Name: Bang Bang Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta; 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 green onions, sliced; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta – two culinary titans, one a celebrated Szechuan delicacy known for its explosive flavors, the other a beloved staple of Italian comfort, finally unite in a dish that is nothing short of revolutionary. I’ve always been fascinated by the magic that happens when distinct culinary traditions cross paths, creating something entirely new yet deeply satisfying. This recipe is a prime example of such an extraordinary fusion, promising to awaken your taste buds with every delightful forkful.

Originating from the vibrant culinary landscape of Szechuan, traditional Bang Bang Chicken, or Bang Bang Ji, is revered for its tender poached chicken, often ‘banged’ to tenderize, drenched in a fiery, nutty, and sweet sauce. Imagine taking those iconic, irresistible flavors – the perfect blend of spicy, savory, and a hint of sweetness – and pairing them with perfectly al dente pasta. The result? A truly unforgettable meal that brings a harmonious fusion of textures and tastes.

People adore this Bang Bang Chicken Pasta for its incredible depth of flavor, the satisfying chew of the noodles, the creamy yet vibrant sauce, and the tender, protein-rich chicken. It’s an adventurous yet approachable dish, perfect for a busy weeknight or an impressive dinner party, offering convenience without compromising on gourmet appeal. I promise, this unique twist will quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or your preferred high-smoke-point oil) for cooking
For the Creamy Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¾ cup full-fat mayonnaise (I find Kewpie mayo works exceptionally well for an extra rich and creamy texture, but any good quality mayo will do!)
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (or more, to taste, if you love a fiery kick!)
- 1 tablespoon honey (you can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a slightly different sweetness profile)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (unseasoned is preferred, as seasoned can add too much sugar)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced (I sometimes grate mine on a microplane for ultimate smoothness)
For the Pasta:
- 12-16 oz (340-450g) long pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are excellent choices for this “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta” dish, as they really grab onto the sauce)
- 1 tablespoon salt, for pasta water (it’s important to generously season your pasta water!)
For Garnish (Optional, but highly recommended for freshness and visual appeal):
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced (both white and green parts)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Crafting the Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce

The heart and soul of our “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta” truly lies in its signature sauce. This creamy, spicy, and subtly sweet concoction is what brings all the elements together into a symphony of flavor. I always suggest making the sauce first, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you prepare the other components. Plus, it’s one less thing to worry about when you’re ready to assemble!

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, measure out your ¾ cup of full-fat mayonnaise. I’ve found that using a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise is non-negotiable here; it provides the rich, silky base that truly makes the sauce shine. If you can get your hands on Kewpie mayo, I highly recommend it for an extra layer of umami and creaminess that is simply divine. To this, add your ¼ cup of sweet chili sauce. This provides that essential sweet and tangy backbone, along with a mild warmth.

Introduce the Spice and Sweetness: Next, carefully measure in 2 tablespoons of Sriracha. Now, this is your moment to customize! If you’re a spice fiend like me, you might want to add a little more Sriracha. If you prefer a milder heat, start with 1 tablespoon and taste before adding more. Remember, you can always add, but you can’t take away! Follow with 1 tablespoon of honey. The honey helps to balance the heat from the Sriracha and the tang from the sweet chili sauce, adding a lovely, rounded sweetness. If you don’t have honey, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives, though they will impart a slightly different flavor profile.
Add the Depth of Flavor: Pour in 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. This is crucial for adding a bright, acidic lift that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise and balances the sweetness. Make sure it’s unseasoned rice vinegar, as the seasoned variety often contains added sugar and salt that can throw off your carefully balanced flavors. A teaspoon of toasted sesame oil goes in next. This ingredient is a powerhouse of nutty, aromatic flavor and instantly transports you to an Asian-inspired culinary landscape. Its distinctive aroma is key to the “Bang Bang” experience.
The Garlic Factor: Finally, add your 2 cloves of finely minced garlic. For the smoothest sauce, I often use a microplane to grate the garlic directly into the bowl; this ensures no chunky bits and maximum garlic distribution.

Whisk Until Smooth: Using a whisk, vigorously combine all the ingredients in the bowl. Continue whisking until the sauce is completely smooth, creamy, and uniform in color. There should be no streaks of individual ingredients visible. It’s important to achieve a perfectly emulsified sauce for the best texture and flavor distribution in your “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta.”
Taste and Adjust: Now for the most important part – taste testing! Dip a clean spoon into the sauce and give it a try. Is it spicy enough for you? Too sweet? Does it need more tang? This is your opportunity to tweak the flavors to your personal preference. You might want to add a pinch more Sriracha for heat, a tiny drizzle more honey for sweetness, or a splash more rice vinegar for acidity. Once you’re happy with the flavor profile, set the sauce aside. Allowing it to sit for a few minutes (or even while you prepare the rest of the meal) allows the flavors to deepen and meld even further.

Preparing and Cooking the Perfect Chicken for Your Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

The chicken component of our “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta” needs to be tender, juicy on the inside, and beautifully golden and slightly crisp on the outside. This texture contrast is vital against the creamy sauce and soft pasta.

Prepare the Chicken: Take your 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. If using breasts, I often find it helpful to slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets, about ½ to ¾ inch thick. This ensures more even and quicker cooking. If using thighs, trim any excess fat. Pat the chicken very dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear and a crispy exterior; moisture is the enemy of browning!
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of paprika. Mix these spices together. Evenly sprinkle this seasoning blend over both sides of the chicken pieces. Gently rub it in to ensure good coverage.
Coat with Cornstarch: Place the 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a shallow dish. One by one, dredge each seasoned chicken piece lightly in the cornstarch, ensuring it’s evenly coated but not heavily caked. Shake off any excess. The cornstarch coating is a little trick I picked up to give the chicken a fantastic, subtle crispness when pan-fried, which really enhances the texture of your “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta.” It also helps to create a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet (cast iron or a heavy-bottomed non-stick pan works best) over medium-high heat. Add 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or your chosen high-smoke-point oil). Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers and just begins to show very wisps of smoke. This indicates it’s hot enough for a good sear.
Cook the Chicken: Carefully place the cornstarch-coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature, steam the chicken instead of searing it, and prevent that desirable golden crust.
- Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is beautifully golden-brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a clean cutting board.
Rest the Chicken: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing or dicing. This resting period is incredibly important as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every piece of chicken in your “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta” remains tender and juicy. If you cut it immediately, the juices will run out, leaving you with dry chicken.
Slice or Dice: After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces or thin strips, whichever you prefer for mixing into your pasta.

Mastering the Pasta for Your Bang Bang Chicken Pasta Dish

While the chicken is resting, it’s the perfect time to get your pasta cooked. The pasta is the canvas for our flavorful sauce and chicken, so cooking it just right is essential.

Bring Water to a Boil: Fill a large pot with at least 4-6 quarts of water. Place it over high heat and bring it to a rolling boil. A large amount of water allows the pasta to cook freely without sticking and helps maintain the water temperature when the pasta is added.
Season the Water: Once the water is boiling vigorously, add 1 tablespoon of salt. Don’t be shy with the salt; the pasta water should taste like the sea! This is the only opportunity you have to season the pasta itself from the inside out, which is vital for the overall flavor of your “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta.”

Add the Pasta: Carefully add your 12-16 oz of long pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine) to the boiling salted water. Stir immediately to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Cook to Al Dente: Cook the pasta according to the package directions, but aim for an “al dente” texture. This means it should be firm to the bite, with a slight resistance in the center, but not hard or crunchy. Overcooked, mushy pasta will negatively impact the entire dish, especially with a creamy sauce. I always start checking a minute or two before the suggested cooking time.
Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining the pasta, reserve about 1 to 1.5 cups of the starchy pasta cooking water. This is a game-changer for creamy pasta sauces! The starch in the water helps to emulsify the sauce and allows it to cling beautifully to the pasta, creating that velvety finish we’re looking for in our “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta.”

Drain the Pasta: Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta, as this washes away the beneficial starches that help the sauce adhere.

Assembling Your Delicious Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

Now for the grand finale – bringing all these wonderful components together to create your spectacular “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta!” This is where the magic happens and flavors truly intertwine.

Combine Sauce and Pasta: Return the drained pasta to the large, empty pot (or a very large mixing bowl). Pour the prepared Bang Bang sauce generously over the hot pasta.

Emulsify and Coat: Add about ½ cup of the reserved pasta water to the pot with the sauce and pasta. Using tongs or a large spoon, toss the pasta vigorously. The heat from the pasta, combined with the starchy pasta water, will help to thin out the sauce slightly and create a wonderfully creamy, cohesive coating that perfectly adheres to every strand of pasta. If the sauce seems too thick, add more pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You want the sauce to be luxurious and clingy, not watery.
Integrate the Chicken: Gently fold in the sliced or diced cooked chicken pieces into the pasta and sauce mixture. Ensure the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta.” You want every forkful to have a bit of that delicious chicken!
Final Taste and Adjust: Give the entire dish a final taste. Does it need a tiny pinch more salt? Perhaps another dash of Sriracha if you’re feeling bold? Adjust any seasonings to your liking before serving.

Garnish and Serve: Divide the hot “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta” among serving plates. For an extra flourish and burst of freshness, sprinkle each serving generously with chopped fresh cilantro, thinly sliced green onions, and a scattering of toasted sesame seeds. The fresh herbs really brighten up the dish and add a wonderful aromatic contrast to the rich sauce.

Enjoying Your Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

This dish is truly best enjoyed immediately, while the pasta is hot and the sauce is at its creamiest. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and that incredibly flavorful Bang Bang sauce makes for an unforgettable meal that is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. It’s comforting, exciting, and wonderfully satisfying. For those who love a slight crunch, a sprinkle of crushed peanuts could also be a delightful addition, though not traditional to the pure “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta” profile, it adds another layer of texture.

Leftovers, if you have any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

I hope you enjoy making and devouring this “Bang Bang Chicken Pasta” as much as I do!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it – my absolute favorite recipe for a dish that consistently wows everyone who tries it. I truly believe that this isn’t just another meal; it’s an experience. The incredible fusion of flavors, from the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce to the tender, succulent chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creates a symphony on your palate that is both comforting and exciting. It’s familiar yet refreshingly new, making it a standout option for any occasion. This is precisely why I consider this Bang Bang Chicken Pasta a definitive must-try. It strikes that perfect balance of being gourmet enough to impress guests at a special dinner gathering, yet straightforward and quick enough to whip up for a satisfying weeknight meal after a long day. Trust me, once you experience the delightful interplay of textures and the explosion of taste, you’ll understand why it’s become such a cherished staple in my kitchen and why I’m so incredibly excited for you to discover its unique magic. It’s a dish that truly delivers on all fronts – flavor, ease, and sheer deliciousness.

Elevate Your Meal: Serving Suggestions to Perfect Your Plate

While this Bang Bang Chicken Pasta dish is undeniably fantastic and utterly satisfying all on its own, there are several thoughtful ways you can further elevate the dining experience and turn a great meal into an extraordinary one. I often find that serving my pasta with a simple, crisp green salad, lightly dressed with a zesty vinaigrette, provides a wonderful and much-needed counterpoint to the rich, creamy notes of the pasta. The freshness of the greens cuts through the richness beautifully, offering a palate cleanse with every bite. Another excellent accompaniment, particularly if you’re a fan of soaking up every last bit of that luscious sauce (and who isn’t?), is a basket of warm, crusty garlic bread or a perfectly toasted baguette. It’s the ideal tool for ensuring not a single drop of that incredible sauce goes to waste! For something a little different, consider adding a side of steamed and lightly seasoned broccoli, green beans, or sautéed asparagus. The slight bitterness and vibrant color of these vegetables add another layer of sophistication and nutritional value to your plate. And don’t underestimate the power of a simple, fresh garnish: a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh cilantro, vibrant green onions, a scattering of crushed peanuts, or even a drizzle of chili oil just before serving can add both visual appeal and a delightful burst of fresh flavor and texture, transforming your dining experience into something truly memorable and special.

Creative Twists: Endless Variations to Make It Your Own

One of the aspects I cherish most about cooking is the inherent freedom to experiment, adapt, and ultimately make a recipe truly your own. This Bang Bang Chicken Pasta recipe is incredibly versatile, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to unleash your culinary creativity and play around with it! If chicken isn’t your preferred protein, or if you simply fancy a change, feel free to substitute it with something else. Succulent shrimp, quickly pan-fried until pink and tender and then tossed in at the very end, would be absolutely divine. For those seeking fantastic vegetarian or vegan alternatives, firm tofu or tempeh, pressed, cubed, and then pan-fried until wonderfully crispy, absorb the sauce beautifully and provide a delightful texture. If you’re looking to sneak in extra vegetables, consider sautéing some colorful bell peppers, finely shredded carrots, snow peas, or even a handful of fresh spinach, which will wilt down perfectly into the hot pasta and sauce, adding nutrients and visual appeal. You can also easily adjust the spice level to perfectly match your palate; add more Sriracha, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra fiery kick, or reduce them for a milder, more subtle flavor profile. For those with dietary considerations, a good quality gluten-free pasta works wonderfully without compromising the dish, and for a dairy-free option, you can experiment with plant-based creams and milks in the sauce – just be mindful of achieving the desired consistency. The true beauty of this recipe lies in its remarkable adaptability, allowing you to tailor it perfectly to your specific tastes, dietary needs, and whatever ingredients you happen to have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative; sometimes the most delicious discoveries happen when you venture a little outside the original instructions!

Your Turn to Shine: Try it and Share Your Experience!

Now that I’ve generously shared all my best secrets, tips, and serving suggestions for this phenomenal dish, it’s officially your turn! I genuinely hope you feel completely inspired and motivated to head into your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this incredible recipe a try this week. I promise you, the minimal effort required is utterly insignificant compared to the immense reward of flavor and satisfaction you’ll receive. Imagine the delighted smiles around your dinner table when you proudly present this vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying pasta dish. Don’t just take my enthusiastic word for it – experience the culinary magic yourself! When you do make it, I would absolutely love, love, love to hear all about your experience. Did you add a unique and creative twist of your own? What was your favorite part of the dish? Please, snap a gorgeous photo of your culinary masterpiece and share it! Your feedback, your shared creations, and your personal stories truly brighten my day and continuously inspire me to keep sharing more delicious ideas and recipes with you. So go ahead, embrace the joy of cooking, turn on some of your favorite music, and create something truly delicious and memorable. I can’t wait to hear how much you loved your homemade Bang Bang Chicken Pasta!