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Easy and quick Bang Bang Chicken is a 30-minute recipe and a must-try for summer. Refreshing cucumber topped with tender chicken and evenly coated with a tangy, savory sesame sauce that is utterly delicious and satisfying to enjoy.
Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
Bang Bang Chicken, originating from Sichuan cuisine, features tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, fiery sauce that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight. With a combination of garlic, sesame paste, soy sauce, and a touch of Sichuan pepper, this recipe brings together the perfect balance of heat and savory goodness.
I love Sichuan cuisines, they are absolutely mouthwatering and delicious, such as Szechuan beef, Sichuan red oil wontons and spicy Sichuan noodles.
Why This Recipe Works
This easy chicken recipe is quick to make and is great to enjoy all season long, especially during the hot summer. While Bang Bang Chicken is known for its spiciness, the heat is well-balanced. The combination of Sichuan pepper powder and chili oil provides a tingling sensation without overwhelming the palate.
All ingredients are accessible from local grocery stores or Asian supermarkets. Plus, it’s effortless to prepare, and delicious outcomes contribute to its widespread popularity.
It’s also a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, a main dish alongside steamed rice and noodles, or even a sandwich or wraps. It’s perfectly served for any occasion.
Recipe Ingredients
This mouthwatering dish calls for 2 main ingredients and a handful of seasoning and spices for the sauce.
- Chicken thighs
- Japanese cucumber
The homemade rich sesame sauce requires the following ingredients:
- Garlic
- Sesame paste
- Water
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Sugar
- Sichuan pepper powder
- Chili oil
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients.
How To Make Bang Bang Chicken
The effortless preparation and guaranteed taste make it a must-try recipe for this summer.
First, cook the chicken for approximately 10 minutes. Remove from the saucepan and let them cool slightly. Cut the chicken into small pieces or shred them.
Next, prepare the sauce by mixing well the garlic, sesame paste, water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, Sichuan pepper powder, and chili oil in a small bowl.
Finally, plate and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips
For the best result, please follow my tips below.
- You can use either chicken thigh or chicken breast in this recipe. However, I recommend using chicken thighs since the meat remains tender and juicy after cooking.
- Make sure the meat is fully cooked. Bring the water to a boil and cook the chicken for about 10 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Choose either Japanese cucumber or Persian cucumber for the best taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can cook the chicken ahead of time. Let the meat cool and cut into small pieces. Store the chicken meat in an airtight container and refrigerate them before serving.
You may also prepare the sauce in advance and store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Just remember to stir it before using it, as some separation may occur.
Plate the chicken and cucumber, and drizzle the sauce over before serving. Warm the chicken meat in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes before plating if you prefer a hot dish. Bang bang chicken can be served either warm or cold.
Yes, you can use a different type of nut butter as a substitute for sesame paste in Bang Bang Chicken, such as peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter.
When substituting with a different nut butter, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the sauce may vary slightly from the traditional sesame paste-based version. Adjust the quantities and taste as you go, and consider adding a small amount at a time until you achieve the desired flavor profile.
This recipe has 341 calories per serving.
What To Serve With Bang Bang Chicken
For an easy and wholesome Chinese weeknight dinner, I recommend the following recipes:
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Other Recipes You Might Like
Bang Bang Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb (500 grams) chicken thighs , skinless, boneless
- 2 Japanese cucumbers, shredded
Sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced or ground
- 1 teaspoon sesame paste
- 2 tablespoon water
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 pinch Sichuan pepper powder
- 2 tablespoons chili oil
Instructions
- In a saucepan, add the chicken thighs and enough water to cover the meat. Bring to a boil and cook the chicken for approximately 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the saucepan and let it cool slightly. Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces or shred it, depending on your preference. Set aside.
- Whisk together garlic, sesame paste, water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, Sichuan pepper powder, and chili oil in a small bowl. Adjust the amount of chili oil to your desired level of spiciness. Set aside.
- On a serving dish, arrange a bed of shredded cucumbers at the bottom. Place the cooked chicken pieces on top of the cucumbers. Generously pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added freshness and visual appeal.
Notes
- You can use either chicken thigh or chicken breast in this recipe. However, I recommend using chicken thighs since the meat remains tender and juicy after cooking.
- Make sure the meat is fully cooked. Bring the water to a boil and cook the chicken for about 10 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Choose either Japanese cucumber or Persian cucumber for the best taste.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Hello, Question
Is sesame paste the same as Tahini?
Any sub for the Sichuan pepper powder , I do not have this. Which brand of this do you recommend?
Thanks
Yes, you can use Tahihi as a substitute for sesame paste. For the Sichuan pepper powder, you may just skip it if you cannot find it, or use black pepper instead.
What are Japanese cucumbers? Can’t get them here, or at least not where I live.
Japanese cucumbers are also known as kyuri. You can also use Persian cucumbers (sometimes known as English cucumbers).