Recipe notes and tips
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a popular name for dishes featuring tender chicken with a flavorful sauce. The name originally comes from a Chinese dish, but the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce commonly found in American-style recipes is a different interpretation.
This low carb version features crispy air-fried chicken coated in almond flour and sesame seeds, served with a creamy, tangy sauce and a refreshing cabbage salad.
How do I get the chicken extra crispy?
Pat the chicken dry before coating it, and let excess egg drip off before pressing the pieces into the almond flour and sesame mixture.
Avoid making the coating too thick, as almond flour can absorb oil and become heavy rather than crispy. Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil and arrange the pieces in a single layer with enough space for air to circulate.
Cook in batches if necessary, and serve immediately for the best texture.
Can I use sesame flour instead of ground sesame seeds?
Yes! Both work well in this recipe. If using whole sesame seeds, grind them in a food processor until finely ground, stopping before they turn into a paste.
Choose plain, unsweetened sesame flour without added ingredients.
Can I make this in the oven?
Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the coated chicken pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a lightly greased wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Lightly spray with olive oil and bake for approximately 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
How spicy is Bang Bang sauce?
The sauce has a creamy, tangy flavor with a noticeable kick from the hot sauce.
For a milder version, start with less hot sauce and gradually add more to taste. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a little more hot sauce.
What kind of hot sauce should I use?
Frank’s RedHot Original works well and adds a pleasant tangy heat without overpowering the other flavors.
You can also use another unsweetened hot sauce. Check the ingredients for added sugar, especially when choosing Asian-style chili sauces.
Can I make the sauce sweeter?
Yes! Traditional American-style Bang Bang sauces often contain sweet chili sauce, which adds both sweetness and heat.
For a low carb alternative, add a little powdered erythritol to the mayonnaise-based sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a delicious alternative and tend to stay particularly juicy.
Cut them into evenly sized pieces and follow the same coating method. Adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I prepare this ahead?
Yes! The Bang Bang sauce can be prepared a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
You can also shred the cabbage and prepare the salad dressing in advance. Keep the dressing and avocado separate until just before serving to maintain the best texture.
For the crispiest coating, cook the chicken shortly before serving.
Storage and leftovers
Store leftover chicken, cabbage salad, and Bang Bang sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again.
The cabbage salad is best enjoyed fresh, especially once the avocado and dressing have been added.