Are you ready to elevate your slider game? The Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a culinary delight that combines juicy chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce, creating a flavor explosion that will leave your guests begging for more. But what exactly makes these sliders so irresistible? The secret lies in the perfect blend of textures and flavors that challenge the notion that sliders have to be boring. In this post, we’ll guide you through making these mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken Sliders from scratch, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Ingredients List

To create the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for a leaner option)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt for a tangy flavor)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works best)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste for heat)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)

For Serving:

• Slider buns (mini brioche or whole wheat)
• Shredded lettuce (for crunch)
• Sliced cucumbers (optional, for freshness)
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Suggested Substitutions:

• Chicken: Use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
• Sauce: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly and fit perfectly on the sliders.

Step 2: Create the Breading Station

In one bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, pour the buttermilk. This will be your breading station.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken first into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well coated for a crispy texture.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is frying, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and honey in a bowl. Adjust the sriracha based on your heat preference.

Step 6: Assemble the Sliders

Once the chicken is cooked, drain on paper towels. Place a piece of chicken on each slider bun, drizzle generously with Bang Bang sauce, and top with shredded lettuce and sliced cucumbers. Garnish with fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders warm with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for one Bang Bang Chicken Slider (including bun and toppings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Total Fat	18g
Saturated Fat	4g
Cholesterol	60mg
Sodium	600mg
Total Carbohydrates	28g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	5g
Protein	15g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders healthier, consider these modifications:

• Baking Instead of Frying: Bake the breaded chicken pieces at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes for a healthier option.
• Whole Grain Buns: Opt for whole grain or lettuce wraps instead of traditional slider buns for added fiber.
• Lower-Calorie Sauce: Use a low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to reduce calories and fat in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders even more appealing:

• Side Dishes: Pair with sweet potato fries or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Party Platter: Arrange sliders on a platter with colorful toothpicks for a fun party appetizer.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or additional Bang Bang sauce for guests to choose from.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders turn out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many chicken pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy chicken. Fry in batches for the best results.
• Not Draining Oil: Failing to drain the fried chicken properly can lead to greasy sliders. Use paper towels to absorb excess oil.
• Skipping the Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce is what makes these sliders special! Don’t skimp on it—drizzle generously.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead of time, here’s how to store your sliders:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken pieces separately from the buns. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake in the oven until heated through.

Conclusion

In summary, the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings, these sliders are sure to be a hit with everyone. Try this recipe today, and share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more exciting recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option, but they may not be as juicy as thighs. Consider marinating them for extra flavor.

2. How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less sriracha. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to find your preferred heat level.

3. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Assemble the sliders just before serving for the best texture.