Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: Prepare to be amazed! These aren’t your average mini-burgers; they’re a flavor explosion in every bite. Imagine succulent, crispy chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce, nestled between soft, toasted slider buns. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!

While the exact origins of “Bang Bang” sauce are debated, it’s widely believed to have originated in Asia, with variations popping up across different cuisines. The name itself suggests the powerful, explosive flavor that characterizes this addictive sauce. It’s a testament to the beauty of blending sweet, spicy, and savory elements into perfect harmony.

What makes these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The crispy chicken provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy sauce adds a luscious richness and a delightful kick. The sweetness balances the spice, creating a flavor profile that’s both exciting and comforting. Plus, the slider format makes them incredibly convenient for parties, game days, or even a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. They are easy to eat and even easier to love! So, let’s get cooking and bring some “bang” to your next gathering!

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
• 4 cups shredded coleslaw mix
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful the chicken will be! I usually aim for at least an hour.
2. Prepare the Dredge: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the dredge. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined for even coating and flavor distribution.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. One at a time, dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, pressing firmly to ensure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden-brown crust we all love. Place the dredged chicken on a wire rack while you prepare the oil.

Frying the Chicken:

1. Heat the Oil: Pour enough vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to reach a depth of about 2-3 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for consistent results. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of the dredged chicken into the oil. If it sizzles and turns golden brown in about 2-3 minutes, the oil is ready.
2. Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the dredged chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken. Fry for about 5-7 minutes per batch, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Turn the chicken pieces occasionally to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Drain the Chicken: Remove the fried chicken pieces from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps maintain the crispiness of the chicken.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce:

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the amount of sriracha to your desired level of spiciness. I like mine with a good kick!
2. Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a teaspoon or two of water to thin it out. The consistency should be easily pourable but not too runny.

Assembling the Sliders:

1. Prepare the Sliders: Lightly toast the slider buns, if desired. This adds a nice texture and prevents the buns from getting soggy.
2. Sauce the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the fried chicken pieces with the Bang Bang sauce until they are evenly coated. Make sure every piece of chicken is generously covered in that delicious sauce!
3. Assemble the Sliders: Spread a generous amount of coleslaw mix on the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with the Bang Bang chicken.
4. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using) over the chicken. Place the top half of the slider buns on top. Serve immediately and enjoy! These are best served warm.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to control the spice level. For a milder sauce, use less sriracha or omit it altogether. For a spicier sauce, add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Chicken Options: While chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor, you can also use chicken breasts. If using chicken breasts, be sure to cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook through evenly.
• Coleslaw Variations: You can use store-bought coleslaw or make your own. For a homemade coleslaw, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and mayonnaise-based dressing. You can also add other ingredients like apple cider vinegar, sugar, and celery seed to customize the flavor. A vinegar-based coleslaw also works well to cut through the richness of the sauce.
• Bun Options: You can use any type of slider buns you prefer. Hawaiian rolls are a popular choice for their sweetness and soft texture. Potato rolls are another great option for their slightly sweet and buttery flavor.
• Air Fryer Option: For a healthier alternative, you can air fry the chicken instead of deep-frying it. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the dredged chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce and coleslaw ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use. The fried chicken is best served immediately, but you can keep it warm in a low oven (200°F or 95°C) until ready to assemble the sliders.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders with your favorite sides, such as french fries, sweet potato fries, onion rings, or a side salad. They are also great for parties, game days, or any casual gathering.
• Adding Cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a slice of provolone, pepper jack, or cheddar cheese to each slider before serving. The melted cheese adds a creamy and savory element that complements the Bang Bang sauce and chicken.
• Pickled Onions: Adding pickled red onions can provide a tangy and crunchy contrast to the richness of the chicken and sauce. Simply thinly slice red onions and soak them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt for at least 30 minutes before using.
• Avocado: Sliced avocado can add a creamy and healthy element to the sliders. The smooth texture and mild flavor of avocado pair well with the spicy and savory flavors of the Bang Bang chicken.

Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are truly a flavor explosion you won’t soon forget. From the crispy, juicy chicken to the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, every bite is an absolute delight. But why is this recipe a must-try? It’s simple: it’s incredibly delicious, surprisingly easy to make, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Forget boring weeknight dinners or predictable party appetizers; these sliders are here to shake things up and add a serious dose of flavor to your life.

I know, I know, you’re probably thinking, “Another chicken slider recipe?” But trust me, this one is different. The secret lies in the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy chicken provides a satisfying crunch, while the Bang Bang sauce delivers a sweet, spicy, and creamy kick that will leave you wanting more. And the soft, toasted slider buns? They’re the perfect vessel for all that deliciousness.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up! If you’re a fan of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the Bang Bang sauce.
* Cool it down! For a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce or add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt.
* Add some veggies! Top the sliders with shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, or pickled onions for a fresh and crunchy element.
* Make it a meal! Serve the sliders with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
* Bang Bang Shrimp Sliders! Substitute the chicken for shrimp. Follow the same breading and cooking instructions, adjusting cooking time as needed.
* Bang Bang Tofu Sliders! For a vegetarian option, use firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed to remove excess water. Cut into slider-sized pieces, bread, and cook as you would the chicken.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect combination of flavors.

I truly believe that these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders will become a new favorite in your household. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, game day parties, or any occasion that calls for delicious and easy-to-eat food.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the magic of these amazing sliders. I’m confident that you’ll love them as much as I do.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any modifications? What did you think? Share your photos, comments, and feedback in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking!

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