BANG BANG CHICKEN TENDERS
Indulge in the bold flavors of our Bang Bang Chicken Tenders! These crispy, golden chicken tenders are coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that packs a punch. Perfect for game day snacks, quick dinners, or anytime you crave a savory treat with a bit of heat. Get ready to enjoy a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy to make and even easier to devour!
Our love for Bang Bang Chicken Tenders began at a local food truck festival where we stumbled upon a vendor selling these irresistible treats. The first bite was a revelation – crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and that spicy-sweet sauce that left a lingering heat.
Since then, recreating these chicken tenders at home has become a regular affair. Whether we’re hosting friends for a casual get-together or simply enjoying a laid-back weekend meal, Bang Bang Chicken Tenders always steal the show. They’re addictive, satisfying, and guaranteed to disappear fast!
Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Chicken Tenders
- Crunchy Perfection: Panko-crusted chicken tenders fry up golden brown for the perfect texture.
- Spicy Sauce: A creamy blend of sweet chili sauce and mayo adds a kick that balances the crunch.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps for a quick and tasty meal.
- Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or sandwich filling for a variety of meal options.
Ingredients Notes For Bang Bang Chicken Tenders
- Chicken Tenders: Use fresh or frozen chicken tenders for convenience.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Provide extra crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds both sweetness and heat to the sauce. Adjust amount for desired spiciness.
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the Bang Bang sauce.
Recipe Steps:
- Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
- In a shallow dish, place 1 pound of chicken tenders. Season with salt and pepper.
- In another shallow dish, place 1 cup of all-purpose flour. In a third shallow dish, whisk together 2 large eggs.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat each tender in 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Working in batches, cook the chicken tenders for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sriracha sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Coat the Chicken Tenders:
- Toss the fried chicken tenders in the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Arrange the Bang Bang Chicken Tenders on a serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
- Serve hot with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Storage Options:
- Leftovers: Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Variations & Substitutions:
- Baked Option: For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken tenders in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free alternative.
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken tenders with tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian version.
BANG BANG CHICKEN TENDERS
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Season chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha sauce until smooth and well combined.
- Toss fried chicken tenders in the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated.
- Arrange Bang Bang Chicken Tenders on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot with extra sauce for dipping.