0 Shares

The first bite of a Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Bun is pure bliss—crunchy, juicy, and packed with flavor, all wrapped in a soft, pillowy bun. Imagine the sizzle as the marinated chicken kisses hot oil, transforming into crispy perfection while the secret ingredient, vodka, works its magic to intensify every mouthwatering bite. This recipe is my go-to for gatherings, culinary adventures, or simply when I crave something that dances on my palate.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a seasoned chef looking for a playful twist, or someone trying to escape the mundane fast-food routine, these bao buns are the ultimate solution. They take minimal effort and deliver maximum satisfaction—always an impressive addition to any meal. With a zing from coconut sriracha mayo and a refreshing crunch from pickled red onions, each morsel transports you to a vibrant street food market.

Get ready to elevate your cooking game as we dive into this exciting journey of flavors and textures with these Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns!

Why are Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns a must-try?

Crispy, Crunchy Goodness: Each bite delivers an exhilarating contrast between the fried chicken and soft bao.
Unique Twist: The addition of vodka in the marinade creates an unmatched depth of flavor.
Quick to Assemble: Perfect for busy days, they come together easily in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Great for parties or family dinners, they’re sure to impress everyone at the table.
Flavor Versatility: Try different sauces or fillings to keep things fresh and exciting!

Whether you’re looking to impress or just want to enjoy an incredible dish, these bao buns are the perfect way to bring bold flavors to your table!

Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

Boneless Chicken Thighs – The star of the dish; opt for skin-on or skinless based on your preference for juiciness.
Coconut Sriracha – Adds a delightful heat; feel free to use regular sriracha for a milder flavor.
Chili Powder – Sparks up the spice; adjust the amount for your desired heat level.
Garlic Powder – Brings in savory depth; swap for fresh garlic if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Sweet Paprika – Adds a hint of sweetness and vibrant color to the chicken.
Vodka – Enhances flavor and tenderness; replace it with chicken stock for a non-alcoholic alternative.

For the Coating and Frying

Plain Flour (All-Purpose Flour) – Creates that irresistible crisp; gluten-free flour works for a gluten-free option.
Vegetable Oil – Essential for frying; can substitute with any high-heat oil like canola or sunflower oil.
Sea Salt – A simple touch that enhances the flavors of the fried chicken.

For the Bao Buns

Bao Buns – Soft and fluffy carriers for your delicious filling; use store-bought for convenience or make your own.

For the Pickled Red Onion

Red Onion – Provides acidity and a lovely pop of color; it beautifully offsets the richness of the chicken.
White Sugar – Balances the tartness; leave it out if you prefer a tangy kick without sweetness.
White Vinegar – Adds necessary tartness; feel free to experiment with other vinegars for different profiles.

For the Coconut Sriracha Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise – Forms a creamy base for the sauce; replace it with vegan mayo for a plant-based option.
Coconut Sriracha – Boosts the flavor in the mayo; use standard sriracha if coconut isn’t your thing.

Dive into this flavorful adventure with Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns that you and your loved ones will crave time and again!

How to Make Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns

Prepare Pickled Red Onion:
Combine sliced red onion, white sugar, and white vinegar in a bowl. Mix well and let it sit for at least 10 minutes to achieve a tangy flavor.
Make Coconut Sriracha Mayo:
In a small mixing bowl, stir together mayonnaise and coconut sriracha until well combined. Set this creamy concoction aside for later.
Marinate Chicken:
Place boneless chicken thighs in a large bowl. Add coconut sriracha, chili powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and vodka. Ensure everything is well mixed. Marinate for a minimum of 10 minutes or, for best results, overnight.
Coat Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken and dredge it in plain flour, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. This will give your chicken that desired crunchy exterior.
Heat Oil:
In a wok or deep saucepan, heat vegetable oil to 320°F (170°C). This is the perfect temperature for frying, as it helps achieve a crisp outer layer.
Fry Chicken:
Carefully add half of the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Fry them for about 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt. Repeat this step with the remaining chicken.
Assemble Bao Buns:
Spread a generous layer of the coconut sriracha mayo inside each bao bun. Fill with the crispy fried chicken, drizzle with extra sriracha, and top with pickled red onion and spring onions for added crunch.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs or sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns Variations

Feel free to play with the flavors and ingredients for a personalized touch that will make your bao buns even more delightful!

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken thighs with crispy tofu for a satisfying and plant-based alternative. Simple yet scrumptious!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a coating replacement to create a crispy texture without the gluten.
Sauce Swap: Try using a spicy kimchi mayo or zesty garlic aioli for a fresh twist that can elevate your bao experience.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into your chicken marinade for an aromatic burst of flavor.
Heat Levels: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick if you crave some serious heat.
Crunch Boost: Incorporate shredded carrots or daikon in the pickle mix to introduce more crunch and flavor complexity.
Alternative Buns: Swap traditional bao buns for lettuce wraps or rice paper for a lighter, delightful presentation.
Fruit Addition: For a unique twist, add slices of mango or pineapple in the bao for a sweet and savory pairing that adds freshness.

What to Serve with Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns?

Creating a complete meal around these delightful bao buns lets you explore exciting flavors and textures.

Asian-Inspired Coleslaw:
Crisp and refreshing, this slaw adds a crunchy contrast and enhances the bao’s spicy elements. The tangy dressing plays well with the richness of the fried chicken.
Mango Sticky Rice:
A sweet dessert to round off the savory experience, its creamy texture perfectly balances the bold flavors of the dumplings. Each bite of sticky rice provides a comforting finale.
Chili Garlic Edamame:
These bite-sized gems are perfect for snacking while you enjoy your bao buns. Their umami-rich flavor complements the spicy chicken beautifully and adds a fun interactive element.
Coconut Curry Soup:
A warm and fragrant soup pairs wonderfully with the bao buns. The creamy, coconut base enhances the richness, while the spices echo the heat found in the chicken.
Craft Beer Pairing:
A light IPA or wheat beer helps cut through the richness of the fried chicken. The bitterness and subtle fruity notes harmonize with the spice of the sriracha mayo.
Chilled Green Tea:
This refreshing drink adds an earthy balance to your meal. Its subtle flavors cleanse the palate, making every bite of bao even more enjoyable.

Let your taste buds embark on a vibrant journey as you explore these exciting accompaniments!

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns

Room Temperature: Store leftover bao buns at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 hours. They are best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.

Fridge: Place any leftover spicy fried chicken and bao buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness before serving.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual spicy fried chicken bao buns tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen bao buns, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Expert Tips for Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oil is heated to 320°F (170°C) before frying. This prevents sogginess and ensures that the chicken becomes perfectly crispy.
Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the coconut sriracha mixture. This will enhance the taste and tenderness of the chicken.
Coat Evenly: When dredging the chicken in flour, make sure each piece is fully coated. This helps create that delightful crunchy texture on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the frying pan as this can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to achieve golden brown, crispy chicken.
Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the pickled red onion and spring onions; they add necessary crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the spicy fried chicken bao buns.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to enhance its flavor. Simply combine the boneless chicken thighs with coconut sriracha, chili powder, garlic powder, sweet paprika, and vodka, and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. The pickled red onions can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead for a zesty touch. When you’re ready for serving, just coat and fry the marinated chicken and assemble the bao buns with the coconut sriracha mayo and pickled onions. This way, you’ll have delicious, restaurant-quality bao buns ready in no time, making busy weeknights a breeze!

Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing your boneless chicken thighs, look for meat that feels firm and has a vibrant pink color without any dark spots. For the red onions, select ones that are firm and have smooth, shiny skin. Fresh coconut sriracha should be near the sauces section in the store; check the expiration date for optimal flavor.

How should I store leftovers of Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns?
You can keep any leftover spicy fried chicken and bao buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back their delightful crispiness, ensuring they remain as tasty as when they were first made.

Can I freeze the Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each individual spicy fried chicken bao bun tightly in plastic wrap, and then wrap them again in aluminum foil. This method helps prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in the oven to bring back all that crunch!

What if my fried chicken isn’t crispy?
Very! To ensure a crispy finish, it’s essential to keep an eye on the oil temperature. If it’s not hot enough, the chicken may absorb oil and become soggy. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil at 320°F (170°C) for perfect frying. Also, making sure the chicken pieces are evenly coated in flour before frying helps lock in that crunch!

Are there any dietary considerations for Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns?
Yes, if you have dietary restrictions, you can customize this recipe with ease. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour for coating. To make it vegetarian, swap the chicken for tofu or cauliflower. You can also avoid the vodka if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version—simply substitute it with chicken stock or water for a similar tenderizing effect.

How long do pickled ingredients last?
Pickled red onions can be stored in the fridge for about 2-3 days in an airtight container after making them. However, if you’re using other pickled vegetables, such as carrots or daikon, their shelf life will vary, generally around the same 2-3 days for freshest taste. Enjoy the zing while it lasts!