Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Chicken nuggets recipe is a timeless favorite, loved by kids and adults alike. But what if you could elevate this classic snack with a burst of tangy, spicy, and creamy flavors? Enter the Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets! Inspired by the iconic Bang Bang Sauce, this dish combines crispy chicken nuggets with a zesty sauce that will dance your taste buds. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
A Brief History of Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets Recipe:
The Bang Bang Sauce for the chicken nuggets can be traced back to Thai and Chinese cuisine, where a mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors is often used to create mouthwatering dishes. While the original Bang Bang Sauce was crafted for seafood like shrimp, it’s now a popular addition to chicken dishes, giving them an irresistible kick. The name “Bang Bang” is said to represent the bold explosion of flavors that this sauce delivers.
Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Shallow dishes for breading
- Large frying pan or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Paper towels
Ingredients
For the Chicken Nuggets:
- 2 pounds (900g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken NuggetsSeason the chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Toss well to coat evenly.Set up the breading station: In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.Bread the chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
- Step 2: Fry the Chicken NuggetsHeat the oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a frying pan to submerge the nuggets. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).Fry the nuggets: Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Step 3: Make the Bang Bang SauceMix the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the spice level if needed.
- Step 4: Combine and ServeCoat the nuggets: Transfer the fried chicken nuggets to a large bowl. Pour the Bang Bang Sauce over them and toss to coat evenly.Garnish and serve: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Video
Similar Recipes You’ll Love:
Bang Bang Shrimp: Crispy shrimp tossed in the same irresistible Bang Bang Sauce.
Spicy Chicken Bites: Bite-sized chicken pieces with a fiery glaze.
Buffalo Chicken Tenders: A classic with a tangy buffalo twist.
Honey Garlic Chicken Nuggets: Sweet and savory nuggets glazed in honey garlic sauce.
Korean Fried Chicken: Double-fried chicken with a sticky, spicy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets Recipe:
1. Can I bake the chicken nuggets instead of frying them?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with cooking oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. Is there a gluten-free alternative for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Double-check that your sweet chili sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
3. How can I make the recipe less spicy?
Reduce or omit the sriracha in the Bang Bang Sauce. You can also increase the mayonnaise or add a bit of plain yogurt for a milder flavor.
4. Can I air-fry the chicken nuggets?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the nuggets in a single layer and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
6. Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, the Bang Bang Sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
7. What’s a good side dish for Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets?
They pair well with coleslaw, fries, steamed vegetables, or a light cucumber salad.
8. Can I use pre-made frozen nuggets?
Definitely! Cook the frozen nuggets according to the package instructions, then toss them in the Bang Bang Sauce.
9. What’s a good substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?
You can use plain Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute for mayonnaise.
10. Can I use other proteins for this recipe?
Yes! Shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower make excellent alternatives to chicken in this recipe.
Conclusion:
Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets are the perfect fusion of crispy and creamy, with just the right amount of heat. Whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a family dinner, or simply craving a snack, this recipe is a must-try. Pair it with a fresh salad, steamed rice, or your favorite dipping sauces for a complete meal. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked on the bold and delicious flavors of Bang Bang!
YouTube Video Credits:
Food Wishes
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