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 juicy, 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, unforgettable flavor that hits your taste buds. It’s a culinary experience that leaves a lasting impression.

What makes these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The crispy chicken provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy, slightly sweet, and spicy sauce adds a delightful kick. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly flavorful, relatively quick to prepare, and perfect for parties, game days, or a fun weeknight meal. Plus, who can resist a slider? They’re the ultimate comfort food in miniature form!

So, are you ready to elevate your slider game? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and create some seriously delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders that will have everyone begging for more!

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
• 1/4 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)

Marinating the Chicken

Okay, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is marinate our chicken. This is super important because it’s what makes the chicken so tender and flavorful. Trust me, don’t skip this step!

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the chicken is submerged in the buttermilk mixture.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor will be! I usually aim for at least 4 hours.

Preparing the Breading

While the chicken is marinating, we can get the breading ready. This is what gives the chicken that crispy, crunchy texture 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.

Frying the Chicken

Now for the fun part – frying the chicken! This is where the magic happens, and we transform those marinated chicken pieces into golden-brown, crispy perfection.

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. This is crucial for even cooking and preventing the chicken from becoming greasy.
2. Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off.
3. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
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 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 and place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This helps keep the chicken crispy.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is cooling slightly, let’s whip up the Bang Bang sauce. This is the star of the show, and it’s what gives these sliders their signature flavor. It’s sweet, spicy, and oh-so-addictive!

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

Assembling the Sliders

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Now it’s time to assemble our Bang Bang Chicken Sliders and get ready to enjoy these delicious little bites.

1. Lightly toast the slider buns, if desired. This adds a nice texture and prevents them from getting soggy.
2. Spread a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each slider bun.
3. Top with a layer of shredded coleslaw mix. This adds a cool, crunchy element that balances the richness of the chicken and sauce.
4. Place 2-3 pieces of fried chicken on top of the coleslaw.
5. Drizzle more Bang Bang sauce over the chicken. Don’t be shy!
6. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
7. Place the top half of the slider buns on top and serve immediately.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t skip the marinating step! It’s crucial for tender and flavorful chicken.
• Maintain the oil temperature. Use a thermometer to ensure it stays at 350°F (175°C).
• Don’t overcrowd the pot when frying. Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
• Use a wire rack to drain the fried chicken. This helps keep it crispy.
• Adjust the Bang Bang sauce to your liking. Add more sriracha for extra heat or more honey for sweetness.
• Serve immediately! These sliders are best enjoyed fresh.

Variations:

• Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: Add more sriracha or cayenne pepper to the Bang Bang sauce and breading for an extra kick.
• Honey Garlic Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: Add a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of minced garlic to the Bang Bang sauce.
• Asian Slaw: Substitute the coleslaw mix with an Asian slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame ginger dressing.
• Pickled Onions: Add pickled red onions for a tangy twist.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the Bang Bang chicken and coleslaw in lettuce wraps instead of slider buns.

Make Ahead Tips:

• Chicken: The chicken can be marinated overnight. You can also fry the chicken ahead of time and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Bang Bang Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Coleslaw: The coleslaw can be prepared a few hours in advance, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders as an appetizer, snack, or light meal.
• Pair them with your favorite sides, such as french fries, sweet potato fries, onion rings, or a side salad.
• They’re also great for parties, game days, and potlucks.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. From the crispy, juicy chicken to the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, every bite is an explosion of flavor that will leave you wanting more. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen. Forget takeout – these sliders are about to become your new go-to comfort food.

But what makes these sliders truly special is their versatility. While they’re fantastic as is, there are so many ways to customize them to your liking. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a slice of grilled pineapple for a sweet and savory twist. Want to kick up the heat even further? A dash of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the bang bang sauce will do the trick. For a lighter option, you can swap out the slider buns for lettuce wraps or serve the chicken and sauce over a bed of rice or quinoa.

Serving Suggestions: These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a fun weekend gathering, or even a game-day snack. Serve them with a side of crispy sweet potato fries, a refreshing coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. They also make fantastic appetizers – just cut them into smaller portions and serve them on a platter for easy sharing. And don’t forget the drinks! A cold beer, a sparkling lemonade, or even a fruity cocktail would pair perfectly with the spicy and savory flavors of these sliders.

Variations to Explore: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique version of these sliders. Try using different types of buns, such as brioche or pretzel rolls. Add some crunchy toppings, like toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts. Or, for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with crispy tofu or breaded cauliflower florets. The possibilities are endless!

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. The key to truly nailing these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders is to not be afraid of the sauce! It’s what makes them so addictive. Don’t skimp on the ingredients, and be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to create some culinary magic. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, have fun! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so relax, put on some music, and let your creativity flow.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness of these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders for yourself. Once you’ve made them, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories with me in the comments below or tag me on social media. I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking!