Name: Bang Bang Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; vegetable oil (for frying); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp rice vinegar; 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine); 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup green onions (sliced); 1 tbsp sesame seeds; fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of flavors that marries the creamy, spicy essence of the iconic Bang Bang sauce with the heartiness of pasta. This dish has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts with its perfect balance of textures—from crispy chicken to silky pasta, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

This recipe weaves together elements of Asian-inspired cuisine with the comfort of Italian pasta, transforming a traditional meal into something innovative and exciting. The crispy chicken, enveloped in a luscious sauce, pairs beautifully with perfectly cooked pasta, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something delicious, Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is a must-try.

Why make this recipe

Creating Bang Bang Chicken Pasta at home allows you to customize every element according to your taste preferences. The combination of crispy, coated chicken pieces enveloped in a delightful sauce can elevate your meal to new heights. Moreover, this dish is a wonderful way to incorporate more protein into your diet while enjoying the comforting nature of pasta. The ingredients are accessible, and the preparation involves a straightforward process that will make even novice cooks feel accomplished.

This recipe is not just about the satisfying crunch of the chicken or the creamy sauce; it’s also about the explosion of flavors that come together in every bite. The sweet and spicy notes of the Bang Bang sauce contrast beautifully with the savory aspects of the chicken and the pasta for an experience that dances on the palate. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds—and possibly thirds—as the dish captivates your senses.

How to make Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

Making Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is a rewarding process that begins with preparing the pasta. Begin by cooking your choice of pasta according to the package instructions to achieve that perfect al dente texture. An important tip is to remember to reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining, as this will help in blending the ingredients later on.

Next, you’ll work on the chicken. In a mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful coating. Toss your chicken pieces in this mixture, ensuring they are fully coated, which will give them a lovely crunch when fried. The frying step is essential; you want the oil heated to the right temperature for the perfect golden coloring and texture.

As you prepare the Bang Bang sauce, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a bowl. This mixture is the star of the dish, delivering a creamy and tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the chicken and pasta. Once you have everything prepped, it’s time to bring the components together. After sautéing garlic in butter, the next step is to toss in the cooked pasta alongside the sauce. The reserved pasta water will play a key role in achieving the desired texture for your dish.

Finally, gently fold in the crispy chicken pieces, ensuring every ingredient is coated in that delicious sauce. Finish the dish with a garnish of sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro, and serve immediately while the chicken is still crunchy and the pasta warm.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
vegetable oil (for frying)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp rice vinegar
12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/4 cup green onions (sliced)
1 tbsp sesame seeds
fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Directions

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set cooked pasta aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss chicken pieces in the mixture until each piece is thoroughly coated.
Heat 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to 350°F. Test readiness by dropping in a small pinch of coating mixture – it should sizzle immediately. Fry chicken in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar to create the bang bang sauce.
Wipe the skillet clean and melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Add cooked pasta and bang bang sauce to the skillet. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until sauce reaches desired consistency. Gently fold in crispy chicken pieces.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately while chicken is still crispy.

Time Breakdown

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

How to serve Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is best served hot directly from the skillet, allowing diners to enjoy the contrast of the crispy chicken and the creamy pasta dressed in the flavorful sauce. For a restaurant-style presentation, you can serve the dish in a large bowl or plate it individually. Garnishing with additional green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds fresh flavors that brighten the dish.

Pairing this dish with a light salad or steamed vegetables can round out the meal, while a chilled beverage like iced tea or a light white wine can complement its rich flavors, ensuring a delightful dining experience. This pasta dish can also be an eye-catching centerpiece for a dinner party, enticing guests to indulge in a comforting yet elevated meal.

How to store Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

To properly store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Pasta, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help maintain both the texture and flavor of the dish as moisture will not build up inside the container. Refrigerate the pasta for up to three days, but for optimal quality, it’s best consumed within two days.

When reheating, it’s advisable to add a splash of water or a touch of additional mayonnaise to refresh the sauce and keep it from becoming dry. You can use a microwave or a skillet over low heat to warm up the dish. Keep in mind that the texture of the crispy chicken may change once refrigerated, but it will still retain the rich flavor that defines this tasty meal.

Tips to make Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

One valuable tip for this recipe is to ensure your oil is adequately heated before frying the chicken. If the oil is too cool, the coating can become soggy instead of crispy. A kitchen thermometer can be handy for checking oil temperature. Additionally, consider marinating your chicken in buttermilk for an hour prior to coating it; this can enhance tenderness and flavor.

Adjusting the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce can cater to personal preference. Start with less sriracha if you prefer a milder flavor, and gradually increase to achieve your desired level of heat. Using high-quality mayonnaise can also elevate your sauce, giving it a richer taste. Lastly, tossing the pasta and sauce quickly ensures that every piece of pasta is coated evenly, delivering a consistent flavor throughout the dish.

Variation

No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 70 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 800 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
A: Yes, shrimp or tofu can be excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Q: Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
A: Use gluten-free flour and pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Q: Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
A: Absolutely! The Bang Bang sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. Just give it a good stir before using.