Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

If you're searching for a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that's sure to impress, look no further than Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. These sliders are packed with flavor, combining crispy fried chicken, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a spicy, creamy Bang Bang sauce. Whether you're hosting a party, planning a family dinner, or just in the mood for something delicious, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. So, read on to learn how to make these irresistible sliders from scratch, and be prepared to add this recipe to your regular rotation!

What Are Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a mouthwatering combination of tender, crispy chicken, fresh rolls, and a tangy, spicy Bang Bang sauce that ties everything together. These sliders take inspiration from the famous Bang Bang Chicken, a popular Asian-inspired dish known for its crispy texture and bold flavors. By turning this classic into sliders, you get a fun, bite-sized version that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures in these sliders is simply unbeatable, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients List for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

To make these delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds thinly sliced chicken breasts: Thin chicken breasts cook quickly and evenly, making them perfect for sliders.
• Kosher salt, fresh black pepper, and garlic powder: These spices are used to season the chicken breasts before breading them, adding a layer of flavor.
• ½ cup flour: The flour helps create a light, crispy coating on the chicken.
• ¼ cup cornstarch: Cornstarch adds extra crispiness to the chicken's coating.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and gives the breading a nice tangy flavor.
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce: The hot sauce adds a bit of heat to the chicken, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 large egg: The egg helps the breading stick to the chicken.
• 2 cups Panko bread crumbs (or more as needed): Panko breadcrumbs provide a crispy, airy texture to the fried chicken.
• Vegetable or canola oil for frying: These oils are ideal for frying because they have a high smoke point, ensuring the chicken fries to a perfect golden brown.

For the Sliders:

• 12 slices mozzarella cheese: The cheese adds a gooey, melty layer to the sliders, balancing the spicy flavors.
• 12 slider rolls: Soft, fluffy slider rolls are the perfect vessel for holding the crispy chicken and Bang Bang sauce.
• Bang Bang sauce (see below): The sauce is what gives these sliders their signature flavor, combining mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and other ingredients.

Bang Bang Sauce Recipe

The Bang Bang sauce is the star of this dish, providing the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Here's what you'll need to make it:

• ½ cup mayonnaise: The base of the sauce, adding creaminess and richness.
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a mild chili flavor to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha: Provides a kick of heat, making the sauce bold and flavorful.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Balances out the spiciness with a touch of sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a tangy acidity to the sauce.
• Pinch of garlic powder: Enhances the flavor with a subtle garlic note.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer a juicier, more flavorful cut, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Just make sure they're boneless and skinless.
• Spicy Variation: For a spicier version, increase the amount of hot sauce in the chicken marinade or add extra sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make these sliders gluten-free, use gluten-free flour, cornstarch, and breadcrumbs.
• Grilled Chicken: If you want a lighter version, you can grill the chicken instead of frying it. The sliders will still be delicious with a slightly smoky flavor.
• Different Cheeses: While mozzarella is a great choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken in lettuce wraps instead of slider rolls.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Bang Bang Chicken Sliders is straightforward, but the key to success is following each step carefully to ensure the chicken is perfectly crispy and the flavors are well-balanced.

How to Cook Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
   • Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour and cornstarch mixed together, another with buttermilk, hot sauce, and egg whisked together, and the third with Panko breadcrumbs.
2. Bread the Chicken:
   • Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip the chicken into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
   • Finally, press the chicken into the Panko breadcrumbs, making sure it's evenly coated on all sides. Repeat this process for all the chicken breasts.
3. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat vegetable or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be about ½ inch deep.
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts to the skillet, frying them in batches if necessary. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each fried chicken breast.
   • Slice the slider rolls in half and place the bottom halves on a baking sheet. Place the chicken breasts with cheese on top of each roll.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are lightly toasted.
5. Add the Bang Bang Sauce:
   • While the sliders are baking, prepare the Bang Bang sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
   • Once the sliders are out of the oven, generously drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over each chicken breast.
6. Finish and Serve:
   • Place the top halves of the slider rolls on each chicken breast to complete the sliders.
   • Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and crispy, and the cheese is melty.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many chicken breasts at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy, greasy chicken. Fry in batches if necessary to maintain the oil temperature.
• Skipping the Buttermilk: The buttermilk marinade is crucial for tenderizing the chicken and helping the breading stick. Don't skip this step!
• Not Draining the Chicken: After frying, make sure to drain the chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil, keeping the chicken crispy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving and presenting your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders in an appealing way can make the dining experience even more enjoyable.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

• With a Side of Fries: Classic French fries or sweet potato fries are a great accompaniment to these sliders. Their crispiness pairs perfectly with the juicy, flavorful chicken.
• On a Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter with a side of extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping. This is perfect for parties or gatherings.
• With a Salad: A light, refreshing salad can balance the richness of the sliders. Consider a cucumber salad or a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

Presentation Ideas for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

• Skewered Sliders: Insert a small skewer or toothpick into each slider to keep them together and make them easier to eat, especially if serving at a party.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprig of fresh cilantro or parsley on top of each slider adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Mini Slider Station: Set up a DIY slider station with different toppings and sauces so guests can customize their sliders to their liking.

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken breasts and Bang Bang sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the sliders just before serving.
• Keep Warm: If you're making a large batch, keep the cooked chicken breasts warm in a low oven (about 200°F) until you're ready to assemble the sliders.
• Extra Sauce: Make extra Bang Bang sauce and store it in the fridge. It's great on other dishes like salads, sandwiches, or even as a dipping sauce for fries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the breaded chicken on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While mozzarella is delicious, feel free to use other types of cheese like cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for a different flavor.

Q: How can I make these sliders spicier?
A: To increase the heat, add more sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce or more hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture used for breading the chicken.

Q: Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bread and fry the chicken ahead of time, then reheat it in the oven before assembling the sliders. However, they are best when freshly made.

Q: What other sauces go well with these sliders?
A: Aside from Bang Bang sauce, you could try serving these sliders with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a garlic aioli for a different twist.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of crispy, tender chicken, creamy mozzarella cheese, and a spicy, tangy Bang Bang sauce, all nestled in a soft slider roll. Whether you're making them for a party, a family dinner, or just a tasty treat, these sliders are sure to be a hit. With a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Don't forget to experiment with the variations and tips provided to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of these delicious sliders!

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