Bang Bang Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors yet comforting and easy to prepare, Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is here to save your dinner plans. This vibrant recipe brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked penne, and a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that strikes just the right balance of sweet heat and richness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent without being complicated, making it ideal for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together with friends. Prepare to fall in love with every bite of Bang Bang Chicken Pasta!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is all it takes to create this spectacular dish. Each component plays a vital role—pasta for heartiness, chicken for protein, and a zesty sauce to pull everything together with that iconic bang bang kick.

• 12 oz penne pasta: Choose penne for its perfect shape that catches the sauce and provides a satisfying bite.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds moisture and helps sauté the chicken to a golden perfection.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and pasta.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base of the bang bang sauce, giving it richness.
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: Brings a flavorful sweetness and mild spiciness to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce: Packs a punch with its vibrant heat, adjusting to your spice preference.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with an irresistible aromatic punch.
• 2 green onions, sliced: Adds a fresh, crisp bite and bright green color for garnish.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Provides a fresh herbal note and a pop of color.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside to keep it from clumping. This simple foundation ensures your dish has the perfect texture to soak up the delicious sauce.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season your bite-sized chicken pieces evenly with salt and black pepper for balanced flavor. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. This step is crucial for juicy, flavorful chicken that complements the sauce.

Step 3: Whisk Up the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and minced garlic. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well integrated. This creamy, spicy sauce is the heart of the Bang Bang Chicken Pasta experience, delivering a tantalizing mix of heat and sweetness that elevates the entire dish.

Step 4: Combine and Toss

Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Pour the bang bang sauce over the top and toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring each piece and pasta tube is beautifully coated. Give it a minute or two to warm through, allowing the sauce’s flavors to meld perfectly with every ingredient.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish your Bang Bang Chicken Pasta with a sprinkle of sliced green onions and fresh parsley if you like. These garnishes add a burst of freshness and a lovely visual contrast for serving. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture, letting the vibrant flavors shine on your plate.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Adding sliced green onions and chopped parsley is not just about looks; these garnishes introduce a crisp freshness that cuts through the creamy, spicy sauce. You can also toss on some toasted sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime juice for an extra zing.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta pairs marvelously with simple sides like steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. These accompaniments add balance and a bit of freshness, making your meal feel thoughtfully rounded without overshadowing the star dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Pasta in individual bowls with a sprinkle of extra sauce on top and a lime wedge on the side for guests to customize their kick. For a party, try layering it in a large, shallow serving dish topped with vibrant herbs and colorful veggies for a festive, inviting centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Storing it chilled helps the flavors meld even more, though the pasta may absorb some sauce, so be prepared to add a little splash of water or broth when reheating.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t ideal for this dish due to the creamy sauce’s texture, you can freeze cooked chicken and pasta separately for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before combining with freshly made bang bang sauce for the best experience.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the pasta gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a teaspoon of water or broth at a time to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent drying out, and try to reheat just once to maintain the dish’s creamy, saucy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for Bang Bang Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is recommended because it holds the sauce well, feel free to use rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.

How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken Pasta?

The heat level is moderate and adjustable, thanks to the combination of sweet chili sauce and sriracha. You can easily reduce the sriracha if you prefer a milder dish or add more for a fiery kick.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, Bang Bang Chicken Pasta works great for meal prep. Keep the sauce separate until ready to eat, if possible, to avoid soggy pasta. Add fresh garnishes just before serving for maximum flavor.

Can I use store-bought cooked chicken instead of fresh chicken breasts?

You can, but fresh-cooked chicken tends to give the best flavor and texture. If using precooked chicken, warm it gently and be mindful of seasoning to keep the dish flavorful.

Is Bang Bang Chicken Pasta gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap out the regular penne pasta for a gluten-free variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a versatile recipe for various dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of flavors and textures in every forkful. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or serving friends who appreciate bold, comforting meals, this recipe hits the spot perfectly. Give it a try, and get ready to make Bang Bang Chicken Pasta a fast favorite in your kitchen rotation!

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