Bang Bang Wings Recipe

Bang Bang Wings Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Spicy Chicken Wings with Sriracha and Sweet Chili Sauce

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds chicken wings and drummettes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onion

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
  2. Preheat the air fryer to 400F (200C) following the manufacturers instructions.
  3. Place the seasoned wings into the air fryer basket, making sure they are spread out in a single layer. Cook the wings for 23 to 25 minutes, tossing them every 8 to 10 minutes to ensure they cook evenly and become golden brown and crispy. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.
  4. While the wings are cooking, prepare the sauce by combining the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a large mixing bowl. Stir the mixture well until its smooth and set aside.
  5. Once the wings are crispy and golden, transfer them to the bowl with the sauce mixture. Toss the wings gently until they are well coated with the sauce.
  6. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for garnish and serve immediately.

Cook's Note:

If you dont have an air fryer, you can also bake the wings in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425F (220C) and roast the wings for 23 to 25 minutes or until they are golden and crispy. Follow the same tossing method with the sauce after baking.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories 506
Total Fat 40g (51%)
Saturated Fat 12g (58%)
Cholesterol 99mg (33%)
Sodium 980mg (43%)
Total Carbohydrate 17g (6%)
Dietary Fiber 1g (3%)
Total Sugars 6g
Protein 20g (39%)
Vitamin C 6mg (6%)
Calcium 28mg (2%)
Iron 2mg (9%)
Potassium 234mg (5%)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note: Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amounts are based on available data.

Bang Bang Wings

Origin and History

Bang Bang Wings are a popular and tantalizing appetizer that first emerged from the fusion of Asian and American cuisines. The name "Bang Bang" is believed to have originated from the boom of flavors in every bite a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce that coats crispy chicken wings. The dish has grown in popularity in recent years, especially in the U.S., where it has become a regular feature in many Asian-inspired restaurants and bars. Although the precise origin remains unclear, it is speculated that it was inspired by the famous Bang Bang Shrimp, a dish served at several well-known American chain restaurants. The combination of sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and mayonnaise has made this dish a favorite among those who love a bold, flavorful snack or starter.

Regional Variations

While Bang Bang Wings have gained widespread popularity across the U.S., the dish has strong ties to Asian culinary influences, particularly Thai and Chinese cuisine. In some regions, especially in Thai cooking, the sauce might be spicier with more intense flavors, while in American adaptations, the sauce tends to be creamier, offering a more mellow heat. The preparation method can also vary based on the region some areas use deep-frying for extra crispiness, while others, like the recipe provided here, use an air fryer for a healthier alternative. This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit local tastes, making it a perfect example of modern culinary fusion.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Bang Bang Wings stand out from other chicken wing recipes due to their unique sauce. Unlike traditional buffalo wings, which rely on a vinegar-based hot sauce, Bang Bang Wings are coated with a creamy sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. This combination creates a balance of sweetness, spice, and creaminess that isn't typically found in classic wing recipes. The flavor profile also differs from Asian-style wings that often feature soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Bang Bang Wings, with their sweet and spicy coating, offer a different experience, appealing to those who enjoy a rich, creamy texture paired with a zesty kick.

Where to Serve Bang Bang Wings

Bang Bang Wings are ideal for a variety of occasions. They are perfect as a starter at dinner parties, or as an appetizer at casual gatherings like barbecues and Super Bowl parties. Their easy-to-share nature makes them an excellent choice for social events. In addition, they are commonly served at Asian fusion restaurants, pubs, and sports bars, often alongside other popular appetizers like spring rolls and dumplings. Due to their rich flavor, they pair well with cold beverages such as beer or iced tea, which help balance out the heat from the sriracha.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that the mayonnaise-based sauce in Bang Bang Wings is what makes them particularly creamy and rich? This is one of the key differences between these wings and other hot wing recipes. Also, the popularity of Bang Bang Shrimp from the Bonefish Grill chain restaurant helped boost the demand for Bang Bang-style dishes. In fact, many home cooks have been inspired to create their own variations of the sauce, experimenting with different levels of spice and sweetness. Interestingly, some versions even use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist, without sacrificing the creamy texture.

FAQ about Bang Bang Wings Recipe

Leftover Bang Bang Wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results to maintain crispiness.

Yes, you can freeze the wings before tossing them in the sauce. Place the cooked wings on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then toss in the sauce before serving.

Yes, you can experiment with different sauces. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you prefer a spicier sauce, try adding more sriracha or even a spicy ranch dressing.

Bang Bang Wings pair well with side dishes like coleslaw, crispy fries, or a fresh salad. For a more substantial meal, serve with rice or roasted vegetables.

Yes, you can cook the wings in the oven. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the wings for 23-25 minutes until golden and crispy, turning them halfway through.

If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, you can substitute with a combination of honey and hot sauce to create a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, you can use a store-bought alternative or make your own sweet chili sauce.

The wings have a moderate level of spice, thanks to the sriracha sauce. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of sriracha or use a milder hot sauce. Alternatively, omit the sriracha entirely for a milder version.

To make the wings extra crispy, ensure they are patted dry before tossing them in oil and seasonings. You can also add a small amount of baking powder to the seasoning mix to enhance crispiness when cooking.

Comments

Mark Perez

11/13/2022 06:58:21 AM

I find it very easy to cook in the air fryer and believe it will be delicious.

Thomas Scott

09/04/2024 08:05:24 AM

I absolutely adore this recipe. I only made one alteration by cooking them for an extra minute under the grill to achieve a slightly stickier texture.

George Young

05/28/2024 07:09:29 AM

Thanks to the mayonnaise, this sauce turned out extremely creamy. It might be a bit too rich for my taste, but I appreciate the balance of sweet and heat in this recipe. I plan to make it again, reducing the amount of mayo and adding more sweet chili sauce. I also want to experiment with a chili sauce that is thicker and less oily than the one I used. The flavor was excellent overall, and the Sriracha provided just the right amount of spiciness. Overall, it was a delightful recipe to test out!

Kathleen Torres

02/13/2025 09:21:33 AM

I wish there was more chili in it, but it was a hit at my party! Even though I usually only eat chicken breast, everyone else loved them! 👍

Jacob Hernandez

05/26/2025 06:20:37 AM

Thank you ❤️

Dennis Martin

07/05/2024 06:54:24 AM

The mayonnaise-based sauce was absolutely terrible and completely inedible. Unfortunately, I ended up wasting two pounds of chicken that had to be thrown away.

Robert Phillips

02/09/2023 09:32:38 PM

Incredible experience! I recently tried the Boom pasta at a nearby restaurant and it was absolutely fantastic. I was so thrilled to recreate it at home. Due to the unavailability of fresh wings at the two supermarkets I visited, I used frozen wings and drumsticks. It seems like all the fresh wings were already taken for deli and party trays, possibly for the Super Bowl weekend. I also picked up some chicken tenders to try with this recipe. I cooked them in my oven using the air fryer setting, but I believe they would turn out great no matter how you cook them. As they say, the magic lies in the sauce!

Emma Taylor

02/01/2024 11:21:41 PM

Omit the mayonnaise and the wings will resemble the image displayed.

Deborah Wright

09/05/2023 04:38:39 PM

Seems like a simple recipe, but I don't own an air fryer. Can I achieve the same result using an oven instead?

Joseph Taylor

01/07/2023 04:04:10 AM

Season to your preference, more or less. I absolutely adore my air fryer toaster oven!