Description
Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
This sandwich packs a flavorful punch with its crispy chicken and sweet-spicy sauce—perfectly satisfying!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 chicken breasts
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup flour
1 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
½ cup sour cream
1 tbsp chili sauce
1 tbsp maple syrup
Preparation:
Marinate chicken in buttermilk for 2 hours.
Coat in flour seasoned with black pepper.
Fry chicken strips until crispy.
Spread sauce on buns and add pickles for extra tang.
#BoldAndBang
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich.
- Begin by placing two chicken breasts in a shallow dish. Pour one cup of buttermilk over them, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate to marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum tenderness.
- In a separate bowl, combine one cup of all-purpose flour with one teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each breast thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even, clumpy coating that will become extra crispy.
- Heat a neutral oil, like canola or vegetable, in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated chicken breasts. Fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the exterior is deep golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain and stay crisp.
- While the chicken rests, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of sour cream, one tablespoon of chili sauce (like Sriracha), and one tablespoon of pure maple syrup until smooth.
- Lightly toast your brioche or potato buns. Spread a generous amount of the Bang Bang sauce on both the top and bottom bun.
- Place the crispy chicken breast on the bottom bun. Add crunchy pickles, shredded lettuce, or sliced cabbage for texture and tang. Top with the other bun and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty sandwich is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Serve it with a simple green salad, crispy french fries, sweet potato wedges, or a cool, creamy coleslaw to balance the spicy-sweet flavors. For a picnic or party, slice the sandwich in half and secure it with a food pick.
How-to Summary
Marinate chicken in buttermilk, coat in seasoned flour, and deep-fry until golden and cooked through. Whisk together sour cream, chili sauce, and maple syrup for the signature sauce. Assemble on a toasted bun with pickles for a crispy, spicy-sweet sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it? Yes, for a lighter version. After coating, place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through and crispy.
What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk? Make a quick substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to one cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
How can I make the sauce spicier or milder? Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili sauce. For more complexity, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time? You can marinate the chicken overnight. For best results, coat and fry the chicken just before serving to maintain maximum crispiness.
What’s the best bun to use? A soft but sturdy bun like brioche, potato, or a classic sesame seed bun works best to hold the juicy chicken and sauce without falling apart.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Marination: The buttermilk is crucial for tender, juicy chicken. Don’t rush this step.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in greasy, soggy chicken. Fry in batches.
- Not Letting the Chicken Rest: Let the fried chicken drain on a wire rack, not on paper towels. This prevents the bottom from steaming and getting soggy.
- Using Cold Sauce Ingredients: For a smoother, more cohesive sauce, ensure your sour cream is at room temperature before whisking.
Conclusion
The Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is a triumph of textures and flavors, combining crispy, juicy chicken with a uniquely addictive sweet-spicy sauce. While it requires a few key steps—marinating, proper frying, and sauce balancing—the result is a restaurant-quality sandwich you can proudly make at home. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master this bold and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
