Get ready to fall in love with the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich, a crunchy, flavorful masterpiece that brings together juicy fried chicken, a creamy-spicy sauce, and fresh, crisp veggies all nestled inside a soft brioche bun. This sandwich isn’t just another meal; it’s a celebration of bold tastes and textures that come together perfectly in every bite. Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual get-together, the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich delivers that crave-worthy combination of heat, sweetness, and freshness that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for capturing the magic of the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich. Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor, texture, and balance, making this recipe both simple and rewarding to prepare.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the sandwich, providing juicy, tender meat when fried to perfection.
- All-purpose flour: Adds a seasoned base layer that helps the coating stick and forms the first crispy layer.
- Panko breadcrumbs: For that unbeatable crunchy texture that gives the sandwich its satisfying bite.
- Large eggs: Acts as glue to hold the flour and breadcrumbs on the chicken for even frying.
- Sriracha sauce: Brings a spirited kick that balances the creaminess of the mayo beautifully.
- Mayonnaise: Provides a rich, smooth base for the spicy sauce that complements the chicken’s crispiness.
- Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to bring harmony to the spicy and savory elements.
- Lime juice: Adds a bright, zesty punch that lifts all the flavors and keeps things fresh.
- Brioche buns: Soft yet sturdy, perfect for holding all those delicious ingredients without falling apart.
- Fresh lettuce and tomato slices: Give the sandwich a refreshing crunch and juicy, vibrant color.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready just in time for the chicken. Set up three separate bowls: one with seasoned all-purpose flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third filled with panko breadcrumbs. This simple setup is your key to achieving the ideal crispy crunch that makes the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich shine.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and dip it first into the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then submerge it into the beaten eggs, which help the crunchy panko breadcrumbs stick perfectly. Finally, press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs until well covered. This triple-layer coating will seal in the juiciness while creating a golden crust.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each breaded chicken breast for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side until its crust is deeply golden and the meat is thoroughly cooked. The result is a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender inside — the heart of the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich experience.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, honey, and lime juice until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. This spicy, creamy sauce is the magic touch that elevates the overall flavor profile and gives the sandwich its signature bang.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
Slice the brioche buns in half and generously spread the bang bang sauce on both the top and bottom pieces. Layer on fresh lettuce and juicy tomato slices for a bright crunch, then top with your perfectly fried chicken breast. Drizzle a bit more sauce on the chicken before closing the sandwich to lock in all those irresistible flavors.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
Garnishes
To add extra freshness and zing, consider garnishing your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich with pickled jalapeños or thinly sliced red onions. These add a delicious tang that cuts through the richness and adds a pop of color, making the sandwich even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Classic choices like crispy French fries, cool coleslaw, or even a zesty cucumber salad pair beautifully with this spicy, savory sandwich. These sides complement the flavors without overpowering them, making the whole meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich open-faced on a toasted bun with extra drizzle of sauce and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions. You can also swap the brioche bun for a sandwich wrap or lettuce leaves for a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To prevent sogginess, store the sauce separately and add it just before eating.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken breasts wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Avoid freezing the sandwich fully assembled to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to help restore its crispy exterior, then assemble your sandwich fresh with sauce and veggies. Avoid microwaving as it may make the breading soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor. Just make sure to pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking and adjust frying time as needed.
How spicy is the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich?
The heat mainly comes from the Sriracha in the sauce. You can adjust the amount to your preference or swap it with a milder chili sauce to make it less spicy but still flavorful.
What can I use instead of brioche buns?
While brioche buns offer a perfect soft and slightly sweet base, you can use other sandwich buns like potato rolls, ciabatta, or even sandwich bread. Just choose something soft that can hold up to the ingredients.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the sandwiches fresh when ready to eat to keep everything crisp and fresh.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely. Swap the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Make sure your other ingredients, like sauces, are certified gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
The Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is truly a gem of comfort food with its vibrant flavors, irresistible crunch, and easy assembly. It’s a delicious way to upgrade your everyday meals and impress anyone lucky enough to take a bite. Once you try making this sandwich at home, I guarantee it will quickly become a go-to favorite that you’ll want to share again and again. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the delicious adventure that is the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich!
PrintBang Bang Chicken Sandwich
Indulge in the irresistible Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich—a mouthwatering delight featuring crispy, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb crust and fried to golden perfection. Each sandwich is generously slathered with a creamy, spicy, and sweet sauce made from mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice, then layered with fresh lettuce and tomato slices on a soft brioche bun. Perfect for game day or weeknight dinners, this sandwich delivers a flavorful crunch in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- Oil for frying (about 1/2 cup)
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Assembly
- 4 brioche buns
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Set up three separate bowls: one with the seasoned all-purpose flour, the next with beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs to create a dredging station.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs to ensure a crispy crust when fried.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each chicken breast for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove and drain on paper towels if needed.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, honey, and lime juice until smooth and well combined, balancing spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the bang bang sauce generously on both the top and bottom halves of the brioche buns. Layer fresh lettuce and tomato slices on the bottom bun, place the fried chicken breast on top, drizzle with more sauce, then close the sandwich with the top bun. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely through without drying out.
- For extra crispiness, double-dip chicken in eggs and breadcrumbs.
- Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- Can be made ahead by preparing the sauce and chicken separately, then assembling just before serving.
- Serve with fries or a side salad for a complete meal.