If you’ve ever craved a dish that’s bursting with spicy, tangy, and crispy goodness all in one bite, then you’re going to love this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. These little sliders pack a punch with their perfectly fried chicken coated in a creamy, zesty bang bang sauce that’s sweet, spicy, and utterly addictive. Perfect for parties, game days, or an indulgent weeknight treat, this recipe takes simple ingredients and transforms them into a crowd-pleasing flavor explosion that’s as fun to eat as it is to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to contribute to the perfect balance of crispy texture, vibrant flavor, and juicy tenderness. From the buttermilk marinade that keeps the chicken wonderfully moist, to the combination of panko and flour that creates an irresistible crunch, every component plays a crucial role.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The superstar of the dish, providing tender, juicy bites perfect for sliders.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the chicken for extra juiciness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory depth into the marinade and the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor with subtle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a mild smoky flavor and vibrant color to the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly throughout the dish.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates a base for a crispy coating that clings to the chicken.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Brings that extra crunch that makes these sliders unforgettable.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving that golden, crispy crust.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the bang bang sauce that balances heat and sweetness.
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce: Adds a delightful sweet and spicy kick to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce: Brings a bold heat that makes the bang bang sauce shine.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens the sauce perfectly to counterbalance the spice.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Adds brightness and a fresh zing to the sauce.
- 12 mini slider buns: The perfect size to hold all the delicious fillings in one bite.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce: Adds a refreshing crunch and color contrast.
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion: Provides sharpness and a bit of bite to the sliders.
- ½ cup pickles (optional): Adds tang and an extra layer of flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): Lifts the whole dish with fresh herbal notes if desired.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly and makes for the perfect slider filling. Then, create a flavorful marinade by mixing together the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken pieces so they soak up all those wonderful flavors. The longer the chicken marinates, the juicier and tastier it will be, so if you can, refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While your chicken is soaking up those flavors, whip up the star sauce. In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth and creamy. This sauce is the perfect balance of spicy and sweet, and it’s what really makes your sliders sing. Set it aside but keep it within easy reach for assembly.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
Mix together the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish to create that ultra-crispy coating. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour and panko mixture. Carefully fry the chicken pieces in hot oil until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once cooked, drain them on paper towels to soak up any extra oil.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
The grand finale! Slice your mini slider buns in half and spread a generous layer of your homemade bang bang sauce on both the top and bottom bun. Layer on a crispy chicken piece, followed by shredded lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, pickles if you like, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for brightness. Cap it off with the top bun, and just like that, your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe is ready to delight!
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh cilantro and pickles really elevates the sliders with an extra pop of flavor and color. These little touches add brightness and a refreshing balance to the richness of the fried chicken and creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders with simple sides like crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh cucumber salad, or even classic coleslaw. These sides complement the bold, spicy flavors of the sliders without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests even more? Arrange the sliders on a long wooden board with mini flags or toothpicks holding them together for a fun party platter. You could also serve them alongside a variety of dipping sauces, letting everyone customize their bang bang experience. Presentation is half the fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Bang Bang Chicken Sliders left, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 2 days, although the chicken might lose some crispiness.
Freezing
You can freeze the fried chicken pieces separately in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. This way, you can enjoy this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe anytime by reheating the chicken and assembling fresh sliders when ready.
Reheating
To bring back the crispy goodness, reheat the fried chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and tend to stay tender even after frying, which some people prefer for this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you’ll still get all the amazing flavors.
How spicy is the bang bang sauce?
The sauce carries a gentle to moderate heat thanks to the sriracha, perfectly balanced with sweetness from honey and tang from lime juice. If you like more heat, feel free to add extra sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
You can! Coat the chicken as instructed, then bake on a greased baking sheet at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. While it won’t be quite as crispy as frying, it’s a great lighter alternative.
What kind of buns work best for these sliders?
Mini brioche buns or soft slider buns work perfectly as they’re sturdy enough to hold all the toppings yet tender and buttery, complementing the bold flavors of the chicken and sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe is a guaranteed hit for anyone who loves bold flavors and crispy textures in a fun, handheld package. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, these sliders will bring joy and spice to your table with every bite. So why wait? Grab your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and dive into the tasty adventure that is bang bang goodness!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders feature crispy, buttermilk-marinated fried chicken pieces coated in a zesty, creamy bang bang sauce, served on mini slider buns with fresh lettuce, red onion, pickles, and cilantro. Perfect for parties or a flavorful appetizer, they combine spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors in a handheld bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 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
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
Slider 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 buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces to this marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth and well combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs, ensuring even distribution for a crispy coating.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet, heating it over medium-high heat until it reaches the proper temperature for frying—hot enough to sizzle when tested with a small breadcrumb.
- Coat and Fry the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken pieces from the refrigerator. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour and panko mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil and fry them until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken onto paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Assemble the Sliders: Slice the mini slider buns horizontally. Spread a generous amount of the prepared bang bang sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each bun. Place a piece of the crispy fried chicken on the bottom half, then layer with shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, pickles if using, and fresh cilantro as desired. Close each slider with the top bun.
- Serve: Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders immediately while the chicken is hot and the buns are fresh to enjoy the full burst of flavors.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight will result in more flavorful and tender meat.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F for best frying results.
- Pickles and cilantro are optional toppings but add great freshness and crunch.
- For a lighter version, bake the chicken strips coated in panko at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
- Make the bang bang sauce ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
