Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe: Prepare to ignite your taste buds and impress your guests with a dish that packs an unforgettable flavor punch! I am incredibly excited to share a recipe that transforms a beloved Szechuan classic into a delightful, handheld sensation perfect for any gathering. These sliders are not just food; they are an experience, offering a harmonious blend of textures and an explosion of the iconic “Bang Bang” flavor in every bite.
Discover the Irresistible Charm of Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
The original Bang Bang Chicken, or Bang Bang Ji, hails from Szechuan cuisine, renowned for its intricate “strange flavor” profile – a captivating mix of spicy, sweet, savory, and nutty. Our adaptation takes this legendary flavor and marries it with crispy chicken, nestled in a soft slider bun, and topped with a vibrant, creamy, and spicy sauce that lives up to its name. People absolutely adore this dish for its incredible balance: the crunch of the chicken, the pillowy softness of the bun, and the thrilling complexity of the sauce that coats everything beautifully. It’s the ultimate party food, an easy appetizer, or a fun weeknight meal that promises to become a firm family favorite.
With this detailed Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe, you’ll master the art of creating perfectly seasoned, irresistibly crunchy chicken, and a luscious, spicy sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Get ready to create a memorable culinary moment!
Ingredients:
- For the Crispy Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick cutlets or large nuggets
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar/lemon juice, let sit 5 minutes)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra kick)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons water
- Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying (about 4-6 cups, depending on your pot)
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat is best for creaminess)
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- For Assembling the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (brioche or potato buns work wonderfully)
- Butter, for toasting buns (about 2 tablespoons)
- Shredded iceberg lettuce, about 2 cups
- Thinly sliced pickles or bread and butter pickles, about ½ cup
- Fresh cilantro or chopped chives, for garnish (optional)
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce
Let’s kick things off by whipping up the star of our show, the irresistible Bang Bang Sauce! This creamy, spicy, and sweet concoction is what truly defines our Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. I always like to prepare the sauce first because it allows the flavors to meld and deepen while I prepare the chicken. Plus, having it ready makes the assembly process a breeze.
- Combine the Base Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ½ cup of good quality mayonnaise. I find that full-fat mayonnaise provides the best rich and creamy base for this sauce, which is crucial for balancing the other bold flavors.
- Add Sweetness and Heat: Next, add the ¼ cup of sweet chili sauce. This provides a lovely sweet and tangy foundation. Following that, incorporate 2 tablespoons of Sriracha. Now, this is where you can truly customize the heat level for your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. If you prefer a milder sauce, start with 1 tablespoon and taste before adding more. For those who love a serious kick, feel free to go up to 3 tablespoons.
- Introduce Sweetness and Acidity: Stir in the 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. Either works beautifully; honey adds a slightly floral note, while maple syrup offers a deeper, earthy sweetness. Then, add 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar. The vinegar is key for cutting through the richness of the mayonnaise and providing a bright, tangy finish that prevents the sauce from feeling too heavy.
- Enhance with Aromatics: Finally, add ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. This simple addition really brings out a wonderful depth of flavor without the raw intensity that fresh garlic might contribute, which can sometimes overpower a creamy sauce.
- Whisk Until Smooth: Using a whisk, vigorously mix all the ingredients together until the sauce is completely smooth, lump-free, and uniformly colored. You’ll notice it transform into a beautiful, vibrant orange hue.
- Chill for Flavor Development: Once thoroughly mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the Bang Bang Sauce for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time isn’t just about keeping it cool; it allows all those wonderful flavors to truly get to know each other, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious sauce. You can even make this sauce a day in advance, which is a fantastic time-saver when preparing for your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. Just give it a good stir before serving!
Preparing the Crispy Chicken
Now that our fantastic Bang Bang Sauce is chilling and getting even tastier, it’s time to focus on the crispy, juicy chicken – the heart of our Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. Achieving that perfect crunch and tender interior requires a few key steps, but I promise it’s worth every bit of effort. We’ll be creating a double-dredging system to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Prepare the Chicken Cutlets: Take your 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. I find it best to cut them into 1-inch thick cutlets or large nugget-sized pieces. The key is to have pieces that are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. For sliders, smaller, bite-sized pieces are ideal, as they fit perfectly on the buns and are easier to eat.
- Marinate in Buttermilk: In a medium bowl, combine the cut chicken pieces with 1 cup of buttermilk. If you don’t have buttermilk, don’t worry! You can easily make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes until it slightly curdles. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the buttermilk. Stir everything together, ensuring all the chicken pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2-4 hours. This buttermilk marinade is crucial! It tenderizes the chicken beautifully and helps the breading adhere better, contributing significantly to the succulence of our chicken for the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe.
- Set Up the Breading Station: While the chicken is marinating, set up your dredging station. You’ll need two shallow dishes or plates.
- In the first dish, whisk together the 2 large eggs and 2 tablespoons of water until well combined. This is our wet station.
- In the second, larger dish, combine the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (if using, for that extra kick!). Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly until there are no visible lumps and everything is evenly distributed. The cornstarch and baking powder are our secret weapons here; they help achieve that extra crispy, flaky texture that we’re looking for in a truly exceptional fried chicken for our Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe.
- Dredge the Chicken: Working with one piece of chicken at a time, remove it from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
- First, dredge the chicken piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated. Gently shake off any excess flour.
- Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully immersed and coated. Let any excess egg drip off.
- Finally, return the chicken piece to the seasoned flour mixture for a second dredge. This double dredging is key to a super crispy crust! Press the flour firmly onto the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides. You want a good, thick layer of breading. Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Repeat this process with all the remaining chicken pieces.
- Allow to Rest: Once all the chicken is breaded, let it rest on the wire rack for about 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This resting period helps the breading adhere more firmly to the chicken, reducing the chances of it falling off during frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven, pour enough vegetable or canola oil to come about 2-3 inches up the sides of the pot (typically 4-6 cups, depending on your pot’s size). Place the pot over medium-high heat. Attach a deep-fry thermometer to the side of the pot. You want the oil to reach a steady temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C). Maintaining the correct oil temperature is paramount for crispy chicken that isn’t greasy. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become soggy; if it’s too hot, the exterior will burn before the interior cooks through.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully, and without overcrowding the pot, gently lower a few breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil. Don’t add too many at once, as this will drop the oil temperature significantly. Fry the chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Drain and Season: Once cooked, use tongs or a slotted spoon to carefully remove the chicken from the oil. Place the crispy chicken pieces on a fresh wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Immediately after removing them from the oil, sprinkle a pinch of salt over the hot chicken for an extra burst of flavor. This also helps draw out any remaining oil. Keep the fried chicken warm in a low oven (around 200°F / 95°C) while you fry the remaining batches.
Assembling the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
With our incredible Bang Bang Sauce ready and our chicken perfectly crispy and golden, we’re now on the home stretch to creating the most delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe! This is where all our hard work comes together in a symphony of flavors and textures.
- Prepare the Slider Buns: Slice your 12 slider buns in half horizontally. In a large skillet or on a griddle, melt about 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Place the cut sides of the slider buns down onto the melted butter and toast for 1-2 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and fragrant. Toasting the buns is a small step that makes a huge difference! It adds a lovely texture, prevents them from getting soggy from the sauce and toppings, and provides a rich, buttery flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Layer with Lettuce: Once the buns are toasted, spread a small handful of shredded iceberg lettuce on the bottom half of each bun. The crispness of the lettuce provides a wonderful contrast to the soft bun and the tender chicken, and it also acts as a barrier, protecting the bun from direct contact with the sauce immediately.
- Add the Crispy Chicken: Carefully place one or two pieces of your freshly fried, crispy chicken on top of the shredded lettuce. Arrange them so they fit neatly on the slider bun. Ensure each slider gets a generous portion of that amazing chicken, after all, it’s the star of our Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe.
- Drizzle with Bang Bang Sauce: Now for the moment we’ve all been waiting for! Drizzle a generous amount of that creamy, spicy, and sweet Bang Bang Sauce over the crispy chicken. Don’t be shy here; the sauce is what ties everything together. You can use a spoon or even a squeeze bottle if you have one, for a more even distribution.
- Top with Pickles: On top of the chicken and sauce, place a few thin slices of pickles or bread and butter pickles. The tangy, briny crunch of the pickles provides a fantastic counterpoint to the richness of the chicken and the sweetness of the sauce. This element truly elevates the overall flavor profile of these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.
- Garnish and Serve: Place the top half of each toasted slider bun over the assembled ingredients. If you’re feeling fancy, you can garnish your sliders with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped chives for a fresh, herbaceous note, and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds for an extra pop of texture and nutty flavor.
- Enjoy Immediately: Serve your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe immediately while the chicken is still warm and at its crispiest. These sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have any leftovers, store the chicken and sauce separately in the refrigerator and reassemble just before eating for the best experience. They are perfect for parties, game nights, or just a fun family meal!
Tips for the Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:
- Advance Prep: The Bang Bang Sauce can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight for even more tenderness.
- Frying Alternatives: If you prefer not to deep-fry, you can air fry or bake the chicken. For air frying, preheat to 375°F (190°C), lightly spray the breaded chicken with oil, and air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through. For baking, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked. While deep-frying yields the ultimate crispiness, these methods are excellent healthier alternatives for your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe.
- Spice Level Customization: Remember, the Sriracha in the Bang Bang Sauce is your primary lever for adjusting the heat. Taste as you go and add more or less according to your family’s preference.
- Bun Variety: While brioche and potato buns are fantastic, feel free to experiment with other small rolls like Hawaiian sweet rolls for an interesting twist.
- Extra Crunch: For an additional layer of texture, consider adding a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or even some crushed plain potato chips on top of the chicken before adding the bun.
There you have it! A comprehensive guide to making truly exceptional Bang Bang Chicken Sliders that are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the process of creating this flavorful dish, and more importantly, enjoy devouring them!
Conclusion:
So, there you have it! We’ve journeyed through the creation of what I truly believe will become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s an experience, a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. The perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and sweet, combined with that irresistible crunch of golden-fried chicken, all nestled within a soft, pillowy slider bun, makes for an absolutely unforgettable bite. I poured my heart into perfecting this particular Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe, ensuring every element contributes to a truly spectacular dish that’s both approachable for the home cook and impressive enough for any gathering. It’s incredibly satisfying to bite into one of these sliders, feeling the textures and tasting the layers of flavor – from the tender chicken to the vibrant, luscious Bang Bang sauce that truly defines the dish. It truly stands out as a unique and exciting option, far more dynamic than your average slider. This recipe brings a burst of excitement to the table, transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Imagine the delight on your guests’ faces as they reach for a second, or even a third, of these mini masterpieces. It’s a testament to how bold flavors and thoughtful preparation can elevate a casual meal into a memorable feast. The simplicity of assembly, once your chicken is prepped and sauce is mixed, means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones, or simply savoring a delicious meal yourself, knowing you’ve created something truly special.
Serving Them Up Right: Perfect Pairings and Presentation
Now that you’re ready to dive into making these incredible sliders, let’s talk about how to present them and what to serve alongside. For a truly complete meal, I love pairing these sliders with a crisp, refreshing Asian-inspired cucumber salad – the cool, tangy notes cut through the richness beautifully, offering a wonderful contrast to the creamy sauce. A simple side of seasoned waffle fries or sweet potato fries would also be a fantastic, comforting accompaniment that adults and kids alike will adore. If you’re hosting a party, arranging them artfully on a large platter, perhaps garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, makes for a visually appealing spread that’s sure to be the star of the show. Don’t forget a little extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping, because trust me, everyone will want more of that delectable goodness! They’re absolutely perfect for game days, summer BBQs, casual get-togethers, or even just a fun, relaxed family dinner on a weeknight when you’re craving something a little different and exciting to break the monotony. Their individual portion size makes them incredibly easy to serve and enjoy without any fuss.
Unleash Your Inner Chef: Creative Variations to Explore
One of the things I adore most about cooking is the endless possibility for customization, and this recipe is no exception! Don’t be afraid to make it your own and let your culinary creativity shine. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider serving the Bang Bang chicken in crisp lettuce cups instead of buns – it’s a fantastic low-carb alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor and adds a refreshing crunch. For those who prefer a different protein, pan-fried tofu or even grilled shrimp would work beautifully with the Bang Bang sauce; simply adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure they are cooked through and flavorful. Craving more heat? A few extra dashes of Sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes directly into the sauce will give it that extra kick that spice lovers crave. Conversely, if you prefer it milder, reduce the Sriracha and add a touch more honey or a splash of fresh lime juice to balance the sweetness and creaminess. You could also experiment with different toppings: quick-pickled red onions add a delightful tang and crunch, while a sprinkle of finely chopped roasted peanuts brings a lovely textural contrast and nutty flavor. Fresh cilantro and thinly sliced green onions are always welcome additions for a burst of vibrant freshness that brightens every bite. Experiment with different types of slider buns too – classic Hawaiian rolls offer a lovely sweetness that complements the sauce, while brioche buns provide a rich, buttery texture that feels a bit more indulgent. The beauty here is in the adaptability, allowing you to tailor the experience precisely to your taste preferences, dietary needs, or what you have on hand, making it a truly versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? I genuinely hope you feel inspired to head into your kitchen and give this incredible recipe a try. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to create something truly delicious and share joy with those around you. When you do whip up a batch of these glorious sliders, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Please come back and leave a comment below to tell me how they turned out for you. Did you make any fun variations or add any unique twists? What did your family and friends think of them? Your feedback and experiences mean the world to me, and they help others in our community discover just how wonderful this dish is and inspire new ideas. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations on social media too – tag me so I can see your delicious masterpieces and celebrate your cooking triumphs! I am always so thrilled to see your delicious results and the personal touches you add. This recipe is designed to bring smiles, satisfy cravings, and create memorable dining experiences, and I can’t wait for you to experience that firsthand. Trust me, once you try these, they’re going to be on regular rotation in your home. Happy cooking, my friends!
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
Ignite your taste buds and impress guests with these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders! This recipe transforms a Szechuan classic into a delightful, handheld sensation with crispy chicken, a vibrant creamy-spicy sauce, all nestled in a soft slider bun. Perfect for any gathering, offering an unforgettable flavor punch in every bite.
Ingredients
-
1 1/2 pounds thin sliced chicken breasts
-
Kosher salt, to taste
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Fresh black pepper, to taste
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Garlic powder, to taste
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup cornstarch
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1 cup buttermilk
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1 tablespoon hot sauce
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1 large egg
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2 cups Panko bread crumbs
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Vegetable oil or canola oil, for frying
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12 slices mozzarella cheese
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12 slider rolls
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2 tablespoons butter, for toasting buns
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2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
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1/2 cup thinly sliced pickles
-
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
-
1/2 cup mayonnaise
-
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
-
2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)
-
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
-
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Optional garnishes: Fresh cilantro or chopped chives
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Optional garnishes: Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
-
Step 1
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, and garlic powder. Whisk vigorously until the sauce is completely smooth. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. -
Step 2
Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch thick cutlets or large nugget-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken with buttermilk, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, Kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2-4 hours, to tenderize the chicken. -
Step 3
Prepare your dredging station: In one shallow dish, whisk the 1 large egg. In a second, larger dish, combine the 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cornstarch, and 2 cups Panko bread crumbs, mixing thoroughly. -
Step 4
Working one piece at a time, dredge chicken in the dry flour-cornstarch-Panko mixture, then dip into the egg wash, and finally return to the dry mixture for a second coating, pressing firmly. Place breaded chicken on a wire rack and let rest for 10-15 minutes. Heat vegetable or canola oil in a large pot to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Fry chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels; immediately sprinkle with salt. -
Step 5
Slice the 12 slider rolls horizontally. In a large skillet or on a griddle, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Place the cut sides of the rolls down and toast for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden brown and fragrant. -
Step 6
On the bottom half of each toasted slider roll, place a small handful of shredded iceberg lettuce. Top with one or two pieces of crispy chicken and a slice of mozzarella cheese. Drizzle generously with the prepared Bang Bang Sauce. Add a few thin slices of pickles. -
Step 7
Place the top half of each toasted slider roll over the assembled ingredients. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped chives and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders immediately while the chicken is warm and crispy.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
