Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a delightful mix of crispy chicken and a spicy-sweet sauce, making them an irresistible choice for any occasion. Perfect for game day, parties, or casual family dinners, these sliders stand out with their unique blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy the crunch of fried chicken paired with fresh toppings, all nestled in soft slider buns.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 35 minutes, these sliders are a breeze to prepare.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy bang bang sauce and crispy chicken offers a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great as appetizers or main dishes, they fit seamlessly into any meal plan.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings; everyone will love digging into these delicious sliders.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust on the chicken.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for easy preparation and mixing of ingredients without confusion.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurement is key to achieving the right balance of flavors in your bang bang sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into slider-size pieces
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Oil, for frying

For the Bang Bang Sauce:
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon honey*

For Assembly:
* 12 slider buns
* 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
* 1/2 cup sliced pickles (optional)
* Chopped green onions, for garnish

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in buttermilk. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures tenderness and flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Garlic powder
4. Paprika
5. Salt
6. Black pepper

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the flour mixture.
3. Fry until golden brown and fully cooked, about 3–4 minutes per side.
4. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Mayonnaise
2. Sweet chili sauce
3. Sriracha
4. Honey

Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sliders

1. Lightly toast the slider buns.
2. Spread some bang bang sauce on the bottom bun.
3. Add a piece of crispy chicken on top.
4. Top with shredded lettuce or cabbage, pickles (if using), and drizzle more sauce over it.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions, place the top bun on, and serve immediately.

Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or having a cozy family dinner, serving these sliders with the right accompaniments can enhance the experience.

Classic Style

• Serve with crispy fries for a classic combo that everyone loves.
• Pair with coleslaw for a crunchy and refreshing contrast.

Party Platter

• Arrange on a large platter with toothpicks for easy serving during gatherings.
• Add an array of dipping sauces like ranch or extra bang bang sauce for variety.

Mini Slider Bar

• Set up a slider bar where guests can customize their toppings, like avocado or jalapeños.
• Include different sauces to cater to varying spice levels.

Healthy Twist

• Serve on lettuce wraps instead of buns for a lighter option.
• Accompany with fresh fruit salad for a sweet and healthy side.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders turn out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips.

• Choose the right chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tender sliders.
• Marinate adequately: Letting the chicken soak in buttermilk enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Heat oil properly: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve crispy golden chicken.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry in batches to maintain consistent cooking temperature and crispiness.
• Customize the sauce: Adjust sriracha levels based on your preferred spice level for a personalized flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Adding complementary side dishes can elevate your meal and provide variety. Here are some great options to serve alongside your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:

1. Crispy French Fries: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with sliders; consider seasoning them with garlic powder for extra flavor.
2. Sweet Potato Wedges: Enjoy these baked or fried; they’re naturally sweet and add color to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: This crunchy salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the sliders; opt for a vinegar-based dressing for a tangy kick.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser; make it ahead of time to save effort on serving day.
5. Veggie Platter: Include fresh carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers served with hummus for a healthy crunch.
6. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option that adds sweetness; mix seasonal fruits for best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders turn out delicious every time. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken in buttermilk leads to less tender and flavorful meat. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste and texture.
• Not Using Enough Oil: Insufficient oil during frying can lead to unevenly cooked chicken that isn’t crispy. Ensure your skillet has enough oil to fry the chicken evenly on both sides.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many pieces of chicken in the skillet at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy sliders. Fry in batches for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring Sauce Balance: Overloading on spicy ingredients without balancing them with sweetness can make the bang bang sauce overwhelming. Adjust the sriracha and honey levels to suit your taste preference.
• Forgetting About Fresh Toppings: Neglecting fresh toppings like lettuce or pickles can make sliders less appealing. Always add fresh elements for crunch and flavor contrast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover sliders in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

• Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They will stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat sliders for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place sliders on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30-45 seconds. Note that this may make them slightly less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm sliders for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute turkey breast for chicken in this recipe. Ensure it is cooked thoroughly before serving.

How can I customize my Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

Feel free to add toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or different sauces based on your preferences!

What sides pair well with Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

These sliders go great with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a simple garden salad.

How do I make the sauce spicier?

To increase the spice level of your bang bang sauce, simply add more sriracha or include diced fresh chili peppers.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner, these sliders will impress everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings or sauces!