Name: Irresistibly Crunchy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders You'll Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds thin sliced chicken breasts (provides the tender and juicy base for your sliders); kosher salt (to season generously); fresh black pepper (adds subtle kick); garlic powder (complements the chicken's flavor); 0.5 cup all-purpose flour (essential for crispy coating); 0.25 cup cornstarch (helps achieve extra crunchiness); 1 cup buttermilk (tenderizes the chicken); 1 tablespoon hot sauce (lends zesty kick); 1 large egg (binds everything together); 2 cups panko bread crumbs (yields irresistible crunchy texture); vegetable or canola oil (needed for shallow pan-frying); 12 slices mozzarella cheese (melts beautifully on chicken); 12 soft slider rolls (perfect vessel for sliders)

As I flipped through my recipe collection, a flash of inspiration struck me—Bang Bang Chicken Sliders! Who knew that combining crispy fried chicken with a zesty sauce could create such a delightful crowd-pleaser? This recipe not only offers a quick prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it also provides a fun twist on traditional sliders that everyone will rave about. Picture this: juicy, breaded chicken cutlets nestled in soft slider rolls, topped with creamy mozzarella and a drizzle of spicy bang bang sauce. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Ready to dive into a homemade adventure that’s destined to become a family favorite? Let’s get cooking!

Why Are Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Irresistible?

Crispy, Crunchy Texture: Each slider features perfectly fried chicken cutlets coated in panko, delivering a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft roll.

Flavor-Packed Sauce: The dynamic bang bang sauce blends creamy, spicy, and sweet notes, elevating your sliders to an unforgettable experience.

Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip these up for a busy weeknight dinner or spontaneous gatherings.

Versatile Delight: Serve them as appetizers, game-day snacks, or a fun family meal—everyone will love the flavor!

Crowd-Pleaser: These sliders are sure to attract compliments, making them the star of any dinner table!

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Ingredients

For the Chicken

Thin sliced chicken breasts – 1 ½ pounds provide the tender and juicy base for your sliders.
Kosher salt – Use to season the chicken generously for enhanced flavor.
Fresh black pepper – This adds a subtle kick to balance the dish's richness.
Garlic powder – A dash goes a long way in complementing the chicken's flavor.

For the Breading

All-purpose flour – ½ cup is essential for creating a crispy coating.
Cornstarch – Just ¼ cup helps achieve extra crunchiness in the final fry.
Buttermilk – 1 cup not only tenderizes the chicken but also helps the breading stick.
Hot sauce – 1 tablespoon lends a zesty kick to the buttermilk mixture.
Large egg – One egg binds everything together, creating a delicious layer of flavor.
Panko bread crumbs – 2 cups or more yield that irresistible crunchy texture we love!

For Frying

Vegetable or canola oil – Needed for shallow pan-frying, ensuring a crispy finish.

For Assembly

Mozzarella cheese – 12 slices melt beautifully on the hot chicken for a creamy addition.
Slider rolls – 12 soft rolls are the perfect vessel to hold all the deliciousness together.

These ingredients come together to craft decadent Bang Bang Chicken Sliders that are sure to tantalize your taste buds and make meal times memorable.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Season the Chicken
Generously season 1 ½ pounds of thin sliced chicken breasts with kosher salt, fresh black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated to enhance flavor, making it ready for a delicious transformation into Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. Let the seasoned chicken rest while preparing the breading station.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Establish a breading station by combining ½ cup all-purpose flour and ¼ cup cornstarch in one bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup buttermilk, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, and 1 large egg until smooth. Finally, place 2 cups or more of panko bread crumbs in a third bowl for a crunchy finish. This setup will streamline the breading process, ensuring a delightful crunch for each slider.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat a thin layer of vegetable or canola oil over medium heat. Aim for a temperature where a small piece of breading sizzles upon contact with the oil, indicating it’s ready. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect golden-brown crust on your Bang Bang Chicken. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking to prevent burning.

Step 4: Dredge the Chicken
Take each seasoned chicken cutlet and dredge it in the flour and cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess. This light coating helps create a crispy texture during frying. Move each cutlet to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This step is vital for helping the panko adhere while contributing to the flavor.

Step 5: Coat with Panko
After dipping in the buttermilk mixture, press each cutlet firmly into the panko bread crumbs, making sure it is completely covered. This panko layer is what gives your Bang Bang Chicken an irresistible crunch. Transfer the breaded cutlets onto a plate, ready for frying, while ensuring they’re well coated for the best texture.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken
Carefully lower the breaded cutlets into the hot oil, frying for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked. Once done, transfer the fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil, keeping them crispy and delicious.

Step 7: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is frying, prepare the bang bang sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and honey in a small bowl. Adjust the spice level to your liking and set aside. This flavorful sauce will add the perfect kick to your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, elevating them from ordinary to extraordinary.

Step 8: Assemble the Sliders
Once the chicken has cooled slightly, cut the fried cutlets into slider-sized pieces. Place the pieces on the bottom halves of 12 soft slider rolls. Top each piece of chicken with a slice of mozzarella cheese while still warm, allowing the cheese to melt slightly. Drizzle your homemade bang bang sauce over the cheese for that perfect blend of flavors.

Step 9: Complete the Sliders
Finally, add the top halves of the slider rolls to complete your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. Serve them immediately while the chicken is warm and crispy. This delightful assembly, complete with melted cheese and zesty sauce, ensures a delicious serving that’s perfect for any meal or gathering. Enjoy your creation!

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Fridge: Wrap assembled Bang Bang Chicken Sliders tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, seal cooked chicken cutlets in freezer bags, separated from the buns, for up to 1 month. This prevents sogginess and preserves the crispy texture.

Reheating: Reheat the chicken cutlets in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Toast the slider buns in the oven or toaster before assembling for best results.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain quality and flavor in your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Prep Ahead: Prepare the chicken cutlets and breading station in advance to make the cooking process smooth and fast.

Panko Perfection: Use fresh panko bread crumbs for maximum crunch. If they’re stale, the texture may suffer, leading to soggy sliders.

Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F—too hot, and the breading burns; too cold, and it absorbs excess oil.

Sauce Customization: Adjust the bang bang sauce by adding more sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness to tailor the flavor to your preference.

Batch Cooking: If making sliders for a crowd, fry the chicken in batches to ensure everything is crispy and fresh when served.

Storage Awareness: Wrap assembled Bang Bang Chicken Sliders tightly to prevent them from getting soggy when stored in the fridge or freezer.

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can season the chicken and create the breading station up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate the chicken and breading components separately to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the chicken up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, just reheat the chicken in a skillet and toast the slider rolls before assembling with mozzarella and bang bang sauce for that crisp and creamy finish. Enjoy a quick, delicious meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

To create a complete and satisfying meal, consider vibrant sides that enhance the excitement of your sliders.

Crispy Fries: The golden crunch of fries adds a satisfying contrast to the sliders, making every bite a texture fiesta.
Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw provides a refreshing, crunchy element that complements the rich flavors of the chicken and sauce beautifully.
Fresh Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, this salad balances the sliders' richness with its coolness and bright flavors. Toss it with a bit of vinegar for extra zing.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli offers a healthy touch to your meal, bringing vibrant color and nutrients that perfectly offset the sliders.
Pickles: Tangy pickles cut through the richness of the sliders, offering a pop of acidity that brightens each mouthful and adds a delightful crunch.
Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges bring a hint of sweetness and a soft texture that pairs wonderfully with your spicy bang bang chicken.
Sparkling Lemonade: For a refreshing drink, sparkling lemonade’s zesty flavor complements the richness of the sliders while quenching your thirst.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies for a delightful dessert that will make your meal memorable.

These pairing suggestions bring out the best in your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, creating a meal that delights every sense. Enjoy!

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delectable twists!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly option.
Spicy Kick: Add extra sriracha or a pinch of cayenne to the bang bang sauce for those who crave a fiery flavor. Spice lovers will fall head over heels for these sliders!
Cheese Alternatives: Use pepper jack or cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile that adds a delicious twist.
Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter version, serve the chicken cutlets wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves instead of slider rolls. This way, you can savor the crunch and keep it refreshingly healthy.
Baked Version: Bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes for a healthier twist without compromising on taste or texture. Your sliders will stay crispy, making this a guilt-free delight!
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with crispy tofu or tempeh for a meatless version that’s just as satisfying, ensuring everyone can join in the fun!
Tropical Twist: Top the sliders with grilled pineapple slices for a sweet and savory combination that will transport you to a tropical paradise. The burst of sweetness adds a delightful contrast to spice!
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the flour mixture for an irresistible smoky depth in flavor that adds a unique twist to these classic sliders.

Let your taste buds lead the way as you explore these variations! Enjoy the journey of flavors and make each slider a reflection of your culinary creativity!

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken breasts for my sliders?
Absolutely! Look for thin sliced chicken breasts that are pink in color with no dark spots or strange odor, as this indicates freshness. The best-quality chicken breasts should feel firm to the touch. If you're in a hurry, pre-sliced options can often be found at the grocery store for convenience.

How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
Wrap your assembled sliders tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container, and they will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps to maintain their freshness and flavor. If you want to keep them longer, consider storing the cooked chicken separately from the buns to prevent sogginess.

Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
Very! To freeze, first let the cooked chicken cutlets cool completely. Place them in freezer bags, removing as much air as possible, and store them separated from the slider buns. They will last up to 1 month in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge, then reheat it in a skillet while toasting the buns fresh for that perfect crunch.

What should I do if my chicken breading is not crisping up?
A common culprit for soggy breading is oil that’s not hot enough. Make sure you're frying around 350°F; too cool will cause the chicken to absorb oil and become greasy instead of crispy. Always ensure your cutlets are well-coated in panko and avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lower the oil temperature.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for pets or allergies?
It's essential to keep these sliders away from pets, particularly the ingredients like garlic and onion powder, which can be harmful to dogs. For allergies, be cautious with the mayonnaise and sriracha in the bang bang sauce; consider using dairy-free substitutes if lactose intolerance is a concern. Always check labels if you’re cooking for someone with food allergies, ensuring ingredients are safe for them.

Can I make the banging sauce healthier?
Absolutely! For a lighter version, you can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative. This will reduce calories while still providing that creamy texture. You can also adjust the level of sriracha or sweet chili sauce to suit your taste by adding more natural sweeteners if desired!