This Quick and Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is a fun and tasty dish that makes dinner a breeze. Crispy, golden chicken pieces get a spicy, creamy bang bang sauce that’s just the right mix of sweet and tangy. The air fryer gives the chicken a perfect crunch without needing a lot of oil, which is a total win on busy nights.
I love making this recipe when I don’t have much time but still want to impress my family or guests. It’s quick, simple, and so satisfying. The bang bang sauce is my favorite part—it’s got a little kick but stays creamy and delicious. I usually whisk it up while the chicken cooks so everything comes together perfectly in no time.
When I serve this, I like to pile it on a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some steamed veggies to keep things balanced. It’s also great as a fun appetizer if you cut the chicken into smaller bites. Honestly, this Bang Bang Chicken always gets rave reviews, and I think you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless breasts or thighs, depending on whether I want lean or juicy chicken. Thighs stay tender and flavorful. If you prefer, turkey breast is a good substitute for a leaner option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a light and crunchy texture. You can swap with crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs if avoiding gluten. Just press them on well so they stick nicely.
Bread Flour Mix: Seasoning the flour with salt, pepper, and garlic powder adds extra flavor to the coating. For a twist, try paprika or cayenne instead to add some smoky heat.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise forms the creamy base. For a dairy-free or lighter sauce, try Greek yogurt or avocado mayo. Sweet chili sauce offers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy—I keep sriracha handy to adjust heat level.
How Can You Make the Chicken Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
The secret to crispy chicken in the air fryer is a few simple steps:
- Pat the chicken dry before breading. This helps the coating stick better and crisp up.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier crust compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket. Give each piece room so hot air can circulate and crisp all sides evenly.
- Spray the breaded chicken lightly with cooking spray or oil mist before cooking to boost browning.
- Flip halfway through: This ensures both sides get golden and crispy.
These easy tips helped me get crunchy, juicy chicken every time. Plus, the air fryer cuts down oil use but keeps that fried texture we all love!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I like it because it crisps the chicken evenly without deep frying.
- Mixing bowls – for coating the chicken with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to keep the ingredients accurate and easy.
- Whisk – helps you mix the bang bang sauce smoothly.
- Cooking spray or oil mister – to lightly coat the chicken and basket for crispiness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier meat with more flavor.
- Try swapping sriracha with buffalo sauce or a spicy mustard for different heat levels.
- Add chopped pineapple or mango to the sauce for a sweet fruit twist.
- Mix in some chopped cilantro or basil after tossing with sauce for extra freshness.
Quick and Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Cooking spray or oil mist
Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp lime juice (optional for brightness)
For Garnish:
- Sliced green onions (scallions)
- Chopped red chili or red pepper flakes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer, for a total of around 25 minutes. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect when you want something tasty without the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken for Coating:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. In a shallow bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Put the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
2. Coat the Chicken Pieces:
Take each chicken piece and first coat it in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it evenly with the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently so the crumbs stick well to the chicken.
3. Air Fry the Chicken:
Spray or lightly brush your air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure they aren’t crowded for even cooking. Lightly spray the chicken pieces with cooking spray to help them crisp.
Air fry the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and lime juice in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
5. Toss and Serve:
When the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and toss with the bang bang sauce until all pieces are coated. Sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped red chili or red pepper flakes on top for a pop of color and a little extra zing.
Serve immediately with rice, steamed veggies, or enjoy as a flavorful appetizer. Enjoy your crispy and delicious Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat the chicken dry to ensure the coating sticks well and the chicken crisps up nicely in the air fryer.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before tossing with the chicken.
How Should I Store Leftover Bang Bang Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to help maintain the crispy texture instead of microwaving.
Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Bang Bang Sauce?
Of course! You can reduce or omit the sriracha for a milder sauce or add extra for more heat. Sweet chili sauce adds sweetness, so you can tweak the balance by adjusting it or the honey to your taste.