Bang Bang Chicken Tenders with Sweet Heat Sauce 🍗🔥🍯
Crispy, golden fried chicken tenders tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce. It’s everything you want in a bite—and more.
These Bang Bang Chicken Tenders are all about the perfect balance: golden-crisp coating, juicy inside, and a bold, zesty sauce that clings to every nook and cranny. Whether you’re prepping for a party, game day, or simply craving something crunchy and satisfying, this recipe is a go-to favorite.
Why I Love This Recipe
It comes together in under 30 minutes and feels like something you’d get at your favorite casual dining spot—but better. The sweet heat sauce has a creamy base with just the right kick from sriracha and sweet chili sauce, making every bite sweet, spicy, and seriously addictive.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying
Sweet Heat Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sriracha (or more for extra heat)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Chicken
Sprinkle both sides of the chicken tenders with a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Prep the Breading Station
Set up 3 shallow bowls:
- Flour in the first
- Beaten eggs in the second
- Panko breadcrumbs in the third
3. Bread the Tenders
Dredge each tender first in flour, then dip in egg, and press into panko, ensuring they’re well-coated on all sides.
4. Fry to Perfection
In a skillet, heat ½ inch of oil over medium heat.
Fry tenders in batches for about 3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate.
5. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, sriracha, and minced garlic until smooth.
6. Sauce & Serve
Toss the hot chicken tenders in the sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Plate and garnish with extra sauce or chopped chives if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use panko for the ultimate crunch.
- Want to make it lighter? Bake or air fry at 400°F until crispy and cooked through.
- Adjust the heat by adding more sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes.
- For a fun twist, serve them on slider buns with lettuce and pickles for bang bang sliders.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Bang Bang Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile—perfect on their own or paired with these bold favorites:
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas to feed a hungry crew
- Beer Cheese Dip as a cheesy, spicy companion
- Crockpot Nacho Dip for the ultimate finger-food lineup
- Cheesy Hot Dip as a bold, gooey sidekick
- Chicken Enchiladas if you’re making a full Tex-Mex-style spread
Storage & Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until crispy.
- Keep the sauce separate until serving to maintain the crunch!
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Final Thoughts
Crunchy, saucy, spicy-sweet—Bang Bang Chicken Tenders check every flavor box. Whether you’re serving them up as party food, weeknight dinner, or weekend snack, they’re guaranteed to be devoured fast.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac with your plate of crispy goodness! Follow for more easy-to-make comfort foods that bring big flavor.
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