Quick and Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken is a perfect weeknight meal when you want something spicy, crispy, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken comes out golden and crunchy thanks to the air fryer, and the bang bang sauce adds a sweet, tangy, and creamy kick that makes every bite memorable.
I love making this recipe because it feels fancy but is really simple to pull together. I usually keep the sauce ingredients on hand and use boneless chicken pieces to make it fast. It’s one of those dishes that makes dinner feel special, even when life is busy. Plus, I appreciate that using the air fryer keeps it lighter than frying in oil.
My favorite way to serve this bang bang chicken is over a bed of steamed rice and some crunchy veggies on the side, like snap peas or shredded cabbage. It’s also great wrapped up in a tortilla for a quick lunch. I always find myself craving it again shortly after making it, and it’s become a go-to recipe when I want something tasty and easy to whip up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work well. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner. If you prefer turkey, ground turkey chunks also fry up nicely.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light, crispy coating. For a gluten-free option, try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Regular breadcrumbs work but may not be as crunchy.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds extra flavor and crunch but is optional. You can skip it or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste if dairy-free.
Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients: Mayonnaise is the base here—use vegan mayo for a dairy-free version. Thai sweet chili sauce adds sweet heat; if unavailable, try mixing honey with sriracha for a quick homemade twist.
How Do You Get Crispy Chicken in the Air Fryer?
Getting that perfect crispy crust without deep-frying can be tricky but the air fryer makes it easier.
- Coat chicken pieces evenly with beaten egg first to help the panko stick well.
- Mix panko with parmesan and seasonings for extra crunch and flavor.
- Arrange chicken in a single layer without overcrowding to let hot air circulate properly.
- Lightly spray or brush the chicken with oil before cooking to promote golden crispiness.
- Flip the chicken halfway through cooking so both sides brown evenly.
Following these steps will give you crunchy, juicy chicken every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I love using it because it cooks the chicken evenly and makes it crispy without much oil.
- Mixing bowls – for preparing the coating and sauce, making everything easy to handle.
- Shallow dish or plate – to hold the seasoned panko mixture for breading the chicken.
- Whisk – to stir up the egg wash and sauce smoothly.
- Cooking spray or a small brush – helps lightly coat the chicken for extra crispiness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more flavorful bites.
- Add a dash of curry powder or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix for a different smoky taste.
- Stir in chopped pineapple or mango into the sauce for a fruity twist.
- Skim added garlic or ginger into the bang bang sauce to boost flavor and aroma.
Quick and Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray or a little oil for spraying
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (for garnish)
Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce (adjust sweetness/spiciness to taste)
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (for heat)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. So in just about 25 minutes, you can have a delicious crispy chicken dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will be the crispy coating for your chicken.
2. Prepare the Egg Wash:
In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. This helps the panko mixture stick to the chicken pieces.
3. Bread the Chicken:
Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then coat it thoroughly with the panko mixture. Place coated chicken pieces on a plate or tray, ready for cooking.
4. Preheat and Air Fry:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a bit of oil. Place the chicken in a single layer without overcrowding — cook in batches if needed. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the cooked chicken in a serving bowl or plate. Drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over the chicken and sprinkle with fresh chopped chives or green onions. Serve immediately, and enjoy it on its own, or alongside rice or a fresh salad for a quick, delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before breading and air frying. Thaw it safely in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prep and bread the chicken in advance, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. For best crispiness, air fry right before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to keep it crispy.
What Can I Substitute for Thai Sweet Chili Sauce?
If you don’t have Thai sweet chili sauce, mix honey or sugar with a bit of sriracha and a splash of vinegar or lime juice for a similar sweet-spicy flavor.
