Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

Craving a delicious, bite-sized meal that’s crispy, spicy, and packed with flavor? These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are exactly what you need. They combine crispy, golden fried chicken with a rich, tangy bang bang sauce, all served on a soft, mini slider bun. Perfect for game day, a casual dinner, or even a party, these sliders will be a hit at any gathering. The combination of crispy chicken, zesty sauce, and fresh toppings will have everyone coming back for seconds.

What makes these sliders so irresistible is the balance of heat and sweetness from the bang bang sauce. With sriracha and sweet chili sauce, it’s spicy but not overwhelming, with honey adding a hint of sweetness. The addition of crunchy shredded lettuce, tangy pickles, and a slight kick from red onions brings freshness and crunch to each bite. Whether you’re serving these sliders as an appetizer or a main course, they’re sure to satisfy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect for Parties

These sliders are the ideal finger food for any occasion. They’re small, easy to eat, and packed with flavor, making them perfect for game nights or casual gatherings.

2. Crispy and Tender

The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside, while the buttermilk soak ensures it remains juicy and tender on the inside.

3. Sweet and Spicy Bang Bang Sauce

The homemade bang bang sauce is the star of this dish, bringing a delicious balance of sweetness and heat that complements the crispy chicken.

4. Customizable Heat Level

You can adjust the sriracha to make the sauce as spicy or mild as you like, making it adaptable to any palate.

5. Easy to Make

Despite being packed with flavor, these sliders are easy to prepare and come together relatively quickly, perfect for busy days or weeknight dinners.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Buttermilk
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• All-purpose flour
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• Mayonnaise
• Sweet chili sauce
• Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• Honey
• Lime juice
• Garlic powder

For the Sliders

• Mini slider buns
• Shredded lettuce
• Red onion (thinly sliced)
• Pickles (optional)
• Fresh cilantro (optional for garnish)

Variations

• Add Cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, top the fried chicken with a slice of cheese before assembling the sliders. Provolone or cheddar works well.
• Make It Spicy: For a spicier version, increase the amount of sriracha or add some diced fresh jalapeños to the bang bang sauce.
• Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, substitute the chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option.
• Baked Version: If you’re looking to cut back on oil, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for a crispy result without frying.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the buttermilk mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate (overnight for best results).

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

In a separate bowl, combine the flour and panko breadcrumbs. Take each chicken breast from the buttermilk mixture and dredge it in the flour-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Press gently to make sure the coating sticks.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts and fry for 5-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is frying, prepare the bang bang sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder in a bowl. Taste and adjust the sriracha for your desired spice level.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Slice the fried chicken breasts into pieces that fit the mini slider buns. Place a piece of chicken on each bun and top with a generous drizzle of bang bang sauce. Add shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onions, and pickles (if using). Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of color and flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders immediately while the chicken is crispy, and enjoy with your favorite side dish or dipping sauce!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Ensure Proper Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken. If the oil is too cool, the breading will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Let the Chicken Rest: Allow the fried chicken to rest for a couple of minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and keeps it moist.

How to Serve

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with sides like crispy fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh coleslaw. You can also serve them alongside a cool dipping sauce, such as ranch or extra bang bang sauce for dipping. For a full meal, consider adding a light salad or roasted vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

While these sliders are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftover chicken and sauce separately in the refrigerator. The fried chicken will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container, while the bang bang sauce will last up to a week in the fridge.

Freezing

You can freeze the fried chicken for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake it in the oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes until crispy and heated through.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until it becomes crispy again. Reheat the sauce separately in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While fresh chicken breasts are recommended, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and frying.

2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

3. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to get a crispy result.

4. What type of buns should I use?

Mini slider buns work best for this recipe. You can also use Hawaiian rolls or other small soft buns for added sweetness.

5. Can I make the sliders spicier?

Absolutely! Adjust the sriracha in the sauce to increase the heat, or add diced jalapeños to the sliders for extra spice.

6. Can I use a different sauce for the sliders?

If you prefer a different sauce, you can substitute the bang bang sauce with buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce.

7. How can I make these sliders healthier?

To make the sliders healthier, consider baking the chicken instead of frying it and using whole wheat slider buns.

8. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and will give the sliders a richer flavor.

9. How do I prevent the chicken from getting soggy?

Ensure the fried chicken rests on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Avoid stacking the sliders until ready to serve.

10. Can I add cheese to these sliders?

Yes, adding a slice of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, just before serving will make these sliders even more indulgent.

Conclusion

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of crispy chicken, sweet and spicy bang bang sauce, and fresh toppings all tucked into a soft slider bun. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any gathering or meal. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer, a crowd-pleasing dish, or a unique take on a classic favorite, these sliders won’t disappoint. Enjoy them with friends and family, and get ready for rave reviews!

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