Bang Bang Chicken Sliders have become my absolute go-to for any gathering, and honestly, just for a fun weeknight treat too! I first tried them at a friend’s party, and the explosion of flavor was unbelievable – that creamy, spicy sauce coating the perfectly crispy chicken was pure magic. These aren’t just any sliders; they’re mini flavor bombs that will have everyone asking for the recipe. If you’re looking for something that’s both exciting and surprisingly simple to whip up, these Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are it. Let’s get cooking and make some deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Get ready for a flavor sensation! These sliders are a guaranteed hit for so many reasons:
- Explosion of Flavor: You get that perfect sweet, spicy, and creamy kick in every single bite.
- Incredibly Crispy Chicken: We’re talking perfectly fried, Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders that have an amazing crunch.
- Super Easy to Make: Don’t let the deliciousness fool you; these are truly Easy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders that anyone can master.
- Perfect Party Pleaser: Their mini size makes them ideal for appetizers or a fun, interactive meal for crowds.
- Customizable Heat: You can totally dial the spice up or down to suit your taste buds.
- Quick Preparation: Most of the magic happens while the chicken marinates, leaving you with less hands-on time.
- Versatile Serving: They work brilliantly as a snack, lunch, or even a light dinner.
Bang Bang Chicken Slider Ingredients
Gathering these Bang Bang Chicken Slider Ingredients is the first step to pure deliciousness! For the chicken, you’ll need 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. To marinate, grab 1 cup buttermilk, 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot), 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. The crispy coating comes from 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness!), 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper if you like it hot. For frying, have about 2 inches of vegetable oil ready. The star of the show is the sauce: we’ll need 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons sriracha (or more!), 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey, and another 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Finally, you’ll want 12 slider buns, 1/2 cup coleslaw mix, and 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Let’s get down to business and learn how to make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders! It’s easier than you think to create these flavor-packed bites.
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken. In a large bowl, combine your chicken pieces with 1 cup buttermilk, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Give it a good mix to ensure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Step 2: Prepare the Breading. While the chicken marinates, get your dredging station ready. In another large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cornstarch, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper if you’re feeling brave. Mix it all up so there are no clumps.
- Step 3: Fry the Chicken. Now for the magic! Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks. Fry the chicken in batches for about 5-7 minutes per batch, until it’s a beautiful golden brown and cooked through. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack to drain.
- Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce. This is where the creamy, spicy goodness comes from! In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons sriracha (add more if you love the heat!), 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon honey, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Taste it and adjust the seasonings to your liking – maybe a little more sriracha or a touch more honey?
- Step 5: Assemble the Sliders. This is the final step in our Bang Bang Chicken Slider Preparation. Lightly toast your 12 slider buns if you like them a little crisp. Spread a generous amount of the Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a bit of the 1/2 cup coleslaw mix, then add 2-3 pieces of your perfectly fried chicken. Drizzle a little more of that glorious sauce over the chicken, sprinkle with the sliced 2 green onions and sesame seeds (if using), and crown with the top bun. These Homemade Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are best served immediately!
Pro Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Want to elevate your slider game? Follow these insider tips for truly amazing Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:
- Double Dredge for Extra Crisp: For an unbelievably crunchy coating, dip the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, then back into the buttermilk, and then into the flour mixture again. This creates a thicker, crispier crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer: Frying in batches is key. Overcrowding the pot lowers the oil temperature, leading to greasy, soggy chicken instead of perfectly Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.
- Rest the Chicken: After frying, let the chicken rest on a wire rack for a few minutes before assembling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
What’s the secret to perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
The real magic for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Sliders lies in the sauce and the fry. Ensure your oil is at the correct temperature for a crispy coating, and don’t skimp on the sauce – it’s what gives them that signature sweet and spicy punch! For more on achieving the perfect crisp, check out these testing the elements.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The chicken can be marinated for up to 4 hours ahead of time, but it’s best to fry it just before serving for maximum crispiness.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
Avoid soggy chicken by ensuring your oil is hot enough and not overcrowding the pan. Also, don’t overcook the chicken; thighs cook quickly and can become dry if left in too long. Make sure your sauce ingredients are well-emulsified for the best creamy texture. Learning about the many benefits of onions can also help with flavor balance in many dishes.
Best Ways to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
These delightful sliders are incredibly versatile, perfect for so many occasions! As Bang Bang Chicken Appetizer Sliders, they are a guaranteed hit at parties, offering a flavorful bite that guests will rave about. For a more substantial meal, serve them as Mini Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches alongside some crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh, light coleslaw. I also love pairing them with a simple side salad for a complete lunch. The sweet, spicy, and creamy notes of the chicken really shine when complemented by something a little cooling and crisp. A Caprese salad would be a refreshing accompaniment.
Nutrition Facts for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
When enjoying these delicious sliders, here’s a look at what you can expect per serving (this is for one slider):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (this can vary based on exact sauce and bun used)
- Fat: 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 5-7g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugar: 8-10g
- Sodium: 600-700mg
Remember, these Bang Bang Chicken Slider Calories and other nutritional values are estimates and can fluctuate based on the specific ingredients and brands you use in your recipe. For more information on nutritional content, you can explore resources on barley, though this is not directly related to the sliders themselves.
How to Store and Reheat Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Properly storing and reheating your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders ensures you can enjoy every last bite. Once the sliders have cooled completely, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the fried chicken pieces for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. Assembling the sliders with the sauce and buns is best done right before serving, as the buns can get soggy from the sauce.
When you’re ready to reheat, the best method for the chicken is in the oven or an air fryer to maintain crispiness. Reheat the chicken pieces at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. For the sauce, simply bring it to room temperature or gently warm it on the stovetop. Then, reassemble your sliders with fresh buns and your preferred toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
What are Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
These delightful sliders are essentially mini sandwiches featuring tender, crispy fried chicken coated in a signature creamy, sweet, and spicy “Bang Bang” sauce, all served on soft slider buns. They’re a flavor explosion in a bite, making them incredibly popular for parties and casual meals alike.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders for a crowd?
Absolutely! The beauty of these sliders is how easily they scale up. You can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger group. I often make a big batch for game days, and they disappear so fast! If you’re looking for other crowd-pleasing recipes, consider exploring appetizers.
What are some other Bang Bang Chicken Slider Ideas?
You can get creative! For a different twist, try adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra sriracha for more heat. Some people love to add a thin slice of pineapple for a tropical note, or even a bit of pickled jalapeño for an extra kick. The sauce is so versatile, it pairs well with many flavors! For a similar flavor profile, you might enjoy spaghetti with garlic and oil.
How do I make the Bang Bang sauce less spicy?
If you’re sensitive to heat, you can easily adjust the spice level of the Bang Bang sauce. Reduce the amount of sriracha, or omit it altogether and add a touch more sweet chili sauce or honey for sweetness. You could also try a milder hot sauce. The goal is a balance of sweet, creamy, and a hint of spice that you enjoy.
Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Sliders You Can Try
While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different twists! For those who prefer a lighter option, you can bake or air fry the chicken instead of frying. Baking on a wire rack at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, gives a great result. Air frying at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, also yields wonderfully Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.
If you’re looking for different flavor profiles, consider making these Sweet and Spicy Chicken Sliders by adding a pinch of brown sugar to the sauce or topping with a pineapple salsa. For an extra decadent and Creamy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders experience, try adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce for added richness. You can also swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, just be mindful of cooking times to prevent them from drying out. For another take on sliders, check out these veggie burgers with avocado green harissa.
PrintBang Bang Chicken Sliders: 2 Tasty Twists
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are miniature flavor bombs featuring juicy, crispy chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce, nestled between soft, toasted slider buns. This recipe offers an explosion of taste and texture, perfect for parties or a fun weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (or more, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 12 slider buns
- 1/2 cup coleslaw mix
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine chicken pieces, buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Ensure chicken is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Prepare the Breading: Whisk together flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a separate large bowl. Combine well.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, coating completely and pressing to adhere. Carefully place breaded chicken into hot oil, frying in batches for 5-7 minutes per batch until golden brown and cooked through (165°F/74°C internal temperature). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic powder in a medium bowl. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Assemble the Sliders: Lightly toast slider buns if desired. Spread Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Top with coleslaw mix. Place 2-3 pieces of fried chicken on the coleslaw. Drizzle more Bang Bang sauce over the chicken. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Place the top half of the buns on top. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to your preference.
- Chicken: Chicken breasts can be used, but cut smaller and avoid overcooking.
- Buns: Hawaiian rolls are a popular choice, but any slider bun works.
- Coleslaw: Make your own by shredding cabbage and carrots and mixing with mayonnaise and vinegar if pre-made mix is unavailable.
- Air Fryer Option: Air fry breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make Ahead: Bang Bang sauce can be made up to a week ahead; chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours ahead.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: N/A
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: N/A
- Cholesterol: N/A
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