Description
Learn how to make crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Breasts with this easy recipe. Perfectly seasoned and packed with flavor, a must-try dish!
Ingredients
- 2 large Chicken Breasts (about 280 grams each)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tsp (5 ml) garlic powder
- 1 tsp (5 ml) smoked paprika
- 1 tsp (5 ml) oregano
- 1/2 tsp (3 ml) cayenne (reduce to 1/4 tsp (1 ml) for less spicy flavor)
- 3 Tbsp (45 ml) mayonnaise
- 3 Tbsp (45 ml) Asian sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 Tbsp (23 ml) Sriracha (add according to spicy preference)
- 1-2 Tbsp (23 ml) chopped green onion or cilantro (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the appliance. Prepare the Air Fryer by warming it up to 400F/204C for about 5 minutes to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy.
- Prepare the chicken. To allow flavors to seep into the chicken, make shallow cuts. With a sharp knife, slice the chicken about 1/2-inch deep in straight lines spaced 1 inch apart. Then cut in the opposite direction to form a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to slice all the way through.
- Apply seasoning. Liberally sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of the chicken. In a small bowl, blend together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne until uniform. Divide this mixture into two parts and dust over the chicken breasts, ensuring even coverage, including in the grooves.
- Create the Bang Bang sauce. In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. Place a spoonful (about 1 Tbsp) of sauce on each chicken breast, taking care to avoid contaminating the sauce with raw chicken. Spread the sauce over the chicken with a spoon, saving the rest for later.
- Cook in the Air Fryer. Line the bottom of the preheated Air Fryer with parchment paper. Use tongs to place the chicken in the basket, ensuring there’s space between pieces for proper air circulation. Cook at 380F/190C until thoroughly done, approximately 12-14 minutes, depending on thickness.
- Allow the meat to rest. Once cooked, take the basket out of the Air Fryer and place it on the counter. Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes without disturbance to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Finish and serve. Drizzle the reserved sauce over the chicken. Garnish with chopped green onion or cilantro. Enjoy with rice, noodles, or a salad.
Notes
- Marinate chicken breasts in seasoning mixture for 30 minutes before air frying for a more intense flavor.
- Thicken Bang Bang sauce by adding a teaspoon of cornstarch before spreading over chicken.
- Coat chicken breasts in breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior before air frying.