The crispy, succulent pieces of Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken are an absolute delight. Imagine biting into tender chicken coated in a cheeky blend of sweet and spicy sauce that dances on your taste buds. With each crunch, the flavors burst forth like confetti at a surprise party, leaving you eager for more.
I remember the first time I made this dish; friends gathered around my kitchen, eyes wide with anticipation. It was one of those nights where laughter filled the air, and the aroma of fried goodness had everyone drooling before we even sat down to eat. The excitement was palpable, and I knew I had stumbled onto something spectacular.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a flavor explosion in every bite
- The vibrant colors make it irresistible on any plate
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it blends sweetness with just enough heat to please everyone
One memorable evening, my best friend nicknamed it “chicken crack” because we just couldn’t stop eating it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work best—perfectly tender and easy to coat.
-
Cornstarch: Essential for that crispy coating; choose finely ground for optimal texture.
-
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add an extra crunch that regular breadcrumbs just can’t match.
-
Garlic Powder: A must-have for depth of flavor; fresh garlic can also work if you prefer.
-
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium is ideal; you’ll want to control the saltiness in your sauce.
-
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is where the magic happens—sweetness meets spice for an unforgettable flavor.
-
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish and balances out the sweetness perfectly.
-
Optional Scallions: For garnish; they add a pop of color and fresh flavor on top!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
**Prep Your Chicken**: Start by trimming any excess fat from your chicken breasts. Cut them into bite-sized pieces—this ensures they cook evenly and quickly in the air fryer.
**Coat Your Chicken**: In one bowl, mix cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat an egg. Dip each chicken piece into the egg then coat well with cornstarch mixture for maximum crunch.
**Panko Time**: Roll each coated chicken piece in panko breadcrumbs until they’re fully covered. This will give you that irresistible crispy texture once cooked.
**Prepare the Sauce**: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice until well combined—this zesty mix is going to elevate your chicken to new heights!
**Air Frying Magic**: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through—be sure to flip halfway for even crispiness.
**Toss & Serve**: Once cooked, transfer the chicken into a large bowl. Drizzle with sauce and toss gently until evenly coated. Serve immediately with scallions sprinkled on top for that gourmet touch!
Now you’ve got yourself some tantalizing Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken that’s ready to impress everyone around you!
You Must Know
- Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is a flavorful delight that brings a spicy twist
- The crispy texture and sweet heat make it irresistible
- Perfect for gatherings, this dish will have your guests buzzing with excitement
- Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, saving you time in the kitchen
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in a zesty sauce. While it marinates, preheat your air fryer to achieve that perfect crispy exterior. Cook the chicken in batches for even browning and avoid overcrowding.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up! Swap out the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter twist or add extra chili flakes if you crave more heat. Fresh herbs like cilantro also add a refreshing touch.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about five minutes to restore that crispy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy air fryer chicken, ensure it’s patted dry before seasoning
- This prevents sogginess and enhances crunchiness
- Avoid overcrowding the fryer basket to ensure even cooking and perfect browning every time
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasonings as needed!
I remember the first time I made Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken for my friends. Their eyes lit up with delight as they took their first bites, declaring it their new favorite dish!
FAQ
What can I serve with Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken?
Pair it with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating for best results.
How do I make the sauce spicier?
Add more Sriracha or chili paste to increase the heat level of your sauce.

Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the crispy, succulent goodness of Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken. Coated in a tantalizing sweet and spicy sauce, each bite delivers an explosion of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy the crunch paired with vibrant colors on your plate—this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken breasts and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- In one bowl, combine cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat an egg.
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg then coat with the cornstarch mixture for maximum crunch.
- Roll each piece in panko breadcrumbs until fully covered.
- Whisk together soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice in a small bowl.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook chicken in a single layer for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Toss cooked chicken in the sauce and serve immediately with optional scallions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For extra crispiness, ensure chicken pieces are patted dry before seasoning. Customize by adding extra chili flakes for heat or swapping mayo for Greek yogurt in the sauce.