Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

If you have a craving for something crispy, flavorful, and a little bit spicy with a creamy kick, then this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Picture tender chicken bites marinated in buttermilk and spices, fried to golden perfection, then generously coated with a zesty and slightly sweet Bang Bang sauce, all nestled inside soft, toasted mini buns. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite, ideal for impressing friends at your next get-together or satisfying that comfort food craving with a fun, handheld twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role, from the tenderizing buttermilk to the crunchy panko coating and the vibrant sauce that ties everything together.

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, perfect for bite-sized pieces that fry up crispy.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderizes the chicken for juicy, flavorful bites.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a savory depth in both the marinade and sauce.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall savory profile without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings mild warmth and a subtle smoky undertone.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the spices.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the first layer of crispy coating on the chicken.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: For that irresistible crunch every slider deserves.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Use enough to achieve even frying and golden crispiness.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the Bang Bang sauce.
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a subtle Thai-inspired flavor.
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce: Cranks up the heat, adjustable to your spice tolerance.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the heat with luscious sweetness in the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens the sauce with zesty acidity.
• 12 mini slider buns: The perfect, soft vehicle for all your chicken and sauce goodness.
• 1 cup shredded lettuce: Adds fresh crunch and a pop of color.
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion: Offers a sharp bite that contrasts well with creamy sauce.
• 1/2 cup pickles (optional): Injects tang and additional texture if you like an extra punch.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Brings a fresh, herbaceous note to finish.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces perfect for slider bites. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to form a flavorful marinade. Submerge the chicken pieces in this mixture, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with spices that will shine through after frying.

Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

While your chicken marinates, it’s time to whip up that iconic sauce. Combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth and taste to adjust for the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Set this vibrant sauce aside; you’re going to want it ready when your chicken is piping hot and crispy.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Mix the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish to prepare your crunchy coating. Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the flour and panko mix, coating every inch. Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until they achieve a golden brown exterior and are cooked through. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Lightly toast each slider bun until they’re golden and slightly crisp, making sure they hold up to juicy fillings. Spread a generous spoonful of Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each bun, then pile on several crispy chicken bites. Top with shredded lettuce, thin slices of red onion, and pickles if you’re using them. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal finish. Crown each slider with its bun top and get ready to dive in.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange your sliders on a platter, accompanied by extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping. These sliders are best enjoyed hot, showcasing the perfect blend of crunchy, creamy, spicy, and fresh flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh cilantro or even thin slices of jalapeño peppers can elevate these sliders to the next level. The cilantro brings a bright, herby contrast, while jalapeños add heat for spice lovers. Feel free to sprinkle sesame seeds on the buns for texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe with crisp, refreshing sides like coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or even a tangy cucumber salad. These lighter accompaniments balance the richness of the fried chicken and complement the spicy-sweet sauce perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the traditional platter: serve your sliders on wooden boards lined with parchment paper for a casual feel or in mini baskets for a fun party presentation. For an extra wow factor, offer a slider bar with additional toppings like avocado slices, shredded carrots, or various hot sauces so guests can customize their bites exactly how they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers from your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe, store the chicken bites and buns separately in airtight containers to preserve their textures. Keep the Bang Bang sauce refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to a week.

Freezing

Freeze the cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This keeps them from sticking together. The chicken will keep for up to 2 months frozen, though buns and fresh veggies are best used fresh.

Reheating

For rediscovering that crispy texture, reheat chicken bites in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which softens the crunch. Toast the buns lightly before assembling again with the sauce and toppings just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to stay a bit juicier and more flavorful. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same marinade and frying instructions for delicious results.

How spicy is this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe?

The spice level mainly comes from the sriracha in the sauce. You can easily adjust it by adding more for a bolder kick or less for a milder bite. The honey helps balance and mellow the heat nicely.

Is there a healthier way to make these sliders?

If you want to lighten the dish, you can bake the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This reduces oil usage while keeping some crispiness.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours to let the flavors meld. Just keep it refrigerated in a covered container and stir before using.

What’s a good alternative to buttermilk for marinating?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, let it sit for 5-10 minutes, and use it as a substitute. It tricks the chicken into becoming just as tender and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

There is something so incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. The harmony of juicy chicken, crunchy coating, and that creamy, zesty sauce is pure magic every time. Whether it’s for a party centerpiece or a fun family meal, I can’t recommend this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe enough. Trust me—you’ll want to make this again and again.

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