Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Original recipe yields 6 servings

Ingredients

Nuggets

• 1 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts and/or thighs
• 2 tablespoons fine dry breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• teaspoon cayenne pepper
• teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup cornstarch
• 1/3 cup self-rising flour
• 1/3 cup sliced green onions
• 3 cups vegetable oil for frying (or as needed)

Sauce

• cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons honey (or to taste)
• 3 tablespoons Sriracha hot sauce, plus more for serving
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• teaspoon ground Sichuan pepper (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Cut the chicken into pieces about 1 to 1 inches in size. Add them to the bowl of a food processor.

Step 2: Add the breadcrumbs, salt, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the food processor. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground but still slightly textured (not a smooth puree).

Step 3: Scoop 2 tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture onto a sheet pan, creating a total of 24 portions. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: In the meantime, combine the self-rising flour and cornstarch in a bag, and shake to mix well. (If using all-purpose flour, add teaspoon of baking powder.)

Step 5: Wet your hands slightly and shape each portion into a ball. Add 5 to 6 balls at a time to the flour mixture, tossing to coat. Shake off the excess and place the coated nuggets back on the sheet pan.

Step 6: Once coated, form each nugget into the desired shape. Balls are best for deep frying, while flat shapes work better for pan-frying. Chill the nuggets in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours before frying. You can also prepare them a day ahead.

Step 7: For the sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, honey, Sriracha hot sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and Sichuan pepper (if using) in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 8: Heat the oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 350F (175C). Deep fry the nuggets until golden brown on the outside and no longer pink in the center, about 4 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165F (74C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer. Alternatively, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and shallow fry the nuggets, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes per side.

Step 9: Transfer the cooked nuggets to a mixing bowl and add half of the sliced green onions. Pour in about cup of the sauce and toss to coat.

Step 10: Serve the nuggets on a platter, topping with more Sriracha and the remaining green onions. Extra sauce can be served on the side for dipping or used as a spread for sandwiches.

Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Amount	% Daily Value
Calories: 634
Total Fat: 49g	62%
Saturated Fat: 10g	49%
Cholesterol: 157mg	52%
Sodium: 1141mg	50%
Total Carbohydrate: 22g	8%
Dietary Fiber: 1g	4%
Total Sugars: 8g
Protein: 29g	57%
Vitamin C: 4mg	4%
Calcium: 52mg	4%
Iron: 2mg	12%
Potassium: 386mg	8%

The Fascinating Story Behind Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets

Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets, as we know them today, trace their roots back to Asian-inspired cuisine, particularly influenced by Chinese and Thai flavors. The term Bang Bang is believed to have originated from the sound of the tenderizing process in traditional Chinese recipes, where chicken was pounded with a wooden stick to achieve a delicate texture. Over time, this method evolved in Western kitchens, giving rise to a crispy, bite-sized version that combines the signature sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce with juicy chicken pieces. Today, Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets are celebrated as a fusion dish, balancing Eastern flavor profiles with American convenience and snack culture.

Regional Characteristics

While Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets are enjoyed globally, certain regional variations highlight local tastes. In the United States, the dish is typically fried or air-fried and served with a creamy, slightly sweet Sriracha-mayo sauce, emphasizing bold, tangy flavors. In contrast, in Southeast Asia, similar dishes may include additional aromatics like lemongrass, ginger, or garlic, with a lighter batter and fresh herbs. The inclusion of Sichuan pepper in some recipes adds a numbing, citrusy undertone that reflects Chinese culinary techniques. These regional twists demonstrate the dishs versatility and how it adapts to diverse culinary traditions.

What Sets It Apart from Similar Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets differ from standard chicken nuggets primarily through their signature sauce and preparation method. Unlike conventional nuggets that rely solely on breading and deep frying, Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets are marinated, lightly spiced, and coated in a combination of cornstarch and self-rising flour, resulting in a crispier exterior. The eponymous Bang Bang saucea mixture of mayonnaise, honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegaradds a unique sweet, spicy, and tangy flavor profile that elevates the dish beyond typical fast-food offerings.

Where They Are Commonly Served

These nuggets are versatile enough to appear in various dining contexts. They are popular as appetizers in casual Asian-fusion restaurants, featured on menus at modern American diners, and often prepared at home for family dinners or parties. Their portability and finger-food format make them ideal for game-day snacks or lunchboxes. Additionally, Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets are sometimes incorporated into sandwiches or wraps, paired with fresh greens and extra sauce for a more substantial meal.

Interesting Facts

• Despite its name, Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets are not extremely spicy; the heat is balanced with sweet and tangy elements.
• The dish has inspired numerous adaptations, including vegetarian versions using tofu or cauliflower.
• The sauce can double as a dip for fries, spring rolls, or even as a sandwich spread.
• The original concept of Bang Bang chicken comes from a centuries-old Chinese preparation method where the chicken is tenderized with a wooden mallet.
• The global popularity of the dish is largely thanks to social media, where recipe videos highlight the striking visual appeal of the bright, glossy sauce coating the golden nuggets.

FAQ about Bang Bang Chicken Nuggets Recipe

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