There’s something undeniably satisfying about a simple, flavorful chicken bake that brings the whole family to the dinner table. Enter the Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bake, a zesty, creamy, and slightly spicy dish that’s destined to become a household favorite. This recipe takes all the vibrant, bold flavors of Bang Bang sauce and transforms them into a mouthwatering, oven-baked masterpiece. Plus, it’s a cinch to prepare, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or weekend dinners.
But why is it called Bang Bang Chicken? This name originates from the iconic Bang Bang sauce, known for its signature combination of spicy, tangy, and creamy elements. The sauce pairs beautifully with tender, seasoned chicken, creating a dish that’s as irresistible as it is easy to make.
Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Let’s get baking!
Ingredients For Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bake
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds total)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups (336 g) Bang Bang sauce, divided
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
- Cooked brown rice, for serving
Instructions For Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bake
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. Slice each breast horizontally to create six thinner cutlets.
- Season the Chicken:
- Place the cutlets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it over both sides.
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over each piece.
- Add the Sauce:
- Arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Spoon 1 cup of the Bang Bang sauce over the top, spreading it out to fully coat the cutlets. Set aside the remaining sauce for later.
- Bake the Chicken:
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (75ºC).
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve the chicken over a bed of cooked brown rice, and drizzle with the reserved Bang Bang sauce for extra flavor.
Why You’ll Love Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bake
- Quick & Easy: Just 30 minutes from start to finish!
- Bold Flavors: Creamy, tangy, and a little spicy – it’s a flavor explosion.
- Family-Friendly: Mild enough for kids but with enough zing to please adults.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions:
- Chicken Breasts: Swap with chicken thighs for juicier meat.
- Bang Bang Sauce: Use a store-bought version or make your own using mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha.
- Brown Rice: White rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice are excellent substitutes.
How to Make Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bake (Step-by-Step):
- Prep the Chicken: Dry the chicken, slice into thin cutlets, and season.
- Add the Sauce: Coat with the Bang Bang sauce and bake until tender.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over rice, drizzling with extra sauce.
Expert Tips for Success:
- Keep It Juicy: Avoid overcooking to maintain tender, moist chicken.
- Extra Sauce, Please: Reserve some sauce for serving – it adds a delicious finishing touch.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha.
Variations and Customizations:
- Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Low Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.
- Dairy-Free: Ensure your Bang Bang sauce is dairy-free.
Storage and Reheating Instructions:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350ºF (175ºC) oven or in the microwave until heated through.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of citrusy brightness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bake
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
- Is Bang Bang sauce spicy? It can be mildly spicy but can be adjusted to your taste.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Related Recipes:
- Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Sriracha Chicken Rice Bowls
- Sweet Chili Shrimp Stir Fry
Conclusion:
The Easy Bang Bang Chicken Bake is a family-friendly dinner that delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. It’s zesty, creamy, and has just the right amount of spice to keep everyone coming back for more. Serve it over a bed of rice and watch it disappear in no time. Ready to make dinner a little more exciting? This is the recipe for you!
