If you’ve ever been to the famous restaurant serving the “Chicka Licka Bam Bam,” you know just how irresistible this dish is. It’s spicy, flavorful, and has a perfect balance of crunch and creaminess. But what if you could make this mouth-watering treat at home?
In this blog post, we’re going to walk you through the Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe step by step. You’ll learn how to recreate this popular dish in the comfort of your own kitchen, with a few simple ingredients and minimal effort.
Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s packed with flavor, heat, and a bit of crunch. This Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe will soon become your go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. Let’s dive in!
What is the Chicka Licka Bam Bam Dish?
Before we jump into the Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe, let’s break down what makes this dish so special. The original Chicka Licka Bam Bam is a crispy, seasoned chicken dish that is often paired with a spicy, creamy sauce.
It’s a popular option for those who love bold, spicy flavors with a creamy finish. The combination of crispy fried chicken and tangy sauce creates a perfect balance of heat and richness.
The good news is that you can replicate the deliciousness of this dish right at home with this Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe. Let’s get started!
Key Ingredients for the Chicka Licka Bam Bam Copycat Recipe
To make this Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. These ingredients can be easily found at your local grocery store, and they come together to create the crispy chicken and creamy, spicy sauce that makes this dish unforgettable.
For the Chicken:
- Boneless chicken thighs or chicken breasts: Chicken thighs are often preferred for their juiciness and tenderness, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer.
- All-purpose flour: For coating the chicken to give it a crispy exterior.
- Cornstarch: Helps to create an extra-crispy texture.
- Eggs: To bind the flour and cornstarch to the chicken.
- Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- Garlic powder and paprika: For an added kick of flavor.
- Oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
For the Sauce:
- Mayonnaise: This forms the creamy base of the sauce.
- Hot sauce: Adds the spicy heat that defines the Chicka Licka Bam Bam.
- Honey: Balances out the heat with a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic powder: Adds extra flavor depth to the sauce.
- Lemon juice: For a zesty, tangy finish.
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley: For a fresh, colorful topping.
- Sesame seeds: For extra crunch and flavor.
- Green onions: For an added burst of freshness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Chicka Licka Bam Bam Copycat Recipe
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into making this Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a flavorful and crispy dish in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
The first step in the Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe is to prepare the chicken. Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This ensures that the coating sticks better and results in a crispier exterior.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces: If you’re using boneless chicken thighs, cut them into chunks or strips. If using chicken breasts, slice them into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss the chicken well to ensure that every piece is coated in the seasonings.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
For that signature crispy texture in the Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe, you’ll need a good coating for the chicken.
- Dredge the chicken in flour: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it’s well-coated on all sides.
- Dip in the egg: In a separate bowl, whisk an egg or two. Dip the coated chicken pieces into the egg, ensuring each piece is fully covered.
- Coat again: After dipping the chicken in egg, dip it back into the flour and cornstarch mixture for an extra layer of crispiness.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Now it’s time to fry the chicken to golden perfection!
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat enough oil to submerge the chicken. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C). If you’re using a deep fryer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for frying temperatures.
- Fry the chicken: Carefully add the chicken pieces to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until it turns golden brown and crispy. If needed, fry the chicken in batches.
- Drain the chicken: Once the chicken is crispy and fully cooked (with an internal temperature of 165°F), transfer the pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Spicy Sauce
The sauce is the star of the Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe, so let’s make sure it’s packed with flavor!
- Combine the sauce ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, hot sauce, honey, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Adjust the flavor: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference. If you want more heat, add extra hot sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken in the Sauce
To give the chicken that signature flavor from the original Chicka Licka Bam Bam, toss the crispy chicken in the spicy sauce.
- Toss the chicken in the sauce: In a large bowl, add the crispy chicken and pour the prepared sauce over it. Gently toss the chicken until it’s evenly coated in the sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Once the chicken is coated, garnish it with chopped parsley, sesame seeds, or green onions for a fresh touch. Serve the Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe hot with a side of vegetables, rice, or fries.
Tips for the Best Chicka Licka Bam Bam Copycat Recipe
To ensure that your Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe turns out perfect every time, here are a few tips:
- Use boneless chicken thighs: While you can use chicken breasts, boneless chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a better option for this dish.
- Double coat the chicken: For an extra crispy coating, double coat the chicken by dipping it in flour, then egg, then flour again. This creates a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Fry at the right temperature: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F) to ensure that the chicken cooks properly and becomes golden and crispy without being greasy.
- Adjust the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of hot sauce in the recipe or use a milder variety. Conversely, if you love extra heat, go ahead and add more hot sauce.
Why You Should Try This Chicka Licka Bam Bam Copycat Recipe
If you’re a fan of spicy, crispy chicken with a creamy, tangy sauce, then this Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe is a must-try. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with flavor and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it extra spicy or with a touch more sweetness, this recipe is versatile and delicious.
Additionally, making your own version of this dish at home is a great way to save money while still enjoying your favorite flavors. Plus, you can ensure that the ingredients are fresh and of the highest quality, which is always a bonus!
Conclusion
This Chicka Licka Bam Bam copycat recipe is the perfect way to recreate a restaurant favorite right at home. With crispy chicken, a spicy creamy sauce, and plenty of flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or as a party appetizer, your guests will love the bold and satisfying taste of this homemade version of the popular Chicka Licka Bam Bam.