What is Bang Bang Chicken Made Of?

If you’re curious about what puts the “bang” in Bang Bang Chicken, you’re not alone. This popular dish, often hailed for its explosive flavors, leaves many wondering about its ingredients and preparation. Let’s delve into the recipe and discover what makes this spicy mayo chicken dish a culinary delight.

Originating from the famed street food scene of Sichuan, China, Bang Bang Chicken, or bam chicken as it’s sometimes called, is characterized by tender, shredded chicken that has been perfectly poached with aromatic ginger and spring onions. The term “bang” comes from the traditional method of tenderizing the chicken by hitting it, allowing it to soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce. This sauce is a delightful blend of salty, sweet, sour, and hot elements made with ingredients like soy sauce, sesame paste, and Sichuan peppercorns. Initially enjoyed as both a picnic staple and a banquet centerpiece, this dish promises a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Key Takeaways

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes including additional time
• Servings: 4
• 404 calories per serving
• Contains 27g of carbs and 27g of protein
• Prominently features shredded chicken tossed in a spicy mayo-based sauce
• Derived from Sichuan street food, with the term “bang” referring to the method of tenderizing the chicken
• Western versions often involve breaded and fried chicken pieces

Introduction to Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a mouth-watering dish that brings together the best elements of rich, flavorful Sichuan cuisine and the fresh simplicity of a Chinese chicken salad. The origins of this delectable dish lie in its unique preparation method and sauce combination that makes it stand out. The phrase “Bang Bang” reflects the sound made when chicken is pounded to tenderize it, ensuring it absorbs the sauce perfectly.

This appetizer’s appeal extends beyond its catchy name. Typically, the Bang Bang Chicken recipe involves coating bite-sized chicken pieces with a mixture of spices and batter, creating a crispy outer layer while keeping the meat tender. The preparation time usually clocks at 35 minutes, including combining ingredients like all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and various spices for the chicken batter.

The true star of Bang Bang Chicken is undoubtedly its signature sauce. Made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha sauce, lemon juice, and honey, this sauce delivers a balance of sweetness and heat that is characteristic of Sichuan cuisine. This “strange flavor” blend perfectly complements the chicken, making every bite delightfully explosive in taste.

Interestingly, the versatility of Bang Bang Chicken adds to its popularity. Not only is it a great fit for relaxed picnics, but it also seamlessly transitions into formal gatherings, embodying the essence of a Chinese chicken salad with a spicy twist. Its sturdy preparation allows for refrigeration and reheating, making it a convenient yet exotic choice for any meal.

Understanding Bang Bang Chicken’s origins and place within Sichuan cuisine provides a deeper appreciation for this dish. For food enthusiasts and home cooks alike, mastering the art of Bang Bang Chicken can introduce an exciting and flavorful element to their culinary repertoire.

What is Bang Bang Chicken made of?

Bang Bang Chicken is a delightful combination of battered chicken, traditionally poached, and an intricate sauce. The dish showcases a symphony of flavors featuring spicy mayo, which is a critical component. This section delves into the essential bang bang chicken ingredients that make this dish a favorite among many.

The classic preparation involves poaching the chicken to ensure it maintains its moisture and achieves a tender texture. However, adaptations featuring crispy chicken are also popular, where the chicken is marinated, coated in batter, and deep-fried to achieve a delightful crunch.

The Bang Bang sauce, an essential element of the dish, traditionally consists of:

• 1 cup (250 g) whole-egg mayonnaise
• ¼ cup (60 g) sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp sriracha or hot chili sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp lime juice

This sauce’s creamy, sweet, and spicy profile perfectly complements the chicken’s texture, whether it’s poached or fried.

The core of Bang Bang Chicken lies in its carefully selected chicken ingredients. Typically, the recipe calls for:

• 600 g (1 lb 5 oz) boneless chicken thighs
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp cracked black pepper
• 1 tbsp tamari or regular soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup (60 g) bang bang sauce
• 1 spring onion (scallion), sliced

For those preferring a plant-based option, firm tofu or cauliflower can serve as excellent substitutes for battered chicken. These alternatives hold up well to the poaching or frying methods while still delivering a satisfying experience.

Compared to traditional crème brûlée’s creamy vanilla custard topped with a caramelized sugar crust as detailed here, Bang Bang Chicken’s allure lies in its contrasting textures and bold, flavorful components.

In conclusion, Bang Bang Chicken’s composition varies, but the heart of the dish remains its tender chicken and the distinctive, flavorful sauce. Whether you choose the poached method for a traditional take or the fried version for added crunch, the result is equally delicious.

The Origin of Bang Bang Chicken

The Bang Bang chicken history stretches back to the early 20th century in Sichuan’s Hang Yang Ba. This dish, known for its distinct preparation method, became a popular street food item that customers could purchase piece by piece by placing a coin on the counter. The name “Bang Bang” derives from the sound of a wooden cudgel striking down on a cleaver to slice through the cooked chicken efficiently.

Historical Background

The technique behind Sichuan Bang Bang chicken truly captures the culinary tradition of Sichuan Province. In the 1920s, Bang Bang Chicken began appearing on restaurant menus in Chengdu, gaining popularity for its flavor and unique preparation. Initially, cooks used wooden cudgels to tenderize the chicken. This tactile method made it easier to tear the chicken into shreds, enhancing flavor absorption from the accompanying sauce.

Cultural Significance

Sichuan Bang Bang chicken is deeply rooted in Sichuan cuisine, celebrated for its bold and spicy flavors. The traditional approach of “poach, bash, and drizzle” reflects a cultural appreciation for texture and taste intricately combined. The dish is mentioned by Taste of Asian Food as an authentic element in Chinese Szechuan recipes and by Culinary Lore, which recognizes the tenderizing method with a wooden stick as endemic to street vendors. Today, Bang Bang Chicken has transcended its regional roots, finding a place on American menus like The Cheesecake Factory and evolving with diverse culinary twists.

Aspect	Traditional Sichuan Bang Bang Chicken	Modern Interpretations
Main Preparation Technique	Poach, Bash, and Drizzle	Various, including roasting or deep-frying
Chicken Treatment	Hit with wooden cudgel	Torn or cut, sometimes breaded
Common Sauce Ingredients	Sichuan peppercorns, Chinkiang vinegar, chili oil	Variations include sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, mayo
Popularity	Sichuan street food staple	Menu item in various American restaurants

Key Ingredients in Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken is a delectable dish known for its vibrant flavors, crispy texture, and of course, the mouthwatering Bang bang sauce. Let’s dig deeper into the vital components that make this dish so irresistible.

Main Protein: Chicken

The main protein chicken is the star of this dish. For the best results, you can use one pound of chicken breast. If you prefer a richer flavor, using dark meat such as chicken thighs is an excellent alternative. The chicken is typically tenderized in 1/2 cup of buttermilk, which helps to prevent protein bonding due to its lactic acid content. This marination not only softens the meat but also helps it absorb the flavors.

Sauce Components: Spicy Mayo and More

The bang bang sauce stands out for its complex flavor profile, combining spicy, sweet, and tangy notes. The sauce typically includes mayonnaise, chili-garlic sauce, sriracha, honey, cayenne (or smoked paprika), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. A quick sauce using mayo, Thai sweet chili sauce, and sriracha is often used due to its simplicity and robust taste. An essential feature of this sauce is that it requires no cooking, making it both convenient and fuss-free.

Additional Ingredients

To complete this dish, adding key Asian spices is a must. These spices include soy sauce, vinegar, and ground Sichuan peppercorns, which contribute to the dish’s distinctive flavor. Other additional ingredients for texture and garnish can include diced spring onions, toasted sesame seeds, and chopped peanuts. These not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a delightful crunch.

Throughout the process, it’s essential to keep an eye on nutritional values, with the traditional serving providing 469 calories, 32g of carbohydrates, 26g of protein, and 25g of fat. For those looking to customize this dish, chicken can be substituted with tofu for a vegetarian alternative, and buttermilk can be swapped with soy milk for a dairy-free version.

In summary, the perfect Bang Bang Chicken balances its main protein chicken with a unique blend of sauces and spices, offering an unforgettable culinary experience.

How to Prepare the Chicken

Achieving the perfect Bang Bang Chicken starts with mastering the preparation process. Understanding the nuances of marinating and frying chicken will elevate your dish to new heights. Let’s dive into these essential steps with some expert cooking techniques.

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating chicken is crucial for infusing flavor and ensuring tenderness. Begin by soaking 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a mixture of 1 cup buttermilk, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, and 1 large egg. This blend not only adds a slight tang but also tenderizes the meat. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes to fully absorb the flavors.

Frying for Optimal Crispiness

Frying chicken to perfection requires precision. Start by coating the marinated chicken in a mixture of ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup cornstarch, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, and 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs. Ensuring an even coating is key for that coveted crunch.

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet to a temperature between 350-375°F. Gently place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, frying each side for approximately 3 minutes until fully cooked. Expert tips recommend double dipping the chicken in the batter and breadcrumbs for an extra layer of crunch. This twice-frying technique, often used in Asian cooking techniques, locks in moisture and enhances the chicken’s exterior texture.

By incorporating these cooking techniques, from marinating chicken thoughtfully to frying it with precision, you ensure your Bang Bang Chicken delivers on both flavor and texture, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Making the Perfect Bang Bang Sauce

The magic behind the bang bang chicken lies in its exceptional sauce. Crafting the perfect bang bang sauce recipe involves a balance of various flavors that truly elevate the dish.

 

Combining Flavors

When combining Asian sauce flavors, it’s important to start with the base ingredients. Typically, the sauce includes:

• 1 cup of reduced-fat or full-fat mayonnaise
• 2/3 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha
• Juice of 1 lime or 1/2 tablespoon of rice vinegar

The harmony of these ingredients provides the creamy, sweet, and spicy profile that makes the sauce irresistible. For those looking to experiment, substituting Thai sweet chili sauce with Frank’s buffalo sauce and honey can introduce a new layer of depth to the flavors.

Adjusting Spiciness and Sweetness

Perfecting spiciness is crucial for tailoring the sauce to your personal preference. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of Sriracha or add a touch more mayonnaise. Conversely, if you enjoy a kick, increase the Sriracha or sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne powder or paprika.

It’s equally simple to adjust the sweetness. Adding more Thai sweet chili sauce or a teaspoon of honey can sweeten the mixture if desired. Remember, the versatility of the bang bang sauce recipe allows you to tweak these flavors to get a customized taste that complements the chicken perfectly.

Once prepared, this sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, ensuring you always have a delicious condiment on hand.

Combining Chicken and Sauce

After preparing your crispy, golden-brown chicken pieces and a deliciously tangy spicy mayo chicken dish sauce, it’s time to bring the components together. The secret to a perfect Bang Bang Chicken lies in the even coating of the sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor. Below are the detailed steps and serving tips to elevate your Tossing Bang Bang chicken experience.

Tossing for Even Coating

The process of Tossing Bang Bang chicken starts by placing the freshly fried chicken pieces into a large bowl. Gradually pour the bang bang sauce over the chicken, using a spatula or spoon to gently toss and coat each piece thoroughly. The key is to achieve an even distribution, ensuring that the sauce clings beautifully to the chicken. This method guarantees that every bite is equally flavorful, with the rich, creamy, and spicy notes of the sauce complementing the crispy exterior of the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Bang Bang Chicken is versatile and can be adapted to various meals. Here are some serving tips to make the most of this spicy mayo chicken dish:

1. Appetizer: Serve the Bang Bang Chicken on a platter, garnished with green onions and red pepper flakes. It makes a stunning appetizer for your guests.
2. Main Course: Pair it with a bowl of white or brown rice, fried rice, or sautéed vegetables to create a balanced and flavorful meal.
3. Salad: Toss the coated chicken pieces with a fresh salad base including lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes for a healthier twist.

Additionally, consider incorporating some of the following side dishes to complement the Bang Bang Chicken:

Side Dish	Description
Steamed Jasmine Rice	A fragrant and slightly sticky rice that pairs perfectly with the strong flavors of the chicken.
Stir-fried Vegetables	A mix of broccoli, bell peppers, and snow peas lightly sautéed with garlic and soy sauce.
Asian Slaw	Crunchy cabbage, carrots, and cilantro drizzled with a light sesame dressing, adding a refreshing contrast.

With these serving tips, your Bang Bang Chicken will not only look appetizing but will also create a memorable dining experience.

Alternative Cooking Methods

While traditional Bang Bang Chicken consists of deep-fried chicken pieces served with a spicy mayo sauce, there are several alternate cooking methods that enhance the dish’s tenderness and flavor. These methods prioritize retaining the juiciness and delicate textures of the chicken through advanced techniques.

Poaching Chicken

The poaching technique is an excellent way to keep the chicken tender and moist without compromising flavor. Poaching involves gently simmering the chicken in a flavorful broth or water until cooked through. This method not only preserves the chicken’s natural juices but also allows it to soak up additional flavors from the poaching liquid. To poach chicken for Bang Bang Chicken, simply simmer boneless skinless chicken breasts in a pot of seasoned water until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, let the chicken cool before shredding or slicing it to prepare for the sauce.

Using a Sous-Vide Machine

For those looking for precision and consistency, the sous-vide method is a modern and popular choice. Sous-vide chicken involves vacuum-sealing the chicken breasts and cooking them in a water bath at a controlled temperature, typically around 140-158°F. This technique ensures the chicken remains exceptionally tender and evenly cooked from edge to edge. After sous-vide cooking, quickly sear the chicken in a hot pan to achieve a golden-brown exterior before tossing it with the signature Bang Bang sauce. The result is succulent, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with the spicy and sweet elements of the sauce.

Exploring these alternate cooking methods such as the poaching technique and using a sous-vide machine allows you to enjoy Bang Bang Chicken while tailoring the preparation to your culinary preferences. Whether you prefer the traditional deep-fried crunch or the delicate texture achieved through poaching or sous-vide, there’s a method to suit every taste.

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