If you’re craving a dish with crispy chicken, bold flavors, and creamy sauce, Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are perfect for you. Inspired by the famous “Bang Bang” sauce, this dish combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also a one-pan wonder, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Preparation
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy coating.
- In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Beat the eggs in another shallow dish.
2. Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken thigh into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, then back into the flour mixture. Press lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the coated chicken thighs. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
5. Combine and Serve
- Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the crispy chicken thighs or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for an extra pop of freshness.
Variations
- Baked Bang Bang Chicken Thighs: Coat the chicken and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Thighs: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour and gluten-free cornstarch for the coating.
Cooking Notes
- Heat Control: Maintain medium-high heat for a crisp crust without burning.
- Sauce Adjustment: Add more sriracha for extra heat or more honey for sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce.
- Pair with steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for balance.
- Top with extra lime wedges for a citrus kick.
Tips
- Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken in the coating the night before for enhanced flavor.
- Leftovers: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 23g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts tend to be less juicy. Consider pounding them to an even thickness for even cooking.
2. Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?
Yes, swap out the mayonnaise for a dairy-free or vegan mayo.
3. How do I make the sauce less spicy?
Reduce the sriracha or omit it entirely for a milder sauce.
Conclusion
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser with their crispy exterior and bold, creamy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or looking for a quick family meal, this dish delivers flavor, texture, and ease. Try it today and bring a bang to your table!