Print

Crispy Chicken Bao Buns

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Crispy Chicken Bao Buns are soft, fluffy steamed buns filled with crunchy fried chicken, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. This easy bao bun recipe delivers the perfect balance of crispy, creamy, and fresh textures, making it ideal for appetizers, street food-style meals, or fun family dinners.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

  • Bao buns (store-bought or homemade)
  • Chicken thighs or breast
  • Buttermilk or milk
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cornstarch
  • Egg
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Oil (for frying)

For the sauce:

  • Mayonnaise
  • Chili sauce or sriracha
  • Honey
  • Soy sauce
  • Lime juice

For toppings:

  • Cucumber (sliced or pickled)
  • Carrot (julienned)
  • Red cabbage (shredded)
  • Fresh coriander
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

  • Marinate chicken in buttermilk with salt and spices for at least 30 minutes.
  • In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and seasoning to create the coating.
  • Remove chicken from marinade, dip in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly in the flour mixture.
  • Heat oil in a deep pan and fry chicken until golden, crispy, and cooked through.
  • Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, and lime juice to make the sauce.
  • Steam bao buns until soft and warm.
  • Slice crispy chicken into bite-sized pieces.
  • Open each bao bun and spread sauce inside.
  • Add chicken, then top with cucumber, carrot, cabbage, and coriander.
  • Sprinkle with sesame seeds and drizzle with extra sauce if desired.
  • Serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Notes

Fry chicken in batches to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.Use an air fryer or oven for a lighter version, though frying gives the best crunch.Keep buns covered after steaming to prevent drying out.Assemble just before serving to avoid soggy buns.Easily adaptable with tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian option.

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/crispy-chicken-bao-buns/