If you’re looking for a dish that packs a punch of flavor in every bite, look no further than Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. These sliders are a perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet, making them an irresistible choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family dinner, or just craving something different, these sliders are sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a modern twist on traditional chicken sliders, featuring tender chicken coated in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce. The sauce, a blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, is what gives these sliders their signature flavor. It’s a quick and easy recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results, perfect for impressing your guests or treating yourself to something special.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious sliders:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 12 slider buns (preferably brioche or Hawaiian rolls)
- 2 cups shredded lettuce (optional)
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber (optional)
- 1/2 cup pickled red onions (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To prepare Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:
- Sharp knife and cutting board: For slicing the chicken and optional toppings.
- Shallow bowls or plates: For dredging the chicken in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Large skillet: For frying the chicken.
- Mixing bowl: To prepare the Bang Bang sauce.
- Tongs: For handling the chicken while frying.
- Paper towels: For draining excess oil from the fried chicken.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Follow these steps to create these flavorful sliders:
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge the Chicken: Coat each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it in the beaten eggs, followed by the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth and well combined. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your preferred level of spiciness.
- Assemble the Sliders: Toast the slider buns lightly if desired. Place a piece of fried chicken on the bottom half of each bun, then drizzle with a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce. Add shredded lettuce, sliced cucumber, and pickled red onions if using. Top with fresh cilantro leaves and cover with the top half of the bun.
- Serve: Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders immediately while the chicken is still warm and crispy.
Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
- Chicken Choice: Chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe because they stay moist and tender when fried, but chicken breasts can also be used if you prefer.
- Extra Crunch: For an even crispier coating, you can double-dip the chicken in the egg and panko breadcrumbs.
- Bang Bang Sauce: The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s also great as a dip for fries or as a topping for other sandwiches.
Variations on Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
- Grilled Version: For a lighter version, skip the frying and grill the chicken instead. Marinate the chicken in a little of the Bang Bang sauce before grilling for extra flavor.
- Bang Bang Shrimp Sliders: Swap out the chicken for crispy fried shrimp to create a seafood twist on this recipe.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with crispy tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian-friendly version of Bang Bang sliders.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the fried chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat the chicken, place it on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain the crispiness of the chicken.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
These sliders pair well with a variety of sides, such as:
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of the fries complements the spicy Bang Bang sauce perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to the meal.
- Pickles: Serve with a side of pickles to cut through the richness of the fried chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. For extra crispiness, spray the chicken with cooking spray before baking.
Q: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to assemble the sliders just before serving, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Store them separately and assemble the sliders when ready to serve.
Q: What other toppings can I add?
A: Feel free to get creative! Avocado slices, jalapeños, or a drizzle of honey could all make delicious additions to these sliders.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a fun, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them for dinner, or making them for a casual lunch, these sliders are sure to impress. The combination of crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings creates a perfect bite every time.