Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken recipe is your new go-to for a quick weeknight meal that's bursting with flavor. Forget complicated cooking techniques – this recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned pros looking for a flavorful, healthy, and quick dinner idea. Get ready to experience the crispy, juicy perfection of air fryer chicken, tossed in a creamy, spicy, and addictive Bang Bang sauce! This easy recipe is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha (or more, to taste)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
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Air Fry the Chicken: Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together all the Bang Bang sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness.
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Combine and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to the bowl with the Bang Bang sauce. Toss gently to coat the chicken evenly. Serve immediately over rice, quinoa, or with your favorite sides.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: This ensures even cooking and crispy chicken. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the cooking time: Depending on your air fryer and the thickness of your chicken pieces, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Get creative with your sides: This delicious chicken pairs perfectly with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Bang Bang sauce for extra heat.
- Make it creamy: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the Bang Bang sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
- Add some crunch: Top the finished dish with chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, or green onions for added texture and flavor.
- Use different protein: This sauce is also amazing with shrimp, tofu, or even pork.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This air fryer Bang Bang chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meals repertoire. It's a simple, delicious, and satisfying dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight. Enjoy!