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If you’re craving a bite-sized explosion of sweet, spicy, and crunchy delight, this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy chicken pieces marinated to perfection, coated in a crispy crust, and smothered in a luscious creamy sauce take center stage in these delightful sliders. Each bite combines layers of flavor and texture—tangy, spicy, crunchy, and fresh—that make these little sandwiches an irresistible party favorite or a fun weeknight treat. Trust me, once you try this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved classic in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference, and these straightforward components each bring something special to this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. From the tender chicken and crunchy panko to the vibrant Bang Bang sauce, every ingredient plays a vital role in combining flavor, texture, and color.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean chicken is the star of the sliders, ensuring juicy bites.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken during marination.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Imparts warm, savory depth both in marinade and sauce.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Brings subtle sweetness and aroma to the chicken marinade.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky undertone and lovely red hue.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild heat and aromatic bite.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base for a crispy, golden crust.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds that crucial extra crunch that makes these sliders unforgettable.
- Vegetable oil for frying: The perfect frying medium to cook chicken evenly until crispy.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy backdrop for the Bang Bang sauce.
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce: Introduces sweetness and mild heat.
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce: Packs a punch of heat to awaken your taste buds.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances spice with gentle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens the sauce with citrusy zing.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for the sauce): Ensures the sauce echoes the savory notes of the chicken marinade.
- 12 mini slider buns: Soft, small buns perfectly sized for handheld sliders.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: Adds freshness and crunch to the finished sliders.
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion: Offers a crisp, slightly sharp contrast.
- ½ cup pickles (optional): Adds acidity and crunch, complementing the creamy sauce.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Brings a fragrant, herbal lift to top it all off.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces that will fit comfortably on a mini slider bun. Next, combine the buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl to create a flavorful marinade. Toss the chicken pieces in this mixture, then cover and refrigerate for at least one hour—overnight if you can wait—to allow the chicken to soak up all those delicious spices and tenderize beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken marinates, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder in a small bowl until silky smooth. This sauce is the heart of the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe—creamy, spicy, and a little sweet, it ties every element together perfectly. Set aside so the flavors can meld as you prepare the chicken.
Step 3: Coat and Fry the Chicken
In a shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Remove chicken pieces from the marinade one at a time, letting excess drip off, then dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour-panko mixture, ensuring an even coating. Fry the chicken pieces in hot oil for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning once, until they’re irresistibly golden brown and crunchy. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels to keep them crisp and light.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Spread a generous layer of the Bang Bang sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each mini bun—don’t be shy here, the sauce is what makes these sliders sing. Place a crispy piece of fried chicken on the bottom bun, then top with shredded lettuce, thin slices of red onion, optional pickles for some zing, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if desired. Close the slider with the top bun and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that’s a perfect counterpoint to the creamy sauce and spicy chicken. Thin slices of red onion introduce a slight sharpness and crunch, while pickles contribute tangy, crisp bursts that cut through the richness. These carefully chosen garnishes elevate each slider to new heights of flavor and freshness.
Side Dishes
Pair these sliders with crispy sweet potato fries, a simple coleslaw, or a vibrant cucumber salad to add contrast in texture and freshness. Light sides help balance the rich and spicy Bang Bang flavors, making your meal both satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, arrange the sliders on a wooden platter lined with parchment paper, garnished with lime wedges and extra cilantro. You can also serve the Bang Bang sauce on the side in small dipping bowls, letting guests customize their spice levels. For a fun twist, try swapping slider buns for lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option that’s just as tasty and refreshing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Bang Bang chicken pieces in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce and buns separate to maintain their textures and freshness when storing. The chicken remains crispy enough to reheat nicely later.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken pieces by arranging them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 1 month. Avoid freezing the buns or sauce for best results.
Reheating
For best texture, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the crust soggy. Warm the buns separately and assemble fresh before serving.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add even more flavor. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and marinate the same way. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on thickness.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe?
Yes, you can swap out the chicken for fried cauliflower florets or crispy tofu cubes. Coat and cook them similarly to the chicken for a delicious vegetarian version that carries the same bang bang sauce magic.
How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
The sauce has a gentle kick thanks to sriracha, but the sweetness from honey and sweet chili sauce balances it beautifully. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha depending on your preference.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Definitely! Baking is a great lighter option. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), arrange coated chicken pieces on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and crispy.
What’s the best way to keep the sliders from getting soggy?
Spread sauce just before serving and keep buns separate until assembly. Use paper towels to drain fried chicken well, and serve immediately for the crispiest experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing these flavorful, crispy, and saucy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe with friends and family. The magic lies in how simple ingredients come together to create an epic taste sensation that’s fun to eat and hard to forget. Whether for a game day snack, backyard party, or a casual dinner, these sliders are certain to bring smiles and seconds at your table. Go ahead, dive in and make this recipe your next favorite indulgence—you won’t regret it!
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Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a perfect party appetizer or casual meal, featuring crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a flavorful buttermilk marinade and topped with a spicy, tangy Bang Bang sauce. Served on mini slider buns with fresh lettuce, red onion, pickles, and cilantro, these sliders deliver a delicious balance of crunch, spice, and zest in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups or as needed)
Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Assembly
- 12 mini slider buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup pickles (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces to this marinade, making sure they are fully submerged, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to develop maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Set aside so flavors can meld.
- Coat the Chicken: In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs. Remove the marinated chicken pieces from the refrigerator and dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour and panko mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres evenly.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Carefully fry the coated chicken pieces in batches, cooking each side for approximately 3-4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Assemble the Sliders: Spread a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each mini slider bun. Place one piece of fried chicken on the bottom bun, then top with shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, pickles if using, and fresh cilantro leaves if desired. Close each slider with the top bun.
- Serve: Arrange the sliders on a serving platter and serve immediately while the chicken is hot and crispy, ensuring the best texture and taste.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add more sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the marinade.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy crust and prevent greasy chicken.
- You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it to let the flavors intensify.
- Pickles and cilantro are optional but add a nice tang and freshness to balance the spicy sauce.
- Leftover sliders can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in an oven for best texture retention.
