Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: Prepare to be amazed by these miniature flavor bombs! Imagine juicy, crispy chicken, coated in a creamy, spicy sauce, nestled between soft, toasted slider buns. These aren’t just any sliders; they’re an explosion of taste and texture that will leave you craving more. I’m so excited to share this recipe with you!

While the exact origins of “Bang Bang” sauce are debated, it’s widely believed to have originated at the Bonefish Grill restaurant, quickly becoming a fan favorite. The name itself suggests the powerful, unforgettable flavor that hits your palate with a delightful “bang!” It’s a testament to how a simple combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy elements can create something truly extraordinary.

People adore Bang Bang Chicken Sliders for so many reasons. The contrast between the crispy chicken and the smooth, tangy sauce is simply irresistible. They’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party. Plus, who can resist the fun, bite-sized format of a slider? Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors in every single bite. I know you’ll love this recipe as much as I do!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 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, for extra heat)
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 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
• For the Sliders:
• 12 slider buns
• 1/2 cup coleslaw mix
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Marinating the Chicken

Okay, let’s get started! First, we need to marinate the chicken. This is a crucial step because it makes the chicken super tender and juicy. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this!

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the chicken is coated evenly.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be. I usually aim for at least an hour if I have the time.

Preparing the Breading

While the chicken is marinating, let’s get the breading ready. This is what gives the chicken that crispy, golden-brown crust we all love.

1. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure everything is well combined. The cornstarch is key for extra crispiness!

Frying the Chicken

Now for the fun part – frying the chicken! This is where the magic happens. Make sure you have everything set up and ready to go before you start.

1. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn on the outside before it’s cooked through. If it’s too cold, the chicken will be greasy.
2. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off.
3. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it’s completely coated. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to help it adhere.
4. Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
5. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
6. Remove the fried chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This will help keep the chicken crispy.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is cooling slightly, let’s whip up the Bang Bang sauce. This sauce is what makes these sliders so incredibly delicious. It’s sweet, spicy, and creamy all at the same time!

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic powder.
2. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you like it spicier, add more sriracha. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more honey.

Assembling the Sliders

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Now it’s time to assemble those delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.

1. Lightly toast the slider buns, if desired. This is optional, but I think it adds a nice touch.
2. Spread a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each slider bun.
3. Top with a small amount of coleslaw mix. Don’t overdo it with the coleslaw, you want the chicken to be the star of the show.
4. Place 2-3 pieces of fried chicken on top of the coleslaw.
5. Drizzle more Bang Bang sauce over the chicken.
6. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
7. Place the top half of the slider buns on top.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy! These are best served warm, so don’t let them sit around for too long.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to your liking. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Chicken: You can also use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs, but be sure to cut them into smaller pieces and don’t overcook them, or they will be dry.
• Buns: Feel free to use your favorite type of slider buns. Hawaiian rolls are a popular choice.
• Coleslaw: If you don’t have coleslaw mix, you can make your own by shredding cabbage and carrots and mixing them with a little mayonnaise and vinegar.
• Air Fryer Option: For a healthier option, you can air fry the chicken instead of deep frying. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the breaded chicken for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
• Make Ahead: You can make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Serving Suggestions:

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are perfect for parties, game day, or a casual weeknight meal. Serve them with your favorite sides, such as:

• French fries
• Sweet potato fries
• Onion rings
• Potato salad
• Macaroni salad

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! Let me know in the comments if you try it out and what you think. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are truly a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss. From the crispy, juicy chicken to the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, every bite is an absolute delight. I know, I know, I might be biased, but trust me on this one – this recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or even just a satisfying lunch.

But why are these sliders a must-try? It’s simple: they’re incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and totally customizable. The recipe uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, and the entire process, from prepping the chicken to assembling the sliders, takes less than 30 minutes. That’s a win in my book! Plus, the combination of textures – the crunch of the chicken, the softness of the buns, and the smoothness of the sauce – is simply irresistible.

Beyond the basic recipe, there are so many ways to make these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders your own. Feeling adventurous? Add a slice of pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist. Want to kick up the heat? Increase the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. For a lighter option, try using lettuce wraps instead of slider buns. You could even swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian version. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions:

* Serve these sliders with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a classic barbecue feel.
* Pair them with sweet potato fries or onion rings for a more indulgent meal.
* Offer a variety of toppings, such as shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles, so everyone can customize their own sliders.
* For a party, arrange the sliders on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing.

Variations to Explore:

* Bang Bang Shrimp Sliders: Substitute the chicken with cooked shrimp for a seafood twist.
* Bang Bang Tofu Sliders: Use crispy fried tofu for a vegetarian option.
* Spicy Bang Bang Sliders: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Bang Bang sauce for extra heat.
* Sweet and Tangy Bang Bang Sliders: Incorporate a slice of grilled pineapple into each slider.

I’m confident that once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your household. The combination of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a winner every time. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! And I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Please, share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me create even better recipes for you in the future. Happy cooking, and enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders! I hope you love them as much as I do!