Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is a fun and tasty dish! It’s crispy chicken bites tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce that makes your taste buds dance. Plus, it’s healthier because it’s made in an air fryer!
Making this is a breeze! Just season your chicken, air fry it, and mix it with the sauce. I love serving it with rice or a fresh salad—perfect for any meal. You’re going to want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The star of the dish! Using chicken breast gives a lean protein option. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be used, offering a juicier texture. You can also use frozen chicken, just ensure it’s thawed completely before cooking.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a super crispy texture, but regular breadcrumbs work too. For a gluten-free option, try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. I love using seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra flavor punch!
All-Purpose Flour: This is used for coating the chicken. If you want a gluten-free version, almond flour or coconut flour can be good substitutes. Just remember that coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so adjust accordingly.
Mayonnaise: It’s key for the Bang Bang sauce! If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt can work well in place of mayonnaise, providing creaminess with added protein. Personally, I find mixing half mayo and half Greek yogurt balances flavor and health.
Sriracha: Adjust the spice to your liking! If you’re not a fan of spicy, you can use a mild hot sauce or even omit it for a milder version. If you love heat, try adding more!
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy in an Air Fryer?
Getting your chicken crispy in the air fryer is all about the coating and cooking method. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to shake off excess flour and eggs well. This prevents sogginess.
- Lightly spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray right before cooking. This helps crisp it up without overloading on oil.
- A single layer in the air fryer is crucial. Crowding the basket can lead to steaming instead of crisping, so cook in batches if necessary.
- Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking for even crisping.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly crunchy Bang Bang Chicken every single time!
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and approximately 10-12 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy and tasty dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This helps to ensure your chicken gets that perfect crispy coating!
2. Prepare the Coatings:
In one bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the two eggs until they’re well beaten. Place the breadcrumbs in a third bowl, ready for coating!
3. Dredge the Chicken:
Take each piece of chicken and first coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the eggs, letting the extra drip off, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Do this for all the chicken pieces.
4. Air Fry the Chicken:
Place the breaded chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, giving them a little space if you can. Lightly spray them with cooking spray for that crispy finish. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking, until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, grab another bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. This will be your tasty Bang Bang sauce!
6. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the hot chicken pieces and give it a good toss to coat all the pieces evenly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken hot, garnished with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy this easy and flavorful dish!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and juiciness to your Bang Bang Chicken. Just make sure to cut them into similar bite-sized pieces. The cooking time should remain about the same, but be sure to check that they’re cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What if I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can use regular breadcrumbs instead. For an extra crunch, consider toasting the breadcrumbs in a pan with a little oil before coating the chicken. This will add a nice texture and flavor to the dish.
How to Store Leftovers?
To store any leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep that crispiness intact!
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to a week in advance. Just mix the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will save you time when you’re ready to toss the chicken!
