Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken is a popular dish that typically features crispy chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce. It’s beloved for its combination of heat, sweetness, and richness, making it a perfect appetizer, snack, or even a main course. Traditional Bang Bang Chicken often uses ingredients that are higher in carbs, such as breaded chicken and a sugary sauce.

In this low-carb version, we’ll take a healthier approach while still capturing all of the bold flavors that make Bang Bang Chicken so irresistible. This version uses alternative ingredients that are keto-friendly, gluten-free, and much lower in carbohydrates than the classic recipe.

Whether you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, or you just want a healthier alternative to the original, this Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken will hit all the right notes.

What Makes This Recipe Low-Carb?

This recipe is low-carb because:

• Chicken: Chicken itself is naturally low in carbohydrates, providing a great protein base.
• Breading Alternative: Instead of using breadcrumbs or flour for the coating, we use a combination of almond flour and grated Parmesan cheese. These ingredients are low in carbs and add a wonderful crispy texture.
• Sugar-Free Sauce: The classic Bang Bang Sauce is typically sweetened with sugar or sweeteners that can be high in carbs. We use sugar-free alternatives like monk fruit sweetener or stevia to keep the carbs in check, and we use full-fat mayonnaise and sugar-free sriracha for flavor.

Health Benefits of Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken

1. High in Protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body health.
2. Keto-Friendly: This recipe contains very few carbs, making it ideal for those on a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
3. Gluten-Free: By using almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs, this dish is also gluten-free.
4. Packed with Healthy Fats: The sauce uses full-fat mayo, which contains healthy fats that can be beneficial for those on a low-carb or ketogenic diet.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Start by washing and patting dry the chicken breasts. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches each. This will ensure they cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
2. Season the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

In three separate bowls, prepare the breading station for your chicken:

• In the first bowl, mix together the almond flour, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This mixture will create the crispy exterior for the chicken.
• In the second bowl, beat the egg. This will help the breading adhere to the chicken pieces.
• In the third bowl, you can leave it empty or simply add a bit more Parmesan or almond flour if you’d like extra coating.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Take each chicken piece and dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Next, transfer the chicken to the almond flour-Parmesan mixture and coat it completely. Press gently to ensure the breading sticks.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your skillet. Use tongs to flip the chicken pieces to avoid disrupting the breading.
3. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

1. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar-free sriracha, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, lemon juice (if using), and sweetener.
2. Stir well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more sriracha for heat, more sweetener for sweetness, or more vinegar for acidity. You can also add a pinch of salt to bring all the flavors together.

Step 6: Toss the Chicken in the Sauce

1. Once the chicken is crispy and golden, transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour the prepared Bang Bang Sauce over the chicken and toss to coat thoroughly. Make sure each piece of chicken is well covered with the creamy, spicy sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the sauced chicken to a serving plate or bowl.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.
3. Serve immediately as an appetizer or main dish, and enjoy the crispy, spicy, creamy goodness!

Serving Suggestions:

• As an appetizer: Serve with some fresh veggie sticks like cucumber, celery, or bell peppers.
• With a side: Serve it with a low-carb side such as zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a crisp green salad.
• On top of a salad: Add your Bang Bang Chicken to a bed of lettuce or arugula with avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Low-Carb Bang Bang Chicken:

1. Crispy Chicken: To ensure the chicken is crispy, don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Fry in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will cause the chicken to steam rather than fry, resulting in a less crispy texture.
2. Adjust Heat: If you like it spicier, add more sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of sriracha or omit the cayenne pepper in the breading.
3. Make It in the Oven: If you prefer a healthier option with less oil, bake the breaded chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Sweetener Choices: For the sauce, if you don’t have monk fruit or stevia, you can use other low-carb sweeteners like erythritol or allulose. Just keep in mind that different sweeteners have different sweetness levels, so adjust to taste.

Conclusion:

Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken is a fantastic dish for anyone craving something crispy, spicy, and satisfying without the guilt of high carbs. By using low-carb breading and a sugar-free sauce, we’ve managed to keep this dish both flavorful and diet-friendly. Whether you’re following a keto, low-carb, or gluten-free lifestyle, this recipe provides a delicious and indulgent meal without compromising on taste.

Variations on Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken

While the recipe for Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken is delicious on its own, there are several ways you can modify it to suit different tastes, dietary restrictions, or to keep things fresh and exciting. Below are a few variations that you can try:

1. Bang Bang Shrimp

If you’re not a fan of chicken or are looking for a seafood twist, you can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp. Simply use peeled, deveined shrimp instead of the chicken breast and follow the same breading and cooking instructions. Shrimp cooks much faster than chicken, so be sure to adjust the frying time to 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.

Pro Tip: Shrimp pairs wonderfully with the creamy, spicy Bang Bang Sauce. For added texture, you could even serve the shrimp over a bed of lettuce or zucchini noodles.

2. Bang Bang Cauliflower (Vegetarian/Keto Option)

For a low-carb, vegetarian alternative, try using cauliflower florets instead of chicken. Cauliflower is a great vegetable that absorbs flavors well and has a satisfying bite when roasted or fried.

Instructions for Cauliflower:

• Cut cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
• Toss the florets in the almond flour-Parmesan breading mixture and fry or bake as directed.
• Once crispy, toss the cauliflower in the Bang Bang Sauce for that familiar creamy, spicy taste.

This variation is perfect for vegetarians, vegans (if you substitute egg with a vegan alternative), or anyone looking for a plant-based option.

3. Bang Bang Chicken Tenders (Kid-Friendly Version)

If you’re cooking for kids, you might want to make the chicken pieces into tender-sized portions. You can use chicken tenders or slice the chicken breasts into longer strips to make “chicken tenders.”

Kids often love these crispy chicken strips, and the Bang Bang Sauce can be adjusted to a milder level of spice by reducing the sriracha or omitting the cayenne pepper.

4. Air Fried Bang Bang Chicken

If you own an air fryer, you can use it to make your Bang Bang Chicken even healthier by reducing the amount of oil needed to achieve that crispy texture. The air fryer uses hot circulating air to cook the chicken, which results in a crunchy outside without the need for deep frying.

Instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
• Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the sauce as usual.

Air frying is an excellent alternative for those who want to reduce fat intake while still enjoying crispy, fried-like foods.

5. Bang Bang Chicken Salad

For a lighter, more balanced meal, try serving your Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken on top of a fresh salad. A simple salad with mixed greens, avocado slices, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes can be a great base to complement the rich flavors of the chicken.

For a creamy dressing, you can use more of the Bang Bang Sauce or opt for a simple olive oil-based dressing with lemon juice and mustard. This gives the salad a fresh yet filling quality without compromising the flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken is fairly simple, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best result every time.

1. Overcrowding the Pan

When frying the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. If you add too many pieces at once, the chicken will release moisture and steam instead of frying, preventing it from becoming crispy. Always cook in batches if necessary.

2. Not Drying the Chicken

Before breading the chicken, make sure it’s patted dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can prevent the breading from sticking properly and lead to soggy pieces instead of a crispy crust.

3. Using the Wrong Sweetener

Different sweeteners behave differently, and not all of them work well in savory applications like this one. Monk fruit or stevia are the most common low-carb sweeteners used in Bang Bang Sauce because they don’t leave an aftertaste. Erythritol can sometimes crystallize in the sauce, so be cautious when using it. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tiny bit of xanthan gum.

4. Overcooking the Chicken

While you want the chicken to be crispy, you don’t want to overcook it. Keep an eye on the chicken while frying or baking it, and use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, so timing is key.

5. Not Adjusting the Spice Level

The amount of spice in the Bang Bang Sauce can be adjusted based on your personal preference. If you like things mild, start with less sriracha and cayenne pepper, then taste and adjust. If you love a good kick, feel free to add more heat! Just remember, you can always add heat, but you can’t take it away, so start with smaller amounts.

Health Considerations:

This Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken is a great option for those who are looking to cut down on carbs, but it’s also a healthy choice for many others, thanks to its high protein content, healthy fats, and minimal sugars. However, it’s always important to consider any personal dietary restrictions, such as allergies or intolerances, when making any recipe.

• Dairy-Free: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can swap the Parmesan cheese in the breading for a non-dairy alternative, or simply omit it. You could also use a dairy-free mayonnaise in the sauce.
• Nut-Free: For those with nut allergies, almond flour can be substituted with coconut flour, though it will change the texture slightly. Keep in mind that coconut flour tends to absorb more liquid, so you may need to adjust the amounts of egg or liquid ingredients.
• Low-Sodium: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use a low-sodium sriracha and opt for a sodium-free or reduced-sodium seasoning mix for the breading.

The Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken is not only a delicious and flavorful dish but also a versatile and health-conscious option that fits perfectly into a low-carb or keto lifestyle. By swapping out traditional high-carb ingredients with low-carb alternatives like almond flour, Parmesan, and sugar-free sweeteners, we’ve managed to keep this dish both satisfying and guilt-free. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its crispy texture, creamy sauce, and bold flavor.

By following the recipe and tips, you’ll be able to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make Bang Bang Chicken such a popular favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it with a side of fresh veggies, on top of a salad, or as a stand-alone dish, this Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for healthy, satisfying meals.

Yield: 4

Low Carb Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

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Bang Bang Chicken is a popular dish that typically features crispy chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce. It's beloved for its combination of heat, sweetness, and richness, making it a perfect appetizer, snack, or even a main course. Traditional Bang Bang Chicken often uses ingredients that are higher in carbs, such as breaded chicken and a sugary sauce.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup almond flour (for coating)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably avocado or olive oil-based for a healthier option)
• 2 tbsp sugar-free sweet chili sauce (or homemade low-carb version)
• 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to spice preference)
• 1 tsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a shallow bowl, mix together the almond flour, grated parmesan, salt, and pepper.
• Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg, ensuring it's coated, then dredge it in the almond flour mixture until fully covered. Set aside on a plate.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once hot, add the coated chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
• Cook for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar-free sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and salt until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust spice levels if necessary (more sriracha for heat or more sweet chili for sweetness).

4. Coat the Chicken:

• Once all the chicken is cooked, return it to the skillet on low heat (optional), and pour the Bang Bang sauce over it. Toss to coat evenly until all the chicken pieces are covered with the sauce.

5. Serve:

• Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro if desired.
• Pair with a side of cauliflower rice, steamed broccoli, or a simple salad to keep it low-carb.

Notes

Chicken Choice: You can use chicken breast or thighs depending on your preference. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier, while chicken breasts are leaner. Both work well in this recipe.

Coating Options: The almond flour combined with parmesan gives a crunchy, slightly nutty crust. If you're looking for a lighter or even crunchier option, you could experiment with coconut flour or crushed pork rinds for the coating. Coconut flour will give a more subtle flavor, while crushed pork rinds will provide a very crispy, savory texture.

Bang Bang Sauce: The sauce is the key to this recipe's bold flavor. The mayonnaise makes it creamy, while the sugar-free sweet chili sauce provides the signature sweetness. You can adjust the balance of sweetness and spiciness based on your preferences. For a spicier version, increase the sriracha, or if you want it milder, reduce or omit the sriracha altogether.

Make-Ahead Tip: The chicken can be coated and cooked in advance. Simply reheat it in the skillet or oven before tossing it in the sauce. However, it's best to add the Bang Bang sauce just before serving to keep the coating crisp.

Sugar-Free Sweet Chili Sauce: If you want to make a homemade low-carb sweet chili sauce, you can use a mix of erythritol, chili flakes, vinegar, and a bit of tomato paste or low-carb ketchup for the base.

Serving Ideas: This dish pairs wonderfully with low-carb sides like zucchini noodles, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh cucumber salad. For a more indulgent option, serve it over cauliflower mash or with a side of mashed avocado for extra creaminess.