Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

A Flavorful, Crispy, and Spicy Dish

Bang Bang Chicken is a popular dish known for its crispy texture and irresistible creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. Traditionally deep-fried, this version takes a skillet approach, making it easier and healthier while still delivering bold flavors. With tender chicken thighs cooked to perfection and coated in the famous Bang Bang sauce, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick – Uses a skillet instead of deep-frying for a faster cooking process.
• Crispy and Juicy – Chicken thighs retain their moisture while developing a delicious crust.
• Bold Flavor – The combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce makes it incredibly addictive.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level and serve with your favorite sides.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

For Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Red pepper flakes

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Season both sides of the chicken evenly.

2. Coat the Chicken

Lightly dredge each chicken thigh in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This helps create a crispy crust when pan-fried.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the skillet and let rest.

4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth and well combined.

5. Coat the Chicken

Drizzle or brush the Bang Bang sauce over the cooked chicken thighs, ensuring an even coating.

6. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately with rice, vegetables, or a side of your choice.

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Recipe Variations

• Spicier Version – Increase the sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Lower-Calorie Option – Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
• Crunchier Coating – Use panko breadcrumbs along with cornstarch for extra crunch.
• Baked Version – Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of pan-frying.
• Air Fryer Method – Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.

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Servings and Cooking Time

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Add sauce after reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?

The spice level depends on the amount of sriracha used. Adjust to your preference for mild or extra spicy.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts tend to cook faster and may dry out.

What sides go well with this dish?

It pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or steamed broccoli.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free cornstarch and check ingredient labels for the sauce.

Can I use a different type of oil for frying?

Yes, avocado oil or peanut oil work well due to their high smoke points.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I make this dish healthier?

Opt for Greek yogurt instead of mayo and air-fry instead of pan-frying.

What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?

You can substitute with a mix of honey and a dash of hot sauce.

Can I double the sauce for extra flavor?

Yes, doubling the sauce is a great way to have extra for dipping or drizzling over rice.

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Conclusion

This Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is an easy, flavorful meal that delivers crispy chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides, customize the heat level, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!

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