Bang bang chicken

Bon bon chicken with sauce

Bang bang chicken (Chinese: 棒棒鸡; pinyin: bàng bàng jī

) is a popular Chinese dish originating from the Sichuan province. It is known for its distinctive flavor, which combines the spiciness of Sichuan pepper with a savory and slightly sweet sauce. The dish is named after the sound made when the chicken is pounded with a wooden stick to tenderize the meat.

Preparation

The preparation of bang bang chicken involves poaching chicken breasts until they are tender. Once cooked, the chicken is shredded into thin strips. The name "bang bang" comes from the traditional method of pounding the chicken with a wooden stick to achieve the desired texture.

The shredded chicken is then mixed with a flavorful sauce made from ingredients such as sesame paste, soy sauce, vinegar, chili oil, sugar, and garlic. The dish is often garnished with scallions, coriander, and sesame seeds.

Serving

Bang bang chicken is typically served cold as an appetizer or a light main course. It is a popular dish in both restaurants and home cooking in China. The dish is often accompanied by cucumber slices or other fresh vegetables to balance the spiciness of the sauce.

Cultural Significance

In Sichuan cuisine, bang bang chicken is a well-loved dish that showcases the region's characteristic use of bold flavors and spices. It is a testament to the culinary creativity and tradition of Sichuan chefs.

Variations

There are several variations of bang bang chicken, with some recipes incorporating additional ingredients such as peanut butter or hoisin sauce to modify the flavor profile. Some versions may also include noodles or be served as part of a larger salad.

See also

• Sichuan cuisine
• Chinese cuisine
• List of Chinese dishes
• Chicken dishes