Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy chicken and creamy, spicy sauce, all nestled between a soft slider bun. These sliders are ideal for parties, game days, or even a quick dinner that packs a punch of flavor. The chicken is coated in a light, crispy breading and fried to golden perfection before being topped with gooey mozzarella cheese and drizzled with a deliciously spicy Bang Bang sauce. These sliders are fun to make and even more fun to eat, with each bite offering the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and crunch.

With their irresistible flavor and satisfying crunch, Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients, but they feel like a special treat. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a quick dinner, these sliders will be a hit every time. The crispy chicken, paired with the rich and tangy Bang Bang sauce, makes for a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are not only incredibly tasty but also quick and easy to prepare, taking just 20 minutes to make. The crispy chicken, topped with mozzarella cheese and spicy Bang Bang sauce, is a flavor-packed combination that’s sure to please anyone. The sliders are versatile enough to serve as a party appetizer, a main dish, or a fun twist on a traditional sandwich. The contrast of the crispy chicken with the creamy sauce and the soft bun creates a delightful balance that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re customizable – you can adjust the level of spice to your preference and add your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

• Thin sliced chicken breasts
• Kosher salt, fresh black pepper, and garlic powder for seasoning the chicken
• Flour
• Cornstarch
• Buttermilk
• Hot sauce
• Large egg
• Panko bread crumbs
• Vegetable or canola oil for frying
• Mozzarella cheese slices
• Slider rolls
• Bang Bang Sauce

Variations

1. Add Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! You can add lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, or even a slice of avocado for extra freshness.
2. Make it Spicy: If you want to crank up the heat, add extra hot sauce to the Bang Bang sauce or sprinkle some chili flakes on the chicken before frying.
3. Swap the Cheese: If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, you can use cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
4. Baked Option: For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it. Simply place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until crispy and golden.
5. Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and flour to make this recipe gluten-free. You can also use rice flour for the breading for an extra crispy texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the thinly sliced chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This will ensure the chicken is flavorful before frying.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, combine flour and cornstarch. In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, and egg. In a third bowl, place the panko bread crumbs.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each seasoned chicken breast first into the flour mixture, coating it lightly. Then dip it into the buttermilk mixture, followed by a coating of panko bread crumbs. Press down on the crumbs to make sure the chicken is well coated.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable or canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken in the skillet, frying for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each piece of chicken and allow it to melt slightly. Then, place the chicken on slider rolls, and drizzle with a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders immediately with extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
2. Test the Oil Temperature: To make sure the oil is at the right temperature for frying, drop a small piece of breading into the oil. If it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
3. Crispier Chicken: For extra crispy chicken, double bread the chicken by dipping it in the flour mixture, then the buttermilk mixture, and back into the panko bread crumbs for a thicker coating.
4. Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken breasts will have a better texture than frozen. If you do use frozen chicken, be sure to fully thaw it before breading and frying.
5. Customize the Heat: Adjust the hot sauce in the Bang Bang sauce to your preferred spice level. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of hot sauce or opt for a mild variety.

How to Serve

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are best served fresh and hot. They make a perfect appetizer for parties, game days, or even a fun family dinner. Pair them with a side of crispy fries, a light salad, or even some coleslaw for a complete meal. These sliders are also great for meal prepping and can be packed for lunches or enjoyed as a snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the chicken and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will help keep the breading crispy.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooked chicken on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen chicken to a freezer-safe container or bag. The chicken can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker, crispier result.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the chicken can be breaded and refrigerated ahead of time, it’s best to fry the chicken just before serving to keep it crispy.

2. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy. This is a lighter alternative to frying.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for chicken breasts. They will add more flavor and moisture.

4. Can I make the Bang Bang sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Mozzarella is a great option for these sliders, but you can also use cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

6. How do I make the Bang Bang sauce spicier?

Increase the amount of hot sauce in the Bang Bang sauce or add a bit of sriracha for an extra spicy kick.

7. Can I use regular bread crumbs instead of panko?

Panko bread crumbs create a crispier texture, but you can substitute regular bread crumbs if needed.

8. Can I use a different type of sauce instead of Bang Bang sauce?

If you prefer, you can swap the Bang Bang sauce for ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a creamy buffalo sauce.

9. How do I keep the chicken crispy?

To keep the chicken crispy, avoid placing it on paper towels after frying. Instead, place it on a wire rack to allow air to circulate around the chicken.

10. Can I make these sliders without the breading?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can grill or bake the chicken without breading and still enjoy the delicious flavors of the Bang Bang sauce.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings together crispy, flavorful chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or craving something indulgent, these sliders will surely hit the spot. Their irresistible combination of textures and bold flavors makes them a standout dish that everyone will love. Enjoy these sliders hot, with extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping, and savor every bite!

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