Crispy & Spicy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites: A Perfectly Crunchy and Flavorful Snack 🍗🔥🌶️
1. Introduction
If you’re a fan of those irresistibly crispy and spicy chicken bites, you’re in luck! Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Bites are a fantastic alternative to traditional fried chicken, offering all the crunch and flavor with less oil and fuss. These spicy bang bang chicken bites are perfect for parties, snacks, or a quick weeknight dinner. Using your air fryer makes the process faster and healthier, ensuring a tender interior with a satisfyingly crispy exterior. Ready to learn how to make this delicious dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!
2. Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Bites
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil mister
For the spicy bang bang sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Spicy Bang Bang Chicken
Preparation of Chicken Pieces
Start by cutting your chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the coating adhere better.
Preparing the Breading Station
In one bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Dipping and Coating the Chicken
Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat generously with panko breadcrumbs. Place coated chicken on a plate and repeat until all pieces are prepared.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the coated chicken bites with cooking spray to enhance crispiness. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not touch. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar until smooth. Adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired.
Combining the Chicken and Sauce
Once the chicken bites are crispy and cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Toss with the spicy bang bang sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately for maximum crunch and flavor.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Crispy Chicken Bites
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, avoiding the microwave which can make the coating soggy.
5. Serving Suggestions for Your Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Serve these crispy Bang Bang Chicken bites with a side of steamed rice or crunchy vegetables for a complete meal. They’re perfect as an appetizer with a side of zesty citrus shrimp salad or as part of a snack platter. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.
6. FAQs about Crispy & Spicy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully as they tend to stay juicy and flavorful. Just adapt cooking time if necessary.
What’s a good substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?
If you prefer a dairy-free version or want a different flavor, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative, though it will alter the taste slightly.
How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?
Overall, the process takes about 30-35 minutes, including prep and air frying time. The recipe is quick and perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs to enjoy a gluten-free version of these spicy chicken bites.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Air fryer – For crispy, oil-free cooking that makes dishes like crispy chicken bites easy and healthy.
- Mixing bowls – A set of versatile bowls to prepare your breading stations effortlessly.
- Baking or silicone brushes – Ideal for spray oil application to achieve that perfect crispiness.
- Measuring spoons and cups – Precise measurements ensure perfect seasoning and sauce ratios.
Investing in high-quality kitchen tools can elevate your cooking experience and help you make restaurant-quality dishes at home!
8. Related Air Fryer Chicken Recipes
If you enjoyed making and eating these crispy chicken bites, explore other air fryer chicken recipes on our site, including juicy tender chicken, fried chicken alternatives, and more exciting dishes.
For fans of spicy chicken, check out our Sweet and Spicy Peach BBQ Chicken Bake for a different flavor profile or Southern Fried Chicken for a comforting classic.
9. Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like biting into crispy, spicy chicken bites that are quick to prepare and healthier thanks to the air fryer. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or main dish, Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Bites provide bold flavors and satisfying crunch in every bite. Customizable, easy, and flavorful, this recipe is a must-try for any chicken lover. Happy frying!
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Crispy & Spicy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Enjoy these crispy and spicy air fryer bang bang chicken bites, a perfect healthy snack or appetizer with a flavorful bang bang sauce. Made with tender chicken pieces coated in crunchy panko breadcrumbs and tossed in a spicy mayo-based sauce, these bites are quick to prepare and ideal for parties, family dinners, or game day snacking.
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil mister
For the spicy bang bang sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions
- Start by cutting your chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper; in another, beat the eggs; in a third, place the panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour, then dip into beaten eggs, and coat with panko breadcrumbs. Place on a plate.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray.
- Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar to create the bang bang sauce. Adjust spice level as desired.
- Once cooked, toss the crispy chicken bites in the spicy bang bang sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately for maximum crunch and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Spraying with oil enhances crispiness—use a light hand to avoid sogginess.
- Adjust sriracha amount based on preferred spice level.
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) to retain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American, Asian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten-Free option available with gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pieces
- Calories: 320 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg