Print

Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 9 reviews

Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken made with tender bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and tossed in a spicy, creamy bang bang sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic favorite by using the air fryer for a crunchy texture without deep frying.

Ingredients

Chicken Coating

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • ½ cup all purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Non-stick cooking spray or olive oil spray

Bang Bang Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp sriracha
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 3 to 5 minutes to ensure it's hot enough for a crispy chicken finish.
  2. Prepare Coating Stations: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mix of panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece first in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs ensuring full coverage, then coat completely with the breadcrumb mixture. Place breaded pieces on a plate and continue until all chicken pieces are coated.
  4. Air Fry the Chicken: Spray the breaded chicken pieces lightly with non-stick spray. Arrange them in a mostly single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to cook evenly. Chicken is done when golden brown, crisp, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, sugar, and season with salt and pepper to taste until smooth and combined.
  6. Serve: Toss the cooked chicken in the bang bang sauce to coat thoroughly or drizzle the sauce over the chicken. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your crunchy, spicy bang bang chicken!

Notes

  • Ensure your air fryer is well preheated for best crispiness.
  • Feel free to adjust sriracha quantity in the sauce for desired spice level.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
  • Panko breadcrumbs give extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • Lightly spraying chicken with oil helps achieve a golden crispy texture in the air fryer.
  • This recipe is great served with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.