Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

If you love bold flavors and crispy chicken with a kick, then these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are about to become your new favorite dish. Packed with tender, juicy fried chicken bites coated in a spicy, tangy Bang Bang sauce and nestled between mini slider buns, this recipe is perfect for parties, casual gatherings, or even as a fun family meal. The combination of spicy sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and honey in the Bang Bang sauce will have your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are not just your average mini sandwiches. They’re:

• Bursting with flavor: From the crispy chicken to the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, every bite is a flavor explosion.
• Perfect for gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing something to a potluck, these sliders are sure to impress.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the heat by altering the amount of sriracha in the sauce, making it mild or extra spicy to suit everyone’s tastes.
• Easy to make ahead: The chicken can be marinated in advance, and the sauce comes together in minutes.

Ingredients Overview

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main protein for the sliders.
• 1 cup buttermilk – Helps to tenderize the chicken and enhance flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika – Basic seasonings that add flavor to the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Creates a crunchy coating for the chicken.
• Vegetable oil for frying – Ensure the chicken gets perfectly crispy.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the sauce.
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce – The sweet counterpart to balance the spicy flavors.
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste) – Brings the heat to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice – Brightens up the sauce with acidity.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth to the sauce.

For the Sliders:

• 12 mini slider buns – Soft, pillowy buns to hold the chicken and toppings.
• 1 cup shredded lettuce – Adds a fresh crunch.
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion – Sharp flavor and crunch.
• 1/2 cup pickles (optional) – Provides tanginess.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional) – Adds a burst of freshness.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, perfect for fitting onto slider buns. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight if you want even more flavor). This step is essential for tenderizing the chicken and locking in the spices.

2. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning based on your preference—add more sriracha if you want more heat, or a bit more honey for a sweeter touch. Set the sauce aside while you prepare the chicken.

3. Fry the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs. Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge, letting any excess buttermilk drip off. Coat each piece of chicken in the flour and panko mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated.

In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small piece of chicken—it should sizzle immediately. Fry the chicken in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each piece for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

4. Assemble the Sliders

Lightly toast the slider buns on a griddle or in a toaster until they’re golden brown. Spread a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a few pieces of fried chicken, then layer on the shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, and pickles if using. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Place the top half of the bun on the slider to complete the sandwich.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Arrange your sliders on a platter, and serve with extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping. These sliders are best enjoyed hot and fresh, so dig in while the chicken is still crispy and the sauce is bursting with flavor.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl (for marinating the chicken)
• Shallow dish (for coating the chicken)
• Large skillet or deep fryer
• Paper towels (for draining the fried chicken)
• Griddle or toaster (for toasting buns)
• Slotted spoon (for removing chicken from oil)

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

• Oil temperature matters: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F). Too hot, and the chicken will burn on the outside while staying undercooked inside. Too cold, and it’ll turn out greasy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
• Make the sauce ahead of time: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to two days. Just give it a good stir before serving.
• Toast the buns: This adds an extra layer of texture and helps prevent the bread from getting soggy from the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the skillet: This lowers the oil temperature, making the chicken less crispy. Fry in small batches.
• Skipping the marinade time: Marinating the chicken is key for flavor and tenderness. Don’t rush this step.
• Not draining the chicken properly: Always use a paper towel to drain excess oil from the chicken after frying. This keeps it crispy and light.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Grilled chicken sliders: For a lighter version, you can grill the chicken instead of frying. Marinate the chicken as directed, then grill until fully cooked.
• Spice adjustments: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of sriracha or substitute with ketchup for a milder flavor.
• Toppings: Add avocado slices, jalapeños, or even a slice of cheese to make these sliders your own.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the fried chicken separately from the buns and toppings. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to re-crisp the chicken. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.

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Serving Ideas & Pairings

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders pair wonderfully with classic sides like sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or crunchy coleslaw. They also make a great addition to a game-day spread alongside nachos, dips, and chips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to a day in advance. Fry the chicken just before serving for the best results.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until crispy, turning halfway through. It won’t be as crispy as frying, but it’s a healthier option.

How can I make the sliders less spicy?
Simply reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce or leave it out altogether. You can also serve the sliders with extra mayo on the side to cool down the heat.

Conclusion

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the ultimate combination of crispy, spicy, and tangy flavors, perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe for your next gathering or family meal, and watch these sliders disappear in minutes. If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

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