Crispy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Bites

Instructions

Air fryer:200°C / 392°F

1. 1

   Preheat the air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes. If your model runs hot, use 190°C and add 1–2 minutes as needed.

2. 2

   Set up three shallow bowls. Mix the flour, cornflour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt and pepper in the first bowl. Put the beaten eggs in the second. Toss the panko with the oil in the third so the crumbs are lightly coated.

3. 3

   Pat the chicken dry. Coat a few pieces at a time in the flour mixture, dip in egg, then press firmly into the panko. Place on a plate while you bread the rest.

4. 4

   Arrange the chicken bites in a single layer in the air-fryer basket with a little space between pieces. Cook in batches if needed; crowded chicken will steam instead of crisp.

5. 5

   Air fry for 9–12 minutes, turning or shaking gently after 6 minutes, until the coating is golden and the thickest pieces reach 74°C/165°F internally.

6. 6

   While the chicken cooks, stir together the mayonnaise, sweet chilli sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice and grated garlic in a clean bowl. Do not use any bowls or utensils that touched raw chicken.

7. 7

   Let the chicken rest for 2 minutes so the coating firms up. Drizzle with bang bang sauce for maximum crunch, or toss lightly with just enough sauce to coat. Serve with spring onions and lime wedges.