Bang Bang Sauce is a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet condiment that elevates everything it touches—from crispy shrimp and chicken to grilled vegetables and rice bowls. Made with just four simple ingredients, this sauce is a staple for fans of bold, restaurant-style flavors at home. Whether you’re looking to spice up a weeknight dinner or serve a showstopping appetizer, Bang Bang Sauce is the perfect finishing touch. Its balance of sweet chili, creamy mayo, a hint of honey, and a kick of sriracha makes it incredibly versatile, crowd-pleasing, and dangerously addictive.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon honey
½ teaspoon sriracha
Directions
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, and sriracha. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. Use immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir again before serving if separated.
Nutrients (Per Tablespoon, Approximate)
Calories: 159 kcal
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 160mg
Carbohydrates: 6g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 0g
Why is It Called Bang Bang Sauce?
The name “Bang Bang” doesn’t actually refer to anything explosive in the ingredients, but rather to the bold, spicy kick that the sauce delivers—especially when made with sriracha or another type of chili sauce. Some say the term originates from the traditional Chinese dish “Bang Bang Chicken,” where meat was tenderized with a stick or mallet. However, the modern Western adaptation of Bang Bang Sauce focuses entirely on flavor—spicy, sweet, creamy, and tangy all in one.
How Bang Bang Sauce Became So Popular
Bang Bang Sauce became widely known due to restaurant chains like Bonefish Grill, which featured it on their beloved Bang Bang Shrimp. The sauce gained cult status among foodies, and its appeal spread across social media platforms where home cooks and food bloggers began experimenting with it in a variety of dishes. It’s now a must-try homemade sauce that enhances a wide range of recipes, from seafood and chicken to vegetarian bowls and tacos.
Versatility in the Kitchen
One of the main reasons for Bang Bang Sauce’s popularity is its remarkable versatility. It’s not just a dipping sauce—it’s a flavor booster that can be used in multiple ways:
Use it as a dip for fried shrimp, chicken tenders, or even fries
Drizzle it over grilled or air-fried meats
Toss it with pasta or vegetables for a spicy-sweet twist
Use it as a burger or sandwich spread
Add it to rice bowls, wraps, or tacos for an extra layer of flavor
Its adaptability makes it a go-to condiment for quick dinners, meal prep, or party snacks.
Customizing the Flavor
The beauty of Bang Bang Sauce is that it’s highly customizable. Whether you prefer more heat, more sweetness, or a more tangy bite, it’s easy to tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences. For those who like extra spice, adding more sriracha or swapping it with a hotter chili sauce does the trick. Prefer a more tangy version? A dash of rice vinegar or fresh lemon juice will brighten the flavor. Want it sweeter? A touch of honey or even maple syrup can make it pop. It’s a flexible canvas for anyone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen.
Variations You Can Try
While the original version is delightfully addictive, there are several creative ways to reinvent Bang Bang Sauce based on your meal or taste preferences. Some popular variations include:
Adding minced garlic for a bolder, savory punch
Incorporating rice wine vinegar to cut through the creaminess
Swapping mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier option
Using hot sauces like Tabasco or Frank’s Red Hot instead of sriracha
Blending in smoked paprika for a smoky depth
Each twist brings out a different aspect of the sauce, allowing you to tailor it to any dish or occasion.
Perfect Pairings for Bang Bang Sauce
The uses for Bang Bang Sauce are virtually endless, but here are a few especially popular pairings:
Bang Bang Shrimp: The classic pairing that started it all. Fried or air-fried shrimp coated in this sauce is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: Juicy grilled or roasted chicken skewers dipped or drizzled with the sauce make a fantastic appetizer or main dish.
Bang Bang Salmon: A generous coating of sauce on baked or air-fried salmon adds a creamy, spicy finish that elevates the fish.
Bang Bang Pasta: A comfort food twist where the sauce is tossed with pasta and proteins for a satisfying one-bowl meal.
Bang Bang Bowls: Serve it over rice or quinoa with vegetables, proteins, and garnishes for a vibrant lunch or dinner option.
These pairings showcase just how broadly you can use the sauce—from seafood and chicken to vegetarian dishes and beyond.
Why Homemade is Better
Making Bang Bang Sauce at home ensures that you know exactly what’s going into it—no preservatives or hidden ingredients. You can also make it fresh to suit the meal at hand and store any leftovers easily. Homemade versions often taste richer and fresher than store-bought or restaurant versions because you’re using real, simple ingredients. Plus, it only takes five minutes to whip together, which is faster than making most other condiments or dressings from scratch.
Storage Tips and Shelf Life
Once prepared, Bang Bang Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s best to give it a quick stir before each use, as some separation can occur over time. Due to its mayonnaise base, freezing is not recommended since it can alter the texture and consistency after thawing. To extend freshness, always use clean utensils when dipping into the sauce and keep it refrigerated when not in use.
User Reviews and Community Favorites
According to user comments on recipe blogs and social media, Bang Bang Sauce is consistently praised for its ease, flavor, and restaurant-quality taste. Many home cooks report using it multiple times a week once they discover how simple it is to make. It’s especially popular with families, as the heat level can be easily adjusted for kids or heat-sensitive eaters. Its wide appeal makes it a staple in both weeknight meals and entertaining menus.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Sauce isn’t just a trend—it’s a must-have condiment that delivers a flavorful punch with minimal effort. Its unique blend of creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy elements makes it an unforgettable addition to countless dishes. Whether you’re using it as a dip, drizzle, or dressing, this sauce will elevate your meals and impress your guests. With its ease of preparation and customizable flavor, it’s no wonder Bang Bang Sauce has earned its place in the modern home cook’s arsenal. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite go-to sauce.