Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites – The Ultimate Recipe Guide

Craving something crispy, spicy, and irresistibly delicious? Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites are the perfect answer. These bite-sized chicken pieces are coated in a crunchy panko crust, air-fried to golden perfection, and tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy bang bang sauce.

Using an air fryer instead of deep frying makes this dish healthier, while still achieving a crispy texture. Whether you’re making these for a quick snack, appetizer, or dinner, this recipe is simple and packed with flavor.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

• What bang bang chicken is and why it’s so popular
• How to achieve a crispy coating using the air fryer
• Step-by-step instructions for making the best bang bang chicken bites
• Pro tips for extra crunch
• Answers to frequently asked questions about air frying

Looking for more comforting desserts to enjoy after dinner? Check out this delicious Chokecherry Pudding Recipe for a unique and flavorful treat.

What is Bang Bang Chicken?

Origins of Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken has an interesting history that dates back to Sichuan, China. Traditionally, it consists of shredded, poached chicken tossed in a spicy, nutty sauce made from sesame paste, soy sauce, garlic, and chili oil. The name “bang bang” comes from the wooden sticks used to tenderize the meat before shredding it.

Over time, Western adaptations of bang bang chicken became popular, particularly in the United States. The modern version typically features crispy, battered chicken bites, coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. This version was made famous by Bonefish Grill, where it remains a signature dish.

Why Air Fry Bang Bang Chicken?

Traditional bang bang chicken is either deep-fried or pan-fried, but air frying has gained popularity because it:

• Uses less oil, making it a healthier alternative
• Creates a crispy texture similar to deep frying
• Cooks faster, reducing overall preparation time
• Minimizes mess, since there’s no hot oil splatter

This air fryer version of bang bang chicken bites gives you the best of both worlds—a crunchy coating with a juicy interior, all while being light and flavorful.

What Makes Bang Bang Chicken Bites So Addictive?

The secret to bang bang chicken bites lies in two things:

1. The crispy coating – A perfect combination of flour, egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs that delivers crunch in every bite.
2. The bang bang sauce – A creamy, spicy, sweet sauce that perfectly complements the crispy chicken.

Bang Bang Chicken vs. Other Crispy Chicken Dishes

How does bang bang chicken compare to other crispy chicken recipes?

Chicken Dish	Cooking Method	Key Sauce	Flavor Profile
Bang Bang Chicken Bites	Air-fried or deep-fried	Bang bang sauce (mayo, sweet chili, Sriracha)	Sweet, spicy, creamy
Buffalo Chicken Bites	Air-fried or baked	Buffalo sauce (hot sauce, butter)	Spicy, tangy
Korean Fried Chicken	Double-fried	Gochujang-based sauce	Sweet, spicy, sticky
Chicken Nuggets	Deep-fried or air-fried	Various dips (BBQ, honey mustard)	Mild, crunchy

Bang bang chicken stands out because of its signature creamy sauce, which has the perfect balance of sweet heat and tanginess.

Looking for more comforting chicken recipes? Check out this delicious Chicken and Gravy Recipe for a rich and hearty meal option.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites

To achieve crispy, golden-brown chicken bites with a flavorful, creamy, and spicy bang bang sauce, you need the right combination of ingredients. Below is a detailed breakdown of everything you need for this recipe.

Main Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Bites

For the Chicken Bites:

These ingredients create a crispy, well-seasoned coating while keeping the chicken juicy on the inside.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast – Cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier result.
• 1 cup buttermilk – Helps tenderize the chicken and enhances flavor.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Essential for achieving a light and crispy texture.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the coating.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle savory depth.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – Gives a mild smoky flavor and golden color.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Helps season the coating.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of heat.
• 1 large egg – Acts as a binding agent to hold the coating together.
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray – Helps create a golden, crispy crust without deep frying.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

This sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce is the highlight of the dish.

• ½ cup mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce – Provides the signature sweet and tangy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha – Adds heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional) – Balances the heat with a hint of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon lime juice – Adds a touch of acidity for freshness.

Optional Garnishes for Extra Flavor

To take your dish to the next level, consider adding:

• Chopped green onions – For a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• Sesame seeds – Adds a slight nutty crunch.
• Fresh cilantro – Complements the sweet and spicy flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Ingredient	Substitution	Reason
Buttermilk	Whole milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice	Works as a homemade tenderizer
Panko breadcrumbs	Crushed cornflakes	Adds extra crispiness
Mayonnaise	Greek yogurt	A lower-fat alternative
Sweet chili sauce	Honey + Sriracha	Creates a similar balance of sweet and spicy
All-purpose flour	Almond flour	A gluten-free option

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to put everything together. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create crispy, golden-brown chicken bites with a delicious sweet and spicy bang bang sauce.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Cut the Chicken – Slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces) to ensure even cooking.
2. Marinate in Buttermilk – Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and coat them with buttermilk. Let them soak for 15-30 minutes to tenderize the meat and add flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations

Set up three separate bowls:

1. Bowl 1 – Flour Mixture:
   • Mix ½ cup all-purpose flour
   • Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder
   • Add ½ teaspoon onion powder
   • Add ½ teaspoon paprika
   • Add ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper
2. Bowl 2 – Egg Wash:
   • Whisk 1 large egg with 1 tablespoon water to help the coating stick.
3. Bowl 3 – Panko Breadcrumbs:
   • Place 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for the final crispy layer.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Remove chicken pieces from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
2. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Dip into the egg wash, ensuring an even coat.
4. Roll in panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so the crumbs stick well.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken

1. Preheat the Air Fryer – Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it heat for 3-5 minutes.
2. Arrange the Chicken Bites – Place the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
3. Spray with Cooking Oil – Lightly mist the chicken with olive oil spray for extra crispiness.
4. Cook for 10-12 Minutes –
   • Flip halfway through cooking (around the 5-minute mark).
   • Chicken is ready when golden brown and crispy.
5. Check for Doneness – Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the creamy, spicy sauce:

1. In a bowl, combine:
   • ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
   • ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
   • 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
   • 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
   • 1 teaspoon lime juice for a tangy kick
2. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

1. Coat the Chicken – Once the chicken bites are crispy and golden, transfer them to a mixing bowl and drizzle with the bang bang sauce.
2. Garnish – Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor.
3. Serve Immediately – Enjoy these crispy air fryer bang bang chicken bites while hot!

Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken Bites

Achieving perfectly crispy chicken bites in the air fryer requires a few key techniques. If you want a crunchy, golden-brown crust without deep frying, follow these expert tips.

1. Use Panko Breadcrumbs Instead of Regular Breadcrumbs

• Why? Panko breadcrumbs are larger and flakier, creating an airier and crunchier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Alternative: If you don’t have panko, use crushed cornflakes for a similar effect.

2. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket

• Why? If chicken pieces are too close together, air circulation is reduced, leading to soggy spots.
• Fix: Arrange chicken bites in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Cook in batches if necessary.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer for Maximum Crispiness

• Why? A preheated air fryer instantly starts crisping the coating, preventing sogginess.
• How? Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes before adding the chicken.

4. Lightly Spray with Oil Before Cooking

• Why? A light mist of olive oil or avocado oil spray helps achieve a golden, crispy finish.
• How? Spray a thin layer of oil over the breaded chicken just before air frying.
• Avoid: Using too much oil can make the coating greasy instead of crispy.

5. Flip Halfway Through Cooking

• Why? Flipping the chicken at the 5-6 minute mark ensures even crisping on all sides.
• How? Use tongs to gently flip each piece over.

6. Increase Heat at the End for Extra Crunch

• Why? A final temperature boost helps the coating crisp up even more.
• How? In the last 2-3 minutes, increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (205°C) for a crispier exterior.

7. Use Cornstarch for an Extra Crunchy Coating

• Why? Cornstarch creates a light, crispy crust when combined with flour.
• How? Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch into your flour mixture before breading.

8. Let the Chicken Rest Before Tossing in Sauce

• Why? Tossing the chicken in sauce immediately after air frying can make it soggy.
• Fix: Let the chicken sit for 1-2 minutes before adding the sauce. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

9. Store Leftovers the Right Way

• Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
  • Air fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes
  • Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes
  • Avoid microwaving, as it will make the coating soft.

How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken – Variations

While the classic Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites recipe is delicious, there are many ways to customize it based on dietary preferences, spice levels, and cooking methods. Below are some fun variations to try.

1. Low-Carb/Keto Bang Bang Chicken

For a low-carb version, swap out the traditional breading while keeping the same bold flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Instead of flour & panko: Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a crispy, keto-friendly coating.
• Instead of sweet chili sauce: Use a combination of sugar-free hot sauce and monk fruit sweetener to maintain the sweet and spicy balance.
• Instead of honey: Use sugar-free syrup or omit it entirely.

Cooking Instructions:

• Follow the same air frying method as the original recipe, but use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
• Keep the temperature at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Why it works: This version keeps the chicken crispy and flavorful while cutting down on carbs.

2. Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bites

If you love heat, turn up the spice level in both the breading and sauce.

How to Add More Spice:

• In the breading: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes to the flour mixture.
• In the sauce:
  • Increase Sriracha from 1 tablespoon to 2 tablespoons.
  • Add ½ teaspoon ghost pepper powder for an extra fiery kick.

Serving Idea:

• Pair with cooling dips like ranch or a yogurt-based sauce to balance the heat.

Why it works: This variation intensifies the heat factor while keeping the same creamy, sweet balance.

3. Gluten-Free Bang Bang Chicken

For a gluten-free version, swap out wheat-based ingredients for gluten-free alternatives.

Ingredient Swaps:

• Flour: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch.
• Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Sauce: Make sure to use gluten-free mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce (check labels).

Cooking Instructions:

• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Why it works: This keeps the same crispy texture without gluten-based ingredients.

4. Baked Bang Bang Chicken (Oven Method)

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make crispy bang bang chicken bites in the oven.

How to Bake Instead of Air Frying:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
3. Arrange breaded chicken bites on the rack (this allows heat to circulate).
4. Lightly spray with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Why it works: Baking at high heat with a wire rack mimics the crispiness of an air fryer.

5. Dairy-Free Bang Bang Chicken

To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace dairy-based ingredients with alternatives.

Dairy-Free Swaps:

• Instead of buttermilk: Use coconut milk or almond milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
• Instead of mayonnaise: Use vegan mayo or dairy-free Greek yogurt.

Cooking Instructions:

• Follow the same air fryer method, using dairy-free swaps.

Why it works: These substitutes keep the flavor and texture intact without using dairy products.

6. Bang Bang Shrimp (Seafood Version)

This variation swaps chicken for shrimp, inspired by the Bonefish Grill Bang Bang Shrimp dish.

How to Make It:

1. Use large shrimp, peeled and deveined.
2. Skip the buttermilk marinade – shrimp don’t need it.
3. Follow the same breading process with flour, egg, and panko.
4. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Toss in bang bang sauce and serve.

Why it works: Shrimp cooks faster than chicken, making this a quick, delicious alternative.

7. Vegetarian Bang Bang Cauliflower

For a meatless option, replace chicken with cauliflower florets.

How to Make It:

1. Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
2. Coat with flour, egg wash, and panko just like chicken.
3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Toss in bang bang sauce and serve hot.

Why it works: Cauliflower gets crispy and flavorful, making it an excellent plant-based alternative.

FAQs – Answering Your Air Fryer Questions

If you’re new to air frying or just want to perfect your Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

How do you cook bang bang chicken in the air fryer?

To cook crispy bang bang chicken bites in the air fryer:

1. Bread the chicken – Dip in flour, then egg wash, then panko breadcrumbs.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
3. Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
4. Lightly spray with oil for a crispy finish.
5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. Toss in bang bang sauce and serve hot.

How long do you cook chicken bites in the air fryer?

• Fresh chicken bites: 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C)
• Frozen chicken bites: 15-18 minutes at 380°F (193°C)

Always flip halfway through cooking for even crispiness.

How to crisp up chicken in an air fryer?

To get the crispiest chicken:
✔ Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
✔ Preheat the air fryer before cooking.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the basket—air needs to circulate.
✔ Lightly spray with oil before air frying.
✔ Increase temperature to 400°F (205°C) for the last 2-3 minutes.

How long does it take to cook frozen chicken bites in the air fryer?

• Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
• Place frozen chicken bites in a single layer.
• Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.

Can you put foil in an air fryer?

Yes, but with precautions:
✔ Use foil only in the basket—not covering air vents.
✔ Avoid foil when cooking acidic foods like tomatoes or citrus (it reacts with aluminum).
✔ Poke small holes in the foil for better airflow.

How to make crispy oven chicken instead of air frying?

If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the chicken in the oven:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet for even crisping.
3. Arrange breaded chicken bites in a single layer.
4. Lightly spray with oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.

How do you make chicken bites crispy without breading in the air fryer?

If you want crispy chicken bites without breading, try this method:

✔ Pat chicken dry before cooking (moisture prevents crisping).
✔ Toss in cornstarch or baking powder for a crispy crust.
✔ Cook at 400°F (205°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway.
✔ Lightly spray with oil before air frying.

How do you know when chicken bites are done?

✔ Internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) (use a meat thermometer).
✔ The outside should be golden brown and crispy.
✔ Cut one piece open—there should be no pink inside.

Can you put parchment paper in an air fryer?

Yes, but follow these tips:
✔ Use air fryer-safe parchment paper with perforated holes for airflow.
✔ Don’t preheat with parchment paper inside (it can fly up and touch the heating element).
✔ Place food on top of the parchment paper to hold it down.

Conclusion

Making Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites is quick, easy, and healthier than traditional frying. With a crispy coating and a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, these bites are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or meal. Try them today for a crunchy, flavorful experience!