Name: Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional); Cooked white rice; 2–3 green onions, chopped

Tender, juicy, and bursting with bold flavor, these Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are the perfect fusion of crispy, savory meat and a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that clings to every bite. With a golden sear on the outside and a melt-in-your-mouth texture on the inside, this dish turns a weeknight dinner into a restaurant-style experience right at home.

The sauce is where the magic happens—think tangy mayo, sweet chili, and just the right kick of heat from sriracha, balanced with a hint of honey. Served over fluffy rice and topped with vibrant green onions, it’s a visually stunning and crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for everything from family dinners to date nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

Flavor-packed: A perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory.
Quick and simple: Minimal prep and under 30 minutes to table.
Versatile: Serve it with rice, noodles, or in wraps.
Budget-friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples and chicken thighs.
Kid and adult approved: The sauce can be adjusted for different spice levels.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Before diving into cooking, a smooth prep phase sets you up for success. Bang Bang Chicken Thighs come together quickly, so having your tools and ingredients ready is key. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item matters:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan
This ensures even heat distribution and gives the chicken a beautiful sear and caramelized crust.
Tongs
Ideal for flipping the chicken thighs without piercing them, which helps retain the juices.
Mixing Bowls
You’ll need these to prepare the marinade and mix the bang bang sauce separately.
Whisk or Spoon
To blend the creamy sauce into a smooth, even consistency.
Meat Thermometer (optional but recommended)
Helps ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safe and juicy results.
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
For trimming any excess fat from the chicken and slicing green onions for garnish.
Rice Cooker or Pot (if serving with rice)
A simple way to get fluffy, perfectly cooked rice as a base for this dish.

Preparation Tips

Pat the Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to dry the chicken thighs before seasoning. This ensures they sear properly and don’t steam in the pan.
Marinate Briefly: Let the chicken sit with a light coating of oil and seasoning for at least 10 minutes to absorb flavor before hitting the pan.
Preheat the Pan: Don’t rush this step! A hot skillet creates that crispy, golden crust without overcooking the inside.
Make the Sauce in Advance: Whisk the bang bang sauce before you begin cooking. This way, you can spoon it over the hot chicken straight from the pan.
Slice Garnishes Fresh: Chop your green onions last for vibrant color and crisp texture.

Ingredients for This Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

To create the ultimate balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy in this dish, you’ll need a handful of well-matched ingredients. Each component plays a role in either the flavor-packed chicken or the iconic bang bang sauce.

For the Chicken:

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Tender, juicy, and more flavorful than chicken breasts.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Helps with browning and adds a crisp edge to the chicken.
Salt and pepper to taste
The foundation of flavor—don’t skip this essential seasoning.
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Adds savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
Creamy and rich, it’s the base of the sauce. Use full-fat for the best texture.
2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
Brings sweetness and a subtle tang that balances the heat.
1 tablespoon sriracha
Packs a spicy punch—adjust to your heat preference.
1 tablespoon honey
Smooths out the spice and adds a touch of sweetness.
1 teaspoon rice vinegar (optional)
For a little zing that lifts the sauce with brightness.

For Serving and Garnish:

Cooked white rice
The perfect neutral base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
2–3 green onions, chopped
Adds color, freshness, and a mild onion bite.

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry using paper towels—this is crucial for achieving a good sear. Place them in a bowl or plate and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Let them rest for 10 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness to your preference. Set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom. Carefully lay the chicken thighs in the pan smooth-side down. Do not overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. Sear for about 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 4: Glaze the Chicken

Lower the heat to medium-low. Spoon a generous amount of the bang bang sauce over each piece of chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, allowing the sauce to warm and slightly thicken. Gently flip the chicken once to coat both sides, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Serve the glazed chicken thighs over a warm bed of white rice. Drizzle with any extra sauce from the pan. Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breasts: This recipe is designed for thighs due to their juiciness and rich flavor, but it can be adapted with boneless breasts—just adjust the cooking time and be careful not to dry them out.
Customizing the Heat: Love it fiery? Add extra sriracha or even a pinch of cayenne. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha and bump up the honey slightly.
Sauce Texture Tip: For a silkier sauce, you can blend all the sauce ingredients in a food processor for 10–15 seconds.
Make It Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check your sauces (especially the chili sauce) to ensure they don’t contain wheat-based thickeners.
Leftover Sauce Use: Any leftover Bang Bang sauce works beautifully as a dip for fries, drizzled on roasted veggies, or inside wraps.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many chicken thighs at once lowers the skillet’s temperature, causing the chicken to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
Skipping the Pat-Dry Step: Moisture on the surface of the chicken prevents that golden-brown crust from forming—always pat the chicken dry first.
Using Cold Chicken: Going straight from the fridge to the pan can lead to uneven cooking. Letting the chicken sit for 10–15 minutes at room temperature helps it cook more evenly.
Overcooking the Sauce: The bang bang sauce doesn’t need long on the heat. Just a quick warm-up once it’s on the chicken is enough—extended simmering can break the emulsion and turn it greasy.
Neglecting to Taste and Adjust: The sauce is highly customizable. Always taste before serving and adjust spice, sweetness, or acidity to match your flavor preference.

What to Serve With Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

These Bang Bang Chicken Thighs shine as the star of any plate, but they become a complete, crave-worthy meal when paired with the right sides. Whether you’re looking for something fresh and crisp, creamy and comforting, or light and healthy—there’s a pairing for every vibe.

8 Recommendations

1. Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice

A classic base that soaks up all that luscious sauce and balances the heat with its neutral flavor.

2. Garlic Butter Noodles

Silky noodles tossed in butter and garlic give you a cozy and indulgent side that’s still simple enough not to compete with the bold main.

3. Roasted Broccoli or Broccolini

Tossed in olive oil, sea salt, and roasted until crispy—it adds a slightly bitter contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the sauce.

4. Asian Cucumber Salad

Cool, crunchy cucumbers in a light vinegar dressing with sesame seeds offer a refreshing and palate-cleansing contrast.

5. Pickled Carrots and Daikon

These bring zing, crunch, and a touch of sweetness—perfect for cutting through the richness of the chicken.

6. Stir-Fried Vegetables

A colorful mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and mushrooms tossed in soy sauce and garlic brings vibrant flavor and color to the plate.

7. Coconut Rice

Fluffy rice cooked in coconut milk gives a subtle sweetness and creamy texture that complements the sauce beautifully.

8. Spring Rolls or Lettuce Wraps

If you’re serving this dish as part of a larger spread, these make perfect appetizers or light sides that still work harmoniously with the main dish.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage helps maintain the flavor and texture of your Bang Bang Chicken Thighs while making meal prep a breeze for the next day.

Refrigeration

How to Store: Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container along with any leftover sauce.
Shelf Life: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Tip: Store rice and chicken separately if possible to maintain texture and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

Freezer-Friendly?: Yes, though for best results, freeze the chicken without the sauce.
How to Freeze: Wrap chicken thighs individually in plastic wrap or place in freezer bags. Store sauce separately in a small airtight container.
Freezer Duration: Up to 2 months.
Thawing & Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or fresh sauce to revive the texture.

Estimated Nutrition

Please note: These values are approximate and based on a serving size of one chicken thigh with sauce (not including rice or sides).

Calories: ~310
Protein: 22g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Sugar: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 520mg
Cholesterol: 95mg

Nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! While thighs offer more flavor and tenderness, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work too. Just be sure to pound them to even thickness and avoid overcooking, as they dry out faster than thighs.

2. Is Bang Bang Chicken spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat thanks to sriracha. If you’re spice-sensitive, reduce or omit the sriracha and let the sweet chili sauce carry the flavor. For heat lovers, feel free to add crushed red pepper or more sriracha.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then combine and reheat just before serving. Store separately for the best texture.

4. What’s a good substitute for sweet chili sauce?

You can mix honey with a touch of rice vinegar and a pinch of red pepper flakes as a quick stand-in. It won’t be identical but still delivers a sweet-heat flavor.

5. Can I air-fry the chicken instead?

Yes! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), spray the thighs lightly with oil, and cook for 16–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Glaze with sauce after cooking.

6. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. Store in portioned containers with rice and a side veggie. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop for an easy lunch or dinner all week long.

7. What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

You can substitute it with white vinegar or lime juice, though rice vinegar has a gentler, sweeter acidity that’s ideal for the sauce.

8. Can I make this sauce dairy-free?

Yes, it already is! Just ensure your mayo is dairy-free (many are, but check the label), and you’re good to go.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Thighs bring together juicy, pan-seared meat and a lusciously creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that hits every craving. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, impressing guests, or prepping meals for the week, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. It’s flexible, family-friendly, and guaranteed to become a regular in your rotation.