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This hearty Bang Bang Chicken Sliders recipe has become my go-to option for both casual family dinners and entertaining guests. The combination of crispy chicken and spicy-sweet sauce creates an irresistible bite that disappears quickly from any serving platter.
I first made these sliders for a Super Bowl gathering when I needed something substantial but easy to eat while watching the game. They were such a hit that they've now become part of our regular rotation for everything from birthday celebrations to quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or tenders: provides the perfect tender base that crisps beautifully
- Panko breadcrumbs: creates that signature extra crunchy coating that regular breadcrumbs cannot match
- Egg: acts as the essential binding agent that helps the coating adhere properly
- All-purpose flour: creates the first layer that helps everything else stick to the chicken
- Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base of your bang bang sauce
- Sweet chili sauce: adds the perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat
- Sriracha: delivers that signature spicy kick that makes bang bang sauce special
- Rice vinegar: provides a subtle tang that cuts through the richness
- Slider buns: choose brioche buns for extra richness if available
- Optional toppings: fresh lettuce adds crunch while pickles bring acidity to balance the richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut your chicken breasts into slider-sized portions approximately 3 inches across. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Set up your breading station with three separate shallow dishes one for flour one for beaten egg and one for panko breadcrumbs. This assembly line approach makes the breading process much cleaner and more efficient.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Take each piece of seasoned chicken and first coat it completely in flour shaking off any excess. Next dip into the beaten egg ensuring every part is covered. Finally press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs on both sides making sure you get a thick even coating. The panko should completely cover the chicken with no bare spots visible.
- Fry to Perfection:
- Heat about a quarter inch of oil in a heavy skillet until it reaches approximately 350°F. A good test is to drop in a few breadcrumbs they should sizzle immediately but not burn. Carefully place your breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until deeply golden brown then flip and cook another 3 minutes until both sides are evenly crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Create the Bang Bang Sauce:
- While the chicken cooks whisk together mayonnaise sweet chili sauce sriracha and rice vinegar in a small bowl until completely smooth. The sauce should have a beautiful pale orange color with visible flecks of chili. Taste and adjust the sriracha amount to match your preferred heat level. The sauce should be spicy but still balanced with creaminess and sweetness.
- Assemble Your Sliders:
- Split your slider buns and lightly toast the cut sides if desired. Place a piece of lettuce on the bottom bun followed by a slice of pickle. Position your crispy chicken piece on top ensuring it fits the bun nicely. Generously spoon the bang bang sauce over the chicken allowing it to drip down the sides slightly. Cap with the top bun and secure with a decorative toothpick if serving at a party.
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You Must Know
These sliders pack 425 calories each making them satisfying without being overly heavy The double texture contrast of crispy exterior and juicy interior is what makes these exceptional Can be prepped ahead up to the frying stage to make entertaining easier
Make-Ahead Options
While these sliders are best enjoyed immediately after preparation you can work ahead to make entertaining easier. Bread the chicken pieces up to 8 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. The bang bang sauce actually improves with a few hours in the refrigerator as the flavors meld together beautifully. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just fry the chicken right before serving for the best texture and assemble the sliders while the chicken is still warm.
Perfect Pairings
These sliders work wonderfully with simple sides that complement without competing with their bold flavors. Asian slaw with rice vinegar dressing makes a refreshing accompaniment cutting through the richness. Sweet potato fries offer a complementary sweetness that works well with the spicy sauce. For a lighter option consider a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and a touch of sugar which provides a cooling effect against the spicy bang bang sauce.
Variation Ideas
The basic bang bang slider concept works wonderfully with several variations. Try substituting shrimp for a seafood version cooking just until pink and opaque. For a vegetarian option extra firm tofu pressed and cut into squares works surprisingly well with the same breading technique. The sauce itself can be customized with honey for additional sweetness grated ginger for complexity or lime juice for brightness. Some of my guests prefer adding sriracha mayo on the bottom bun as well for an extra kick of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make the chicken extra crispy?
To make the chicken extra crispy, you can double dredge it. After the first layer of egg and breadcrumbs, repeat the process for an added crunchy coating.
- → Can I adjust the spice level of the Bang Bang sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha. For a milder flavor, reduce the sriracha, and for extra heat, increase the amount.
- → How should I serve these sliders?
Serve the sliders immediately after assembling to maintain the crispy texture of the chicken and the freshness of the toppings.
- → Can these sliders be made ahead of time?
While you can prepare components like the sauce and breaded chicken in advance, it's best to fry the chicken and assemble the sliders just before serving for optimal freshness and texture.
- → What are some optional toppings for the sliders?
You can add lettuce, pickles, tomato slices, or even a slice of cheese to enhance the flavor and texture of your sliders.