There’s something incredibly satisfying about bite-sized chicken that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. That’s exactly what you get with these Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Breast Bites—a dish that’s perfect for game day, weeknight dinners, or even as a party appetizer. The air fryer gives these chicken bites an unbeatable crunch without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier (but just as delicious) alternative.
I love how versatile this recipe is—you can adjust the spice level to your liking, serve them with a side of cool ranch or extra bang bang sauce for dipping, or even toss them into a salad for a protein-packed meal. The best part? They come together in just 20 minutes, making them a go-to when I want something quick, flavorful, and downright addictive.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Boneless, skinless chicken breast: The star of the dish! Chicken breast stays juicy when cooked properly in the air fryer and provides the perfect base for the crispy coating. Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Cornstarch: This is the secret to ultra-crispy chicken without deep frying. A light coating of cornstarch helps create that golden, crunchy exterior we all love.
Egg: Acts as the binder to help the cornstarch stick to the chicken, ensuring every bite is perfectly coated.
Bang Bang Sauce: A creamy, spicy, slightly sweet sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a touch of honey. It’s what gives these bites their signature flavor.
Paprika and garlic powder: These spices add depth and a smoky, savory note to the chicken, enhancing the overall taste.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out all the other flavors.
Cooking spray or oil: A light spritz helps the chicken crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or 1 tbsp oil
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Breast Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure the coating sticks well. In a bowl, season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, tossing to coat evenly.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Dip each seasoned chicken piece into the beaten egg, then dredge in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Place them on a plate in a single layer.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil, then arrange the chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Spray the tops lightly with oil and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small bowl. Adjust spiciness to taste.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Once the chicken is done, toss the crispy bites in the bang bang sauce or drizzle it on top. Serve immediately with extra sauce for dipping!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches for the crispiest results.
- For extra crispiness, spray the chicken lightly with oil before air frying.
- Adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha in the sauce.
- Serve fresh—these bites are best enjoyed right after cooking to maintain crunch.
- Try panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier texture (mix with cornstarch).
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Yes! Thighs will be juicier, but adjust cooking time as needed (they may take a minute or two longer).
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Is there a substitute for sweet chili sauce?
You can use a mix of ketchup and a little honey, though the flavor will vary slightly.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your cornstarch and sauces are gluten-free certified.
These Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites are guaranteed to be a hit—crispy, saucy, and packed with flavor. Give them a try and watch them disappear in minutes!