One-Pan Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken is the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and crunch—all delivered in a single skillet for maximum flavor with minimal cleanup. This one-pan wonder is not only visually stunning but also packs layers of taste that will impress family and guests alike. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or an effortless weekend meal, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your home kitchen.

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs (700 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss them in cornstarch until evenly coated. This ensures a crisp exterior once cooked.

2. Sear the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Pour into the skillet and gently heat until warmed through, stirring constantly.

4. Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the chicken before serving. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or a bed of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cook Time

Total: 25 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15 minutes

Servings

Makes approximately 4 servings

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Protein: 28 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 550 mg

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving at high power to prevent the sauce from separating.

Suggestions

• Adjust the sriracha quantity for a milder or spicier version.
• For extra crunch, lightly toast the chicken pieces in the oven for 5 minutes before tossing in the sauce.
• Pair with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a complete meal.

Seasonal Relevance

Bang Bang Chicken is a versatile dish that works year-round. Its light, bright flavors make it perfect for spring and summer dinners, while the richness of the creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with cozy fall and winter meals.

Conclusion

This one-pan Bang Bang Chicken recipe elevates a simple chicken dinner into a flavorful, restaurant-quality experience. Minimal prep, bold flavors, and effortless cleanup make it a weeknight hero or a centerpiece for entertaining. Every bite delivers a balance of creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet notes, creating a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they cook faster and may dry out. Cut them into even, bite-sized pieces and monitor cooking closely.

Q2: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free cornstarch and verify that your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.

Q3: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Heat gently before tossing with freshly cooked chicken.