Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and easy dish that combines crispy, juicy chicken thighs with a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even as a party appetizer. With a simple preparation and bold flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy and juicy: The chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, offering a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Bold flavors: The Bang Bang sauce delivers the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy.
Easy to make: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this a go-to recipe for any night.
Versatile: Serve it over rice, in tacos, or alongside veggies for a complete meal.
Crowd-pleaser: The combination of textures and flavors makes it a favorite for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
Salt and black pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Cornstarch (for a crispy coating)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
Mayonnaise
Sweet chili sauce
Sriracha
Honey
Rice vinegar
Green onions (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Coat the Chicken: Lightly dust the chicken thighs with cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Cook the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth.
Coat the Chicken: Toss the cooked chicken thighs in the Bang Bang sauce until well coated.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Oven-Baked: Instead of frying, bake the chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Extra Spicy: Add more sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free mayo alternative.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your sweet chili sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warm. You can also use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken thighs without sauce for up to 2 months. Reheat and toss in fresh sauce before serving.

FAQs

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The heat level depends on the amount of sriracha used. Adjust it to your preference.

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may take longer to cook through.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?

Serve with rice, noodles, or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work best due to their high smoke points.

Can I make this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, swap cornstarch with almond flour and use a sugar-free sweet chili sauce.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I use frozen chicken thighs?

Yes, but thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even frying.

Is Bang Bang sauce the same as Boom Boom sauce?

No, Boom Boom sauce is slightly sweeter and contains mustard, whereas Bang Bang sauce is spicier.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Yes, grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy way to add bold flavors to your meal rotation. With crispy chicken and a creamy, spicy sauce, this dish is sure to impress. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry, it’s a recipe that offers versatility and great taste. Try it out and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!