Bang Bang Chicken Pasta Recipe

In the ever-evolving world of comfort food, fusion dishes continue to captivate taste buds and redefine what a weeknight dinner can be. One such standout creation is Bang Bang Chicken Pasta—a dish that combines the creamy, spicy-sweet flavors of the beloved Bang Bang sauce with tender chunks of chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s rich, bold, and utterly addictive—a perfect marriage of familiar ingredients and exciting flavors.

Originating from the popular Bang Bang Chicken served in Asian-American cuisine—often seen in restaurants like Bonefish Grill or PF Chang’s—the original version features crispy chicken tossed in a creamy, chili-spiked sauce that delivers just the right amount of heat. That signature Bang Bang sauce (a tantalizing blend of mayo, chili sauce, honey or sugar, and a touch of acidity) has since become a viral favorite, inspiring everything from tacos and shrimp to roasted cauliflower. With Bang Bang Chicken Pasta, this flavor-packed sauce gets a new stage: silky noodles and juicy chicken take on the role of canvas, turning the dish into a hearty, satisfying, one-bowl meal.

This recipe isn’t just about flavor—it’s about accessibility and ease. Using ingredients that are widely available in most kitchens or grocery stores, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. From boiling the pasta to pan-searing the chicken and whipping up the sauce, each step is straightforward, even for novice home cooks. And because it’s highly customizable, you can adjust the spice level, swap in different proteins, or toss in vegetables to suit your taste or dietary needs.

What sets this dish apart is its balance: the richness of the creamy sauce is cut by tangy vinegar or lime juice, the sweetness offsets the spice, and the chicken adds satisfying texture and protein. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming, spicy without being punishing, and comforting while still feeling fun and exciting. It’s the kind of dish you make once—and immediately crave again.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn not only how to make a classic Bang Bang Chicken Pasta from scratch, but also how to customize it, lighten it up, or serve it in creative ways. We’ll cover everything from choosing the best pasta shape, cooking juicy chicken, making the perfect Bang Bang sauce, and assembling it all into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece. You’ll also find tips for making it ahead, storing leftovers, and even turning it into a casserole or cold pasta salad variation.

Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or entertaining friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s quick, flavorful, and just indulgent enough to feel like a special treat. Once you add Bang Bang Chicken Pasta to your dinner rotation, don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your most-requested recipes.

So, tie on your apron, fire up the stovetop, and get ready to experience the bold, creamy, spicy-sweet magic of Bang Bang Chicken Pasta. This isn’t just another pasta night—it’s the ultimate fusion comfort food, and you’re going to love every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Gather and Prepare Ingredients

Start by assembling all the ingredients to keep your cooking process smooth and organized.

For the Chicken:

• 1 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)

• Salt for pasta water

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 to 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (adjust for sweetness and spice level)

• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more if you like it spicier)

• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar

• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt, to taste

For Garnish and Mix-ins:

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)

• Sesame seeds (optional)

• Lime wedges (optional)

• Steamed or sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas (optional)

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The water should taste like the sea, which seasons the pasta as it cooks.

2. Cook Pasta:
   Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite but cooked through). Usually, this is around 8–10 minutes depending on the pasta shape.

3. Reserve Pasta Water:
   Before draining, scoop out ½ cup of pasta cooking water and set aside. This starchy water will help loosen the sauce later.

4. Drain:
   Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare and Cook the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken:
   In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.

2. Heat the Skillet:
   Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or cast-iron pan until shimmering.

3. Cook the Chicken:
   Add the chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F or 74°C).

4. Remove and Set Aside:
   Transfer cooked chicken to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.

2. Adjust Flavor:
   Taste and adjust for spice, sweetness, or acidity according to your preference. If you want it spicier, add more sriracha; for sweeter, add more honey.

Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

1. Return Pan to Medium Heat:
   Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet or a large mixing bowl.

2. Add Bang Bang Sauce:
   Pour the sauce over the pasta and toss gently to coat evenly.

3. Add Chicken:
   Add the cooked chicken pieces to the pasta and gently mix together.

4. Loosen Sauce if Needed:
   If the sauce feels too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired creaminess and consistency.

Step 6: Add Garnishes and Optional Vegetables

1. Incorporate Vegetables:
   If using vegetables like sautéed bell peppers or steamed broccoli, fold them in now to distribute evenly.

2. Garnish:
   Sprinkle sliced green onions, chopped cilantro or parsley, and sesame seeds over the top.

3. Serve with Lime Wedges:
   Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for an optional bright, acidic finish.

Step 7: Serving Suggestions

• Serve Hot:
  This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm for maximum flavor and creamy texture.

• Reheating:
  Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.