Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let’s be honest—some recipes hit all the right notes, and Keto Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are exactly that. Here’s why you’ll absolutely fall in love:
1. Bold Flavor Explosion
Tangy, spicy, and creamy—this dish gives your tastebuds a VIP ticket to flavor town! The combo of garlic, chili, and sriracha is unforgettable.
2. Keto-Friendly & Low Carb
With only 2 net carbs per serving, this meal fits perfectly into your ketogenic lifestyle without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
3. Quick and Easy to Make
Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen—or a long list of ingredients.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
These chicken thighs reheat beautifully and are great in salads, wraps, or over cauliflower rice. Say hello to leftovers you’ll actually look forward to!
🎉 Introduction: Let’s Talk Bang Bang!
We all know that moment when you take a bite and your eyes go wide. That’s the power of Bang Bang—a zesty, spicy sauce with just the right amount of creaminess. Originating from Asian-inspired flavors and famously used in shrimp dishes, the Bang Bang sauce has now made its mark on juicy chicken thighs, and the result is absolutely mouthwatering.
But wait, we’ve made it keto! Yes, no sugar-loaded sauces here. We’re talking sugar-free sweet chili sauce, sugar-free honey, and a perfectly balanced mayo base that keeps you in ketosis and your taste buds dancing.
So grab your skillet, spice up your evening, and let’s cook something unforgettable. These Keto Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are your next go-to dinner!
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the beauty of this recipe—it uses simple, accessible ingredients while delivering gourmet-level flavor.
For the Chicken:
- 🍗 5 Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
Juicy, tender, and packed with protein. - 🧂 2 tbsp Olive Oil
For searing and locking in flavor. - 🌶️ 1 tsp Paprika
Adds smokiness and color. - 🧄 1 tsp Garlic Powder
Because garlic makes everything better. - 🧅 1 tsp Onion Powder
Deepens the flavor profile. - 🧂 Salt and Pepper to taste
For the Keto Bang Bang Sauce:
- 🥫 ½ cup Mayonnaise
The creamy base of your sauce. - 🌶️ ¼ cup Sugar-Free Sweet Chili Sauce
Brings that signature tangy, spicy kick. - 🍯 1 tbsp Sugar-Free Honey
A touch of sweetness without the carbs. - 🌶️ 2 tsp Sriracha Sauce
Adds the perfect level of heat. - 🧂 Salt and Pepper to taste
👩🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Keto Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove moisture. This helps them sear beautifully and get that nice golden crust.
Step 2: Season Like a Pro
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mix all over the chicken thighs on both sides.
Step 3: Sear to Perfection
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs into the skillet and sear for 6–7 minutes per side, or until they’re browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
Step 4: Remove Excess Grease
Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Carefully drain any excess oil or grease from the skillet without removing the chicken.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
While the chicken rests in the pan, combine ½ cup mayo, ¼ cup sugar-free chili sauce, 1 tbsp sugar-free honey, and 2 tsp sriracha in a small bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Add the Sauce to the Skillet
Pour the sauce directly into the skillet with the chicken. Toss the thighs gently to coat them fully in the warm, spicy sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Savor!
Serve immediately while the sauce is thick and velvety. Each bite should be rich, spicy, and absolutely satisfying.
🍽️ How to Serve Keto Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Presentation and pairing can take your dinner from simple to restaurant-worthy. Here are some delicious ideas:
1. Over Cauliflower Rice
The creamy sauce mingles perfectly with fluffy cauliflower rice. It soaks up all the flavor!
2. With Zucchini Noodles
Add a refreshing crunch and low-carb twist with spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil and garlic.
3. In a Lettuce Wrap
Tuck the chicken into romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a light, crunchy wrap that’s great for lunch or appetizers.
4. With Roasted Veggies
Pair with keto-friendly roasted veggies like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.
5. On a Keto Bun
Make a spicy keto chicken sandwich! Just grab a low-carb bun, add slaw or pickles, and dig in.
🧊 Storage and Leftovers: How to Keep It Fresh
Got leftovers? Great! These chicken thighs are even better the next day.
🌡️ Refrigerator
- Storage Time: Up to 4 days
- Storage Tip: Use an airtight container and store the sauce and chicken together to keep it moist.
❄️ Freezer
- Storage Time: Up to 2 months
- Freezing Tip: Freeze in single portions for easy reheating. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
🔁 Reheating
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Add a spoonful of mayo or extra sauce if it looks dry.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breasts work fine, though they may be a bit drier. Just be careful not to overcook.
2. Is Bang Bang Sauce normally keto-friendly?
Traditional versions are not, but our version is 100% keto, thanks to sugar-free chili sauce and honey substitutes.
3. What brand of sugar-free sweet chili sauce should I use?
Look for brands like G Hughes or Nature’s Hollow. Check for 0–2g net carbs per serving.
4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is already dairy-free unless you’re using a mayo brand with dairy. Always double-check the label.
5. Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild kick. Want it spicier? Add more sriracha or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
6. Can I make this in the oven?
Yes! Bake the seasoned chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes, then toss with warm sauce before serving.
7. What’s a good substitute for mayo?
You can use Greek yogurt if you’re not strict keto, or avocado mayo for a richer, healthier option.
8. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, but searing raw chicken gives better flavor. If using pre-cooked, warm it in the skillet before adding the sauce.
9. What can I serve with this to make it a full meal?
Try adding a keto coleslaw, mashed cauliflower, or a side salad with avocado.
10. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Totally! Store in meal prep containers with a veggie side and reheat throughout the week.
✨ Final Thoughts: Your New Keto Addiction!
Keto Bang Bang Chicken Thighs aren’t just another low-carb dinner—they’re a bold, satisfying, crave-worthy experience that makes staying on keto feel indulgent. With minimal effort and max flavor, you’ll find yourself putting this one on repeat.
The next time you need a quick, satisfying meal that excites your taste buds and fits your macros, you know what to cook. 🔥