If you’re craving something that perfectly balances heat, crunch, and irresistible flavor, you’ve got to try this Spicy Crispy Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that grabs your attention with its crispy, golden skin and then keeps you hooked with a creamy, tangy, spicy sauce that’s packed with personality. Easy enough for a weeknight dinner, but impressive enough for a casual get-together, this recipe showcases juicy, tender chicken thighs coated in a crispy crust and topped with a luscious bang bang sauce that you’ll want to drizzle on everything.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and wonderful in their simplicity. Each plays a crucial role in creating that perfect crispy texture, bold flavors, and vibrant colors that bring this Spicy Crispy Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe to life.
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on): The skin crisps up beautifully while the bone keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and boosting all the other flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth to the chicken’s taste.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the irresistible crispy coating on the chicken skin.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or canola oil): Perfect for frying — this oil heats evenly and crisps the chicken without overpowering flavors.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory note right into the crust for extra flavor.
- 1/2 cup Thai chili sauce: The star ingredient in the bang bang sauce, delivering just the right amount of spice and sweetness.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Brings creamy richness and mellows the spiciness perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Adds bright, zesty acidity, balancing the heat and richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish): A fresh, vibrant touch to finish off the dish with some color and crunch.
How to Make Spicy Crispy Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by generously sprinkling salt and freshly ground black pepper over the chicken thighs. This simple step might feel basic, but it’s the foundation for that deep, well-rounded flavor that makes the Spicy Crispy Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe so crave-worthy. Every bite will be seasoned perfectly and ready for the next steps.
Step 2: Coat with Flour
Dredge each chicken thigh in all-purpose flour, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated, then shake off any excess. This layer of flour is key for creating that irresistible crispy crust once the chicken hits the hot skillet. It’s what makes the exterior so crunchy while locking in the juicy tenderness inside.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high until it shimmers. This temperature ensures the chicken skin sizzles immediately upon contact, rendering out fat and achieving that coveted golden brown crispiness that’s signature to this dish.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken Skin-Side Down
Carefully place the floured chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Let them cook for 7 to 8 minutes without disturbance—the idea here is to let the skin crisp up beautifully. Resist the urge to poke or flip too early; this patience pays off with the perfect crunchy texture you want.
Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking
Turn the thighs gently with tongs and continue cooking for another 7 to 8 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The chicken should be tender and juicy on the inside with skin that’s still crisp and so satisfying.
Step 6: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken cooks, whisk together Thai chili sauce, mayonnaise, and lime juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The sauce blends heat, creamy tang, and citrusy zing perfectly, creating a luscious topping that turns this dish into something truly unforgettable.
Step 7: Drizzle the Sauce
Once your chicken thighs are cooked to perfection, drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over the hot, crispy thighs. The warmth of the chicken slightly melts the sauce, making it stick to every crispy nook and cranny for a glorious burst of flavor with each bite.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions over the sauced chicken for a fresh, vibrant finish. This little pop of color and bite adds contrast to the creamy, spicy richness of the sauce, elevating both the taste and presentation.
How to Serve Spicy Crispy Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped green onions are an absolute must for this recipe, lending a crisp texture and mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness. You can also add a few sprigs of cilantro or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for an extra flavor dimension that pairs wonderfully with the bang bang sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish shines alongside simple, fresh sides. Think steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up the sauce, crunchy slaw for brightness, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added texture and color. The key is to balance the boldness of the chicken with something fresh and light.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken thighs and serve them over a bowl of crisp lettuce with shredded carrots and cucumbers, then drizzle your bang bang sauce like a dressing. Alternatively, use the chicken as a protein-packed topping for soft tacos or bao buns topped with slaw for a playful meal option everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be tough!), store the chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Try to keep the sauce separate if possible, and add it fresh when reheating to keep the crispiness intact.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken thighs for up to 2 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. For best results, freeze the bang bang sauce separately in a small container or freezer bag to maintain its texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to preserve that crispy skin. If your sauce is stored separately, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, then drizzle it over the chicken just before serving for maximum yumminess.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster and still deliver great flavor. Just watch your cooking time closely to avoid drying them out. The crispy skin will be less dramatic without bone-in, but the bang bang sauce will still shine.
Is the sauce very spicy?
The bang bang sauce has a pleasant, balanced heat thanks to the Thai chili sauce, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the heat by mixing in more or less chili sauce or adding a little honey to soften the spice if you prefer milder flavors.
What’s the best oil for frying the chicken?
Vegetable or canola oil is best for this recipe because they have high smoke points and neutral flavors. Avoid using olive oil since it has a lower smoke point and stronger flavor that might overpower the dish.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
You can bake the chicken for a healthier version, but it won’t be quite as crispy as skillet-fried. Bake at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, and then drizzle the bang bang sauce on top. It’s still delicious, just less crunchy.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to coat the chicken. Make sure your Thai chili sauce and mayonnaise are also labeled gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so this swap is simple and effective.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Crispy Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings together crispy skin, juicy meat, and a sauce bursting with bold flavor. It’s approachable, fun to make, and leaves you wanting more. I’m so excited for you to try it—you might just find a new favorite way to enjoy chicken thighs forever!
Print
Spicy Crispy Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4 chicken thighs)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Thai-American Fusion
Description
This Spicy Crispy Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe delivers perfectly golden, crispy skin and juicy meat, coated in a spicy, creamy Thai-inspired sauce. Made quickly on the stovetop, this flavorful dish balances heat, tanginess, and crunch, making it a fantastic meal for anyone craving a bold and satisfying chicken dish.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds chicken thighs (bone-in and skin-on)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground is best)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (can substitute with canola oil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Sauce & Garnish
- 1/2 cup Thai chili sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Generously sprinkle salt and black pepper over the chicken thighs, ensuring an even coating to enhance the flavor and create a mouthwatering taste.
- Dredge in Flour: Dredge each seasoned thigh in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess to prepare for crispy cooking.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high until shimmering, indicating it’s ready for frying.
- Cook Chicken Skin-Side Down: Carefully place the coated chicken thighs in the hot skillet, skin-side down. Cook for 7-8 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Using tongs, turn the thighs over gently and cook for another 7-8 minutes until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Thai chili sauce, mayonnaise, and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
- Apply Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle the bang bang sauce over the crispy thighs while they’re still hot to allow the sauce to meld with the crispy skin.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, crunchy contrast and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and crispiness.
- Ensure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the chicken to achieve a crispy skin without sticking.
- Adjust the amount of Thai chili sauce in the sauce to control the spice level.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet to retain crispiness.
