Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Bang Bang Chicken Bites are ultra-crispy, juicy chicken pieces tossed in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce with a perfect balance of sweet heat. This easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer is baked (not fried) and ready in under 35 minutes—ideal for parties, game nights, or a fun family dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tablespoons Sriracha (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lime juice (optional)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. If using, place a wire rack on top and spray with oil.
- Cut chicken breast into 1-inch pieces and pat dry with paper towels. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Set up a breading station: Place flour in a shallow bowl. Beat eggs in a second bowl. In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shake off excess, dip in beaten egg, then press into the panko mixture until fully coated. Arrange on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between pieces.
- Lightly mist chicken pieces with cooking spray.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). For extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely. (Air fryer option: 400°F for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway.)
- While chicken bakes, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and optional lime juice until smooth. Adjust spice and sweetness to taste.
- Let chicken bites cool for 2-3 minutes. Toss with about half the Bang Bang sauce or serve sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crunch, double-dip chicken in egg and panko. Use gluten-free flour and panko for a gluten-free version. Air fryer method yields similar results with less oil. Let chicken rest on a rack after baking to keep it crisp. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 5-6 chicken bites with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 24
Keywords: bang bang chicken, chicken bites, party appetizer, crispy chicken, baked chicken, spicy chicken, easy appetizer, Asian chicken, game day snacks, finger food