If you are craving a dish that perfectly blends creamy, spicy, and savory flavors, then Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need on your dinner table tonight. This irresistibly vibrant pasta combines tender chicken morsels with a luscious bang bang sauce, boasting a delightful kick from sriracha and the sweetness of chili sauce. Every bite bursts with excitement, marrying the comforting texture of penne with bold, tongue-tingling flavors that will have you reaching for seconds. Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is an absolute showstopper, quickly becoming a beloved favorite whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself.

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color for this Bang Bang Chicken Pasta. From the tender chicken and al dente pasta to the creamy, spicy sauce, every element will come together effortlessly to make your kitchen smell heavenly.

12 oz (340 g) penne pasta: The ideal pasta shape for holding onto that creamy bang bang sauce with every forkful.
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender and juicy protein that soaks up all the savory flavors.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For a perfect golden sear on the chicken, adding subtle richness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors while seasoning both the chicken and pasta.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth that complements the sauce’s spice.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of our signature bang bang sauce, bringing softness and depth.
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: Balances heat with sweetness for that addictive kick.
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce: Brings bright, fiery heat that makes this dish come alive.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds fragrant, savory notes that elevate every bite.
2 green onions, sliced: For freshness and a pop of vibrant green at the end.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): A lovely herbal touch to brighten the dish and add color.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta Perfectly

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until just al dente—that tender but firm bite is crucial because you don’t want mushy pasta washing out the bold flavors of the sauce later. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside, ready for the sauce to do its magic.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

While the pasta cooks, season your bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until every piece boasts a golden crust and is cooked through. The caramelization on that chicken is what makes every forkful satisfyingly rich.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, bring together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and minced garlic. Whisk these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This sauce is the heart and soul of your Bang Bang Chicken Pasta. It balances spicy, sweet, and creamy in a way that’s utterly addictive and totally unique from any other pasta sauce out there.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Return your cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken over low heat. Pour the bang bang sauce directly over the top and gently toss everything together, making sure every piece of pasta and chicken is gleaming with that gorgeous sauce. Heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add the Final Touches

Just before serving, sprinkle the sliced green onions and optional chopped parsley over your pasta. These garnishes add fresh contrast both in flavor and appearance, making your Bang Bang Chicken Pasta shine as a colorful comfort meal.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like sliced green onions and fresh parsley add bright pops of color and subtle freshness that balance the richness of the pasta. Crushed peanuts or a drizzle of extra sriracha can also elevate textures and heat, providing an exciting twist for those who want a little more crunch or spice.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed in light vinaigrette to cut through the sauce’s richness. Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or asparagus also complement Bang Bang Chicken Pasta by adding earthiness and varying textures for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun, crowd-pleasing presentation, serve Bang Bang Chicken Pasta in colorful bowls or on large platters topped with extra herbs and chili flakes. You can even prepare it as a pasta salad, letting the flavors marinate slightly chilled for an irresistible summer twist full of bold bang bang flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store your Bang Bang Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it if needed. Arrange the pasta and chicken mixture in a freezer-safe container and enjoy it within 1 to 2 months for optimal flavor and texture. Be aware that the creamy sauce might change consistency slightly after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the Bang Bang Chicken Pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works as well, but stir occasionally to evenly distribute the heat and keep the sauce silky smooth.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While penne is great for holding onto the sauce, you can use fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just make sure the pasta shape complements the creamy, thick sauce.

How spicy is this Bang Bang Chicken Pasta?

The sriracha and sweet chili sauce give it a pleasant kick that’s not overwhelming. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha based on your spice tolerance.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Bang Bang Chicken Pasta stores well in the fridge and tastes great reheated, making it a perfect choice for batch cooking and having delicious meals ready throughout the week.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the sauce?

Yes, you can try Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter twist, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Mayonnaise gives the best classic bang bang texture, but feel free to experiment.

What is the best way to add more veggies to this dish?

Stir in sautéed bell peppers, snap peas, or shredded carrots when adding the chicken for added crunch and nutrition. Roasted or steamed vegetables on the side also make excellent accompaniments.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is such a delightful surprise for the taste buds — creamy, spicy, and completely comforting all at once. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something impressive but fuss-free. Trust me, once you try it, Bang Bang Chicken Pasta will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for busy nights and casual get-togethers alike. So grab your skillet, whip up that vibrant sauce, and treat yourself to a meal that’s both cozy and exciting!

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 17 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

Bang Bang Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and creamy dish that combines tender, seasoned chicken with perfectly cooked penne pasta, all tossed in a spicy, sweet, and garlicky bang bang sauce. This dish offers a delightful balance of creamy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a kick of sriracha, garnished with fresh green onions and parsley for added freshness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch, this recipe is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes) until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Make the bang bang sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and minced garlic until smooth and well combined.
Toss pasta and chicken: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken. Pour the bang bang sauce over the pasta and chicken, then toss everything together gently to coat evenly and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Adjust the amount of sriracha sauce to control the spiciness of the dish.
For a healthier version, use light mayonnaise or substitute with Greek yogurt.
Fresh parsley adds a nice bright flavor, but you can omit if unavailable.
Cook chicken thoroughly to ensure safety and best texture.
Sweet chili sauce can be found in most Asian grocery stores or the international aisle of supermarkets.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing, Boiling
Cuisine: Fusion, American-Asian