Bang Bang Chicken Sliders offer a delightful twist on traditional sliders, featuring crispy, tender chicken coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that balances sweet and savory flavors with just the right amount of heat. Perfect for parties or a new family dinner idea, these bite-sized sandwiches are sure to impress.
FULL RECIPE:
Ingredients
- 2-3 chicken breasts or chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Slider buns
- Lettuce, pickles, and other toppings (optional)
Directions
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Prepare the Chicken:
- If using chicken breasts, slice them into smaller pieces to fit the slider buns.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip into the beaten egg, and coat with panko breadcrumbs.
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Fry the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the breaded chicken pieces for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.
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Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar.
- Stir until smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of sriracha depending on your preferred spice level.
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Assemble the Sliders:
- Place a small piece of lettuce and a slice of pickle on the bottom of each slider bun.
- Add a crispy piece of chicken and drizzle generously with the Bang Bang sauce.
- Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately!
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 425 kcal per slider
- Protein: Approximately 25g per slider
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35g per slider
- Fat: Approximately 20g per slider
- Fiber: Approximately 2g per slider
- Sugar: Approximately 5g per slider
- Sodium: Approximately 800mg per slider
The Origins of Bang Bang Chicken
Bang Bang Chicken, originally a Sichuan dish, is known for its bold and spicy flavors. Traditionally, it consists of poached chicken drizzled with a spicy, nutty sauce made from sesame paste, soy sauce, and chili oil. The name “Bang Bang” comes from the Chinese method of tenderizing the chicken using a stick or mallet. Over time, variations of this dish have evolved, including the modern Bang Bang sauce, which combines creamy, sweet, and spicy elements to create a balanced yet bold taste. Bang Bang Chicken Sliders take inspiration from this traditional dish but add a crispy, fried element to make it more appealing to those who enjoy crunchy textures. The addition of a soft slider bun further enhances the dish, making it a convenient, bite-sized option for parties and casual meals.
Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
These sliders are an excellent choice for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a game night, a family dinner, or looking for a quick and easy meal that delivers big flavors. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – The combination of crispy chicken, spicy and creamy Bang Bang sauce, and soft buns creates a delicious contrast.
- Easy to Customize – You can easily adjust the spice level, switch up toppings, or even use different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a unique variation.
- Ideal for Entertaining – Their small size makes them perfect for serving at gatherings, ensuring guests can enjoy a flavorful dish without the need for utensils.
- Great for Meal Prep – The chicken can be fried ahead of time and reheated, making this recipe convenient for busy schedules.
The Secret Behind the Bang Bang Sauce
The magic of Bang Bang Chicken Sliders lies in the sauce. Unlike traditional Bang Bang Chicken, which uses sesame paste and soy sauce, this modernized version incorporates mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance:
- Mayonnaise adds a creamy, rich texture that helps bind all the flavors together.
- Sweet chili sauce provides a mild sweetness with a subtle heat that balances the spiciness of the sriracha.
- Sriracha delivers the signature heat, making the sauce stand out with its bold, tangy spice.
- Rice vinegar enhances the sauce with a slight tanginess, cutting through the richness of the mayonnaise.
Best Sides to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
To make this dish a complete meal, you can pair it with several delicious sides. Here are a few options:
- Coleslaw – The fresh crunch and tangy flavor of coleslaw complement the crispy chicken beautifully.
- Sweet Potato Fries – Their natural sweetness pairs well with the spicy Bang Bang sauce.
- Garlic Parmesan Fries – A savory side that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Grilled Vegetables – A lighter option that balances out the richness of the sliders.
- Mac and Cheese – For a more indulgent meal, mac and cheese makes an excellent companion.
Customizing Your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Swap the Protein – Instead of chicken, try shrimp, tofu, or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option.
- Make It Healthier – Instead of frying, opt for baking or air frying the chicken to cut down on oil.
- Spice It Up – Add extra sriracha or even crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Experiment with Toppings – Try pickled onions, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of honey for a twist.
Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs – Panko gives the chicken a crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
- Double Coat for Extra Crunch – For a thicker and crunchier coating, dip the chicken in egg and panko twice before frying.
- Toast the Buns – Lightly toasting the slider buns adds a nice contrast to the soft interior and prevents them from getting soggy.
- Let the Chicken Rest – Allowing the fried chicken to sit for a couple of minutes on a wire rack helps retain crispiness.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, you can store them properly to maintain freshness.
- Refrigeration – Store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – For longer storage, freeze the breaded (but uncooked) chicken and fry it fresh when needed.
- Reheating – To keep the chicken crispy, reheat in an oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or air fry at 350°F for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and creamy flavors, making them an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family meal, or just to treat yourself, these sliders are sure to be a hit. The versatility of the recipe allows you to tweak it to your preferences, making it a must-have in your collection of go-to meals.