Bang Bang Chicken Tenderloin
This Bang Bang Chicken Tenderloin recipe is your new go-to for a crispy, spicy, and creamy dish that’s sure to wow anyone you serve it to. Tender chicken is coated in a crispy, golden exterior and tossed in a rich, tangy sauce that’s got the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Whether you're serving it for dinner or as a fun appetizer, this recipe is easy to follow, quick to make, and sure to impress. It’s also fully customizable for different spice levels or dietary preferences—so feel free to make it your own!
Ingredients
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Tenderloin
- Here’s everything you’ll need to make these mouth-watering Bang Bang Chicken Tenderloins:
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins You can use chicken breasts if you prefer, just cut them into smaller strips
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Gluten-free flour works as a substitute
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Regular paprika will work if you don’t have smoked
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup buttermilk You can substitute with regular milk mixed with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs Regular breadcrumbs are fine too, but panko gives it a better crunch
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce Adjust the amount for more or less heat
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar You can swap with apple cider vinegar if needed
- Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand but these are the basics that will give you that perfect crispy, creamy, and spicy chicken tenderloin experience!
Instructions
How to Cook Bang Bang Chicken Tenderloin: Step-by-Step Guide
- Alright, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make these crispy, spicy, and totally delicious Bang Bang Chicken Tenderloins.
Prep the Chicken
- Start by patting the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps them get nice and crispy later. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Nothing fancy—just a little love.
Set Up the Dipping Station
Grab three shallow bowls.
- In the first bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In the second bowl, mix buttermilk and egg.
- In the third bowl, add panko breadcrumbs. Now you’re ready for some chicken-dipping action!
Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken tenderloin into the flour mixture first, then the buttermilk mix, and finally, the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs on gently to make sure they stick. We’re going for crispy, not soggy!
Fry It Up
- Heat up a few tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot (but not smoking—don’t want to burn our crispy dream!), add the chicken tenderloins. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. You’re looking for that perfect crunch!
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- While the chicken’s cooking, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a bowl. Taste and adjust the heat level if you need more kick. You know I like it spicy, but you do you!
Toss & Serve
- Once your chicken is crispy and cooked through, toss it gently in that creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce. Don’t be shy—coating them in that sauce is the best part!
Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve the chicken tenderloins with a side of your favorite veggies or rice. Watch everyone devour these crispy bites like there’s no tomorrow.
- And there you have it—Bang Bang Chicken Tenderloin, ready to rock your taste buds! Enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by reducing the amount of sriracha in the sauce.
- For a lighter option, bake the chicken instead of frying.
- Can be made ahead by prepping the chicken and sauce and storing them separately in the fridge.