Spicy Szechuan Chicken Salad – Bang Bang Chicken

Bang Bang Chicken (Bang Bang Ji) originated in the province of Szechuan: the name comes from the light pounding process used to make the chicken meat more tender. It is also known as “Strange Flavor Chicken,” reflecting the unusual flavor combination that comes from a sesame dressing spiced with hot chili oil. Authentic Bang Bang Chicken is served on green bean sheets (made from mung beans) that have been soaked and cut into strips. Cucumber slices (used in this recipe) are the traditional alternative, but feel free to use lettuce or cabbage instead if desired. A reader gives this recipe 5 out of 5 stars, writing: “I loved it. Have already made it three times!”