Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

If you’re craving a bite-sized explosion of flavor, the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe is exactly what you need. These little bundles bring together crispy, juicy chicken coated in a perfectly spicy, creamy, tangy bang bang sauce, nested inside soft slider buns with fresh, crunchy toppings. It’s comfort food with a fun, exciting twist that’s perfect for sharing at parties, game days, or even a weeknight treat. Trust me, once you try these sliders, you’ll find yourself making them again and again because they hit all the right notes for spice, crunch, and freshness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the list intimidate you—the ingredients for this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe are straightforward, simple, and each one plays a critical role in building that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the tangy buttermilk bath that tenderizes the chicken to the crunchy panko coating and zingy sauce, every component is essential for that crave-worthy bite.

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes tender and juicy after marinating and frying.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderness to the chicken during marination.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle yet depth of savory flavor throughout the chicken and sauce.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor complexity with a gentle sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds mild smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken’s coating.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasonings that brighten and balance all flavors.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the first layer for the crispy coating on the chicken.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Gives that irresistible crunch to each slider bite.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Needed to achieve that golden crispy exterior on the chicken.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce.
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a mild heat to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce: Brings that signature spicy kick which makes the bang bang sauce unforgettable.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the heat with a touch of natural sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens the sauce with a fresh citrus zing.
• 12 mini slider buns: Perfectly sized carriers for the flavorful chicken and toppings.
• 1 cup shredded lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness to complement the rich sauce.
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion: Provides a sharp bite that cuts through the creaminess.
• 1/2 cup pickles (optional): Offers a tangy, briny contrast that boosts flavor depth.
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Brings fresh herbal notes that brighten each bite.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces, perfect for slider portions. Combine the buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Submerge the chicken pieces completely in this marinade, cover it, and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight. This simple soak tenderizes the meat and infuses it with incredible, layered flavors, setting the stage for crispy, juicy bites.

Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

Mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder in a medium bowl until smooth. Taste and tweak the heat level by adding more sriracha or sweetness with honey if necessary. This creamy, spicy, sweet sauce is what truly defines the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe, delivering that addictive bang bang flavor you’ll crave.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs. Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off gently before dredging each piece thoroughly in the flour-panko coating. Heat about an inch of vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the coated chicken pieces in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until beautifully golden and cooked through. Drain them on paper towels to keep the coating crisp.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Lightly toast the mini slider buns to warm and add a subtle crunch. Spread a generous dollop of your prepared Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each bun, layer on several pieces of fried chicken, then top with shredded lettuce, thin red onion slices, and pickles if you like. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a bright, herby kick before crowning with the top bun. Each bite is a fantastic harmony of textures and flavors.

Step 5: Serve

Arrange the sliders on a serving platter and offer extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping. These sliders are best served fresh and hot, making them a crowd-pleaser for parties, game days, or casual family dinners. Their perfect size and irresistible flavor make them tough to share!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

Garnishes

Topping your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders with fresh cilantro adds an exciting pop of color and herby brightness that complements the spicy sauce beautifully. If you want to layer in more flavor, crisp pickles deliver tangy crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy chicken and sauce blend. Thinly sliced red onion also offers a sharp contrast, balancing the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

These sliders shine alongside light, fresh sides like a crisp coleslaw or cucumber salad that bring refreshing coolness. Sweet potato fries or classic French fries offer a satisfying crunch and salty counterpoint, making your meal feel complete and indulgent. For a healthier touch, pair with roasted veggies or a vibrant green salad to keep things bright and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the bun with your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe by serving them on a large wooden board with little bowls of extra Bang Bang sauce and pickles for guests to customize their bites. You can also stack sliders vertically on skewers for a fun finger-food presentation at parties. For a unique spin, offer mini slider “bars” where everyone can build their own with varied toppings like avocado slices, jalapeños, or different cheeses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the buns from getting soggy, consider storing the fried chicken and buns separately, then assemble fresh when ready to serve again. This ensures the sliders retain their delicious contrast of crisp and softness.

Freezing

If you want to make this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe in advance, freeze the cooked, coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Slider buns are best fresh but can be frozen separately and thawed quickly. Keep the sauce refrigerated and freshly added after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken pieces in a 375°F oven on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes or until hot and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the coating soggy. Warm the buns separately in a toaster or oven, then assemble the sliders right before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I make this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can swap the chicken for crispy fried tofu or cauliflower florets coated and fried just like the chicken. The bang bang sauce works beautifully with these vegetarian options, giving you the same spicy, creamy kick.

How spicy are these sliders?

The sliders have a moderate heat from the sriracha in the bang bang sauce, but you can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha to suit your taste buds. The honey and sweet chili sauce help balance the heat nicely.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes! For a lighter version, bake the coated chicken pieces at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through. It’s a great alternative that still delivers plenty of crunch and flavor without the extra oil.

What’s the best way to keep the sliders from getting soggy?

Keep the fried chicken and buns separate if you’re not assembling right away. Toasting the buns adds a moisture barrier, and adding the bang bang sauce just before serving helps keep everything crisp and fresh.

Can I prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using. Making the sauce ahead actually allows the flavors to meld and deepen, making your sliders even tastier.

Final Thoughts

Once you dive into this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe, you’ll find it hard not to make these again and again. They offer a perfect harmony of bold flavors, crispy textures, and fresh toppings that bring life to every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, these sliders are a total winner. So grab your apron and start cooking your new favorite finger food—it’s a delicious adventure you won’t regret!

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