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Bang Bang Chicken – Naomi’s Recipes

In the vast landscape of culinary delights, few dishes resonate as strongly as Bang Bang Chicken. This delightful recipe brings a taste of the East straight to your dining table, combining tender chicken with a bang of flavour that tantalises the taste buds. With Naomi’s Recipes, we delve into the art of making this delicious dish, boasting a blend of spice and creaminess that promises to impress even the fussiest of eaters.

A Brief Overview

Originating from Chinese cuisine, Bang Bang Chicken has gained immense popularity worldwide. Its name is derived from the technique used to tenderise the chicken, which involves ‘bang bang’ or gently pounding the meat to create a perfect, melt-in-the-mouth experience. Often served with a luscious peanut sauce, this dish beautifully marries the nuttiness of peanuts with the freshness of herbs and spices.

Ingredients

To recreate the magic of Bang Bang Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 500g boneless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornflour
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Peanut Sauce:

• 100g smooth peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (optional)
• Chopped spring onions and sesame seeds for garnish

For Serving:

• Cooked jasmine rice or noodles
• Fresh coriander

Method

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of cling film. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1cm thick. This step not only tenderises the meat but also allows it to cook evenly.

2. Season and Cook: Sprinkle the salt and cornflour over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

3. Make the Peanut Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the smooth peanut butter, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and ginger (if using). Whisk together until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of hot water to reach your desired texture.

4. Serve: To assemble the dish, place a generous portion of the cooked jasmine rice or noodles on a plate. Lay the sliced chicken atop the rice, drizzling a generous amount of peanut sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped spring onions, sesame seeds, and fresh coriander for an added burst of flavour and colour.

Tips for Success

• Chicken Substitute: For a vegetarian alternative, replace the chicken with crispy tofu or tempeh, allowing the same marinade to impart flavour.
• Add Some Heat: If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding a dash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the peanut sauce for a bit of heat.
• Prep Ahead: The peanut sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge. Simply give it a stir before using.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken is not only a feast for the senses but also a simple yet impressive dish to add to your home cooking repertoire. With Naomi’s Recipes, you can effortlessly recreate this Asian-inspired favourite that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bring a bang of flavour into your kitchen!

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