Best Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp Recipes to Try

If you’re craving a meal that’s spicy, creamy, and packed with bold flavors, look no further than Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp. This delightful dish combines tender chicken and juicy shrimp tossed in a luscious, spicy sauce that’s both sweet and fiery. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for any meal, and guaranteed to satisfy those cravings without demanding hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or surprising friends, this recipe strikes that perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Bold Flavor Explosion: Combines spicy, tangy, and sweet notes that tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Protein Combo: The mix of chicken and shrimp adds diverse textures and makes the dish extra special.
• Kid-Friendly with a Kick: Adjustable spice levels mean everyone can enjoy their preferred heat intensity.
• Great Meal Prep Option: Keeps well for lunches or dinners throughout the week without losing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the flavors just right for Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp starts with simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating that creamy, spicy sauce and giving the proteins their perfect texture and flavor.

• Chicken breasts or thighs: Use boneless and skinless for tender, easy-to-cut pieces.
• Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a sweet, juicy contrast to the chicken’s texture.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base that brings the sauce all together with a smooth texture.
• Sriracha sauce: Provides heat and a hint of garlic flavor that’s essential for the “bang” in Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp.
• Honey or sugar: Balances the spiciness with a touch of sweetness.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth to the sauce without overpowering the other flavors.
• Rice vinegar or lime juice: Offers a pleasant tang that brightens the overall dish.
• Green onions and sesame seeds: For garnish, bringing color and extra flavor to every bite.

Variations for Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp

The beauty of Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp is how easy it is to personalize based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry. Feel free to mix it up and keep this dish exciting.

• Spicy Level Control: Adjust the amount of sriracha or substitute with milder chili sauces for less heat.
• Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops, or try it with tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Sauce Twists: Add a splash of coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a creamier, richer texture.
• Crunch Factor: Toss in crushed peanuts or crispy fried onions for extra bite.
• Serving Style: Serve over rice, noodles, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

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How to Make Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Proteins

Pat the chicken dry and cut into bite-sized pieces. Peel and devein the shrimp if needed. Season lightly with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors before cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Shrimp

Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken pieces until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, cook shrimp until pink and just opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 3: Mix the Bang Bang Sauce

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, honey, garlic powder, and rice vinegar or lime juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning by adding more sriracha or sweetener as preferred.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Return cooked chicken and shrimp to the pan or a large bowl. Pour the sauce over them and toss gently so every piece is generously coated in the luscious bang bang sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top for a fresh crunch and appealing presentation. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp

• Use Fresh Proteins: Fresh chicken and shrimp make the biggest difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; remove as soon as it turns pink to avoid chewiness.
• Customize Sauce Consistency: Add a splash of water or lime juice if the sauce is too thick.
• Toast Sesame Seeds: Lightly toast sesame seeds for a nuttier flavor and added crunch.
• Serve Immediately: The sauce tastes best fresh, so serve right away for maximum creaminess and flavor.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp

Garnishes

Enhance the dish with freshly chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra pop of heat and texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, garlic fried rice, or simple stir-fried vegetables. For a lighter touch, crisp lettuce wraps or cauliflower rice work beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp over crispy wonton chips for a fun appetizer twist, or toss the proteins into a fresh salad with crunchy cabbage and carrots for a refreshing meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken overnight; simply stir gently to bring it back to the perfect consistency before serving.

Freezing

While freezing cooked Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp is possible, the sauce’s creamy texture may separate slightly. For best results, freeze the proteins and sauce separately and combine after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a microwave or a skillet over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of water or lime juice while reheating helps restore the sauce’s smooth texture.

FAQs

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp spicy without sriracha?

Absolutely! You can substitute sriracha with other hot sauces like chili garlic sauce, gochujang, or even cayenne pepper to control the heat level and flavor profile.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free mayonnaise and sriracha or substitute those with gluten-free versions.

Can I use frozen shrimp and chicken?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and ensure proper searing.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?

You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as healthier alternatives, which still provide creaminess but with a tangier flavor.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! Making the bang bang sauce ahead helps flavors meld beautifully, just keep it refrigerated and stir well before tossing with the proteins.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp is one of those fabulous recipes that never fails to impress while being incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re craving a spicy dinner or something creamy and satisfying, this dish hits the mark. I encourage you to try it, tweak it to your liking, and share the joy of this flavorful meal with those around you—trust me, it’s a winner every time!

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