keep an eye on sales for chicken and condiments like honey and hot sauce; stocking up when prices are low can save you money later.
Shop local markets: Local farmers’ markets often offer fresh produce at competitive prices compared to grocery stores.

Meal Prep & Batch Cooking Tips

If you want to save time, here are some tips for preparing this dish in advance:

Prep the chicken ahead: Coat the chicken with the tapioca starch mix the night before for a quick cook the next day.
Cook rice in advance: Prepare jasmine rice ahead of time and refrigerate it. It reheats well and saves cooking time.
Chop veggies ahead: Pre-slice your veggies early in the week for easy assembly when you’re ready to cook.
Store sauce separately: Prepare your sauce and keep it in the fridge for up to a week for quick assembly.

Nutritional Benefits

This Bang Bang Chicken is not just tasty; it also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Here are some key ingredients and their positives:

Chicken: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle health and growth.
Cabbage: Packed with vitamins K and C, it supports your immune system and promotes gut health.
Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which helps maintain vision and healthy skin.
Honey: A natural sweetener that can provide quick energy and contains antioxidants.
Avocado Oil: Contains healthy fats, which are great for heart health.

Storage, Make-Ahead & Leftovers

To store your Bang Bang Chicken for later, here are some tips:

Fridge storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing guidance: You can freeze the cooked chicken and veggies together in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating instructions: To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, which helps maintain that crispy coating. You can also use a microwave but expect a softer texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free starch like cornstarch or a pre-made gluten-free flour blend in place of tapioca or potato starch.
What kind of hot sauce should I use?
You can choose any hot sauce based on your preference for spice. Sriracha or a chili garlic sauce works great.
Can I use different meats?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef or even shrimp if those options fit your meal preference.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of hot sauce in the recipe, or omit it entirely and just stick with the sweet chili sauce for a milder flavor.
Is Bang Bang Chicken good cold?
Yes, it can be enjoyed cold as a leftover! It makes a great addition to salads or wraps for a quick, tasty meal on the go.