If you’re looking to spice up your snack game with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, Hot Honey Bang Bang Chicken Bites are the answer! These crispy, tender chicken pieces are coated in a hot honey glaze that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving something new, or just want to treat yourself, this recipe delivers irresistible flavor in every bite.
In this article, we’ll explore how to make Hot Honey Bang Bang Chicken Bites from scratch, what ingredients are needed, and why this dish is a must-try. Prepare to dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will surely impress your family and friends.
What Are Hot Honey Bang Bang Chicken Bites?
Hot Honey Bang Bang Chicken Bites are crispy, deep-fried chicken chunks coated in a sweet and spicy sauce made with hot honey and creamy elements like mayonnaise or sour cream. The sauce is the star of this dish, offering a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that pairs beautifully with the crunchy chicken.
This dish is inspired by the popular Bang Bang Shrimp, but it’s made with tender chicken, making it a great option for those who prefer poultry over seafood. The hot honey sauce gives it a spicy kick that complements the crispy coating, creating a flavor profile that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Hot Honey Bang Bang Chicken Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you’ll need fresh ingredients to make the chicken crispy and the sauce perfectly balanced. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Chicken Bites:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thigh, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
- 1/4 cup honey (for that sweet base)
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for a slight tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure that each piece is crispy and evenly cooked. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor before breading.
2. Breading the Chicken
In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another dish, whisk the eggs. In a third dish, place the breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch).
Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture first, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally, coat it with breadcrumbs. This three-step breading process will give your chicken a crispy, golden exterior.
3. Frying the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet over medium heat. To test the oil’s readiness, drop in a small piece of breading; it should sizzle and float to the top. Carefully add the breaded chicken bites in batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan.
Fry for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Make the Hot Honey Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and salt. Taste the sauce and adjust the heat level by adding more hot sauce if you prefer it spicier or more honey if you want it sweeter.
5. Coating the Chicken
Once the chicken bites are fried and crispy, toss them in the hot honey sauce. Make sure every piece is coated evenly. You can also drizzle the sauce over the chicken if you prefer a lighter coating.
Why You’ll Love Hot Honey Bang Bang Chicken Bites
1. A Flavor Explosion: The sweet honey and spicy hot sauce blend perfectly, creating a delicious flavor combination. Each bite offers a satisfying balance of heat and sweetness that’s both bold and addictive.
2. Crispy Perfection: The breadcrumb coating gives the chicken a light, crispy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, saucy interior.
3. Versatile: This dish works great as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main course. Pair it with a side of fries, veggies, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
4. Easy to Make: Despite its restaurant-quality taste, this recipe is easy to prepare and can be made in under 30 minutes.
5. Customizable Heat Level: You can adjust the heat of the hot honey sauce to your liking. For those who love spicy food, feel free to load up the hot sauce. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of hot sauce and add more honey.
Tips for Perfecting Hot Honey Bang Bang Chicken Bites
- For extra crispy chicken, double dip the chicken in the flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This will give it an extra layer of crunch.
- Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Serve immediately after tossing the chicken in the sauce to keep the coating crispy. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, keep the chicken and sauce separate until just before serving.
- Try adding toppings like chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions for Hot Honey Bang Bang Chicken Bites
- As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks or small skewers for easy sharing at parties or gatherings.
- As a Main Course: Pair with a side of coleslaw or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- With Dipping Sauces: Complement the hot honey sauce with ranch dressing or blue cheese for an added flavor option.
Hot Honey Bang Bang Chicken Bites are an irresistible combination of crispy, juicy chicken and a spicy-sweet sauce that’s sure to please. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Simple to make, customizable, and full of flavor, these chicken bites will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Don’t forget to experiment with the heat levels of the sauce and enjoy these delicious bites with your favorite sides. The balance of sweet and spicy will make every bite an unforgettable experience!
