Craving a spicy, creamy, and crispy treat? These Bang Bang Chicken Bites are a quick and easy solution. Made with just 5 simple ingredients, they are perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside. The star of the dish is the addictive spicy mayo glaze that coats each bite, delivering bold flavors with every crunch.
This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, game day snack, or party appetizer. Whether you serve them with rice, vegetables, or as a standalone snack, these Bang Bang Chicken Bites will have everyone asking for more.
Chef and food creator Lisa Carter says, “With just five ingredients, you can make a restaurant-quality dish at home that’s spicy, creamy, and absolutely irresistible.”
Key Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast (or thighs) | 1 lb | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Cornstarch | 1/2 cup | For crispy coating |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup | Use full-fat for creaminess |
| Sriracha sauce | 2 tbsp | For spicy kick |
| Sweet chili sauce | 2 tbsp | Adds sweetness and depth |
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Bites?
1. Prepare the Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well.
2. Coat the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Shake off excess cornstarch.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Pan-Fry: Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Make the Spicy Mayo Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and sweet chili sauce. Adjust the amount of sriracha for your desired spice level.
5. Toss the Chicken in the Sauce
Once the chicken is crispy, remove it from the air fryer or skillet and transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the spicy mayo sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat each piece evenly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Approx. Amount (per serving) | Health Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250–300 kcal | High-protein, filling snack |
| Protein | 25–30 g | Supports muscle repair |
| Fat | 15–18 g | Healthy fats from mayo and chicken |
| Carbs | 10–12 g | Low-carb for a satisfying treat |
| Fiber | 1–2 g | Helps digestion |
These chicken bites are a low-carb, high-protein option perfect for anyone looking to fuel up with a healthy, satisfying snack.
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Bites?
- Only 5 simple ingredients
- Crispy chicken with creamy, spicy mayo glaze
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or dinner
- Customizable for spice preferences
“They taste so good you’ll forget they’re healthy,” says recipe developer Jake Moore. “You can even serve them to kids, and they’ll be gone in minutes.”
Flavor Variations to Try
- Coconut Bang Bang Chicken: Add shredded coconut to the cornstarch coating for a tropical twist.
- Garlic Parmesan: Toss the chicken in garlic powder, parmesan, and parsley for a savory version.
- Sweet and Spicy: Increase the amount of sweet chili sauce for a sweeter, milder flavor.
- Buffalo Bang Bang Chicken: Swap sriracha for buffalo sauce for a tangy twist.
These variations keep the base of crispy chicken and creamy sauce while adding exciting new flavors.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Bites
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for the juiciest bites.
- Pat the chicken dry before coating for a crispier texture.
- Double-coat the chicken in cornstarch for an extra crispy crust.
- Adjust the sriracha for your preferred spice level more for heat, less for a mild kick.
- For the crispiest result, use the air fryer. It gives the chicken that perfect crunch without extra oil.
Chef Laura Fields recommends, “The secret to the crispiness is the cornstarch coating. Don’t skip this step!”
What to Serve With Bang Bang Chicken Bites?
These spicy chicken bites pair beautifully with a variety of sides:
| Side Dish | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed rice | Grain | Complements the sauce and adds bulk |
| Roasted vegetables | Healthy | Try roasted broccoli or carrots for balance |
| Salad | Light | A fresh cucumber or Asian-style slaw works well |
| Sweet potato fries | Comfort | A sweeter, crunchy side |
These bites are versatile and easy to pair with whatever sides you enjoy most.
Health Benefits of Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Despite the creamy, flavorful sauce, these chicken bites provide several health benefits:
- High in protein for muscle growth and recovery
- Low in carbs, making them a great option for keto or low-carb diets
- Healthy fats from olive oil and mayonnaise for sustained energy
- Packed with flavor without being overly heavy or greasy
“By swapping out fried chicken for this air fryer version, you’re cutting down on unnecessary oils but still enjoying a crunchy, flavorful meal,” says dietitian Chloe Bennett.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Chicken Bites are a perfect blend of crispy chicken and creamy, spicy mayo sauce. With just 5 ingredients, they come together quickly and easily for a satisfying snack, appetizer, or dinner.
Once you make these, they’ll become a household favorite. Serve them with your favorite sides or just enjoy them on their own for a burst of bold flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the chicken bites can be cooked and tossed in the sauce ahead of time. Just reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them back up.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts work as well, though they won’t have the same crispy edges as bone-in.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to keep them crispy.
Can I make these without sriracha?
Yes, you can substitute sriracha with other hot sauces or use a combination of chili paste and honey for a sweet and spicy version.
How spicy are these?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of sriracha, which gives them a moderate heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.