Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is quick to make and big on flavor, perfect for busy nights.
Crispy chicken bites coated in a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet Bang Bang sauce make for a convenient and flavorful meal.
They blend the simplicity of frozen chicken with the unique taste of homemade sauce.
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe Highlights
- Quick and Easy Air Fryer Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The homemade Bang Bang sauce adds a creamy, spicy, and sweet dimension that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Protein Options (try the same recipe with frozen shrimp)
- Family-Friendly
Ingredient Notes
Please check the recipe card below for a detailed, printable ingredient list.
CHICKEN – You can use several types of frozen chicken. Look for frozen chicken nuggets, frozen chicken bites, or frozen popcorn chicken. Whatever your supermarket offers will work. If you use larger pieces, you may have to adjust the time spent in the air fryer. Always make sure that the chicken has an internal temperature of 165º Fahrenheit.
MAYONNAISE – Acts as the creamy backbone of the Bang Bang sauce, balancing out the heat and adding a smooth texture.
SRIRACHA OR CHILI SAUCE – This is where the “bang” comes in, adding a vibrant kick that can be adjusted to suit your spice preference.
HONEY – Adds a touch of sweetness to contrast the heat, rounding out the sauce flavors beautifully.
RICE VINEGAR – A splash of this brings a bright acidity, enhancing the overall taste profile of the Bang Bang sauce.
How To Make Bang Bang Chicken in the Air Fryer
Please check the printable recipe card below for more detailed instructions.
- Arrange 10-12 frozen chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook at 350º Fahrenheit for 8-12 minutes, tossing halfway for even crispness.
- Mix mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar to create the Bang Bang sauce.
- Drizzle sauce over cooked chicken and serve.
Serving Suggestions
RICE OR GRAINS – Serve with a side of rice or your favorite grain.
LEAFY GREENS – Pair with a simple salad or steamed greens to add a fresh, crunchy contrast to the meal’s richness.
DIPPING SAUCE – Reserve some of the Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping. It’s great for those who can’t get enough of its creamy, spicy goodness.
Storage and Leftovers
STORE – Keep any leftover Bang Bang Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days to maintain its taste and texture.
FREEZE – If you must freeze before adding the sauce, avoid sogginess. Freeze the cooked chicken in a single layer, then transfer it to a container or bag.
REHEAT – Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to return the crispness. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the chicken soggy. If frozen, let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Recipe Success Tips
SAUCE CONSISTENCY – For a smoother or thinner sauce, add a little water or more rice vinegar. Adjust according to your taste preference.
SPICE LEVEL – Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha or chili sauce based on how spicy you like your food. Start with a little and add more as needed.
EVEN COOKING – Shaking or tossing the chicken halfway through cooking is key to getting that all-around crispiness without any soggy spots.
SAUCE TOSSING – If you prefer your chicken to be extra saucy, consider tossing the cooked chicken bites in the sauce instead of drizzling. It coats each piece more thoroughly.
Commonly Asked Questions
I don’t have an air fryer. Can I cook this in the oven?
Sure! Follow the oven directions on your bag of frozen chicken and cook until done and crispy. Add the bang bang sauce and serve warm.
More Easy and Delicious Better-Than-Takeout Recipes
Easy Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients
- 24 ounce-bag frozen chicken bites or frozen popcorn chicken
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoon sriracha or chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ½ teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 350º Fahrenheit.
- Place 10-12 chicken pieces into the air fryer in a single layer, not overcrowding the basket.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, tossing the chicken halfway through for even cooking. Repeat until all of your frozen chicken has been cooked.
- Combine mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Stir until combined.
- After the chicken has been completely cooked, drizzle with the bang bang sauce. Top with chopped chives or green onions, if desired. Serve warm.
Equipment
Notes
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Disclaimer
Cheerful Cook team members are not trained nutritionists or medical professionals. Calorie information and nutritional values are estimates. If you have nutritional concerns, we recommend using a nutritional calculator.
Maike Corbett is the founder and food blogger of Cheerful Cook, a popular recipe website featuring comfort food recipes from the US and Germany. She has been featured in numerous media outlets, including the AP Wire and MSN.