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This hearty Bang Bang Chicken Sliders recipe brings together crispy chicken and spicy, creamy sauce for a perfect handheld treat that's sure to impress. I discovered this fusion dish years ago at a neighborhood potluck and have been perfecting it ever since.
I first made these sliders for a spontaneous game night with friends, and they disappeared before halftime. Now they're requested at every gathering I host, and I've taught several family members how to make them too.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or tenders: the foundation of our sliders, choose fresh, even-sized pieces for consistent cooking
- Panko breadcrumbs: essential for that signature crunch that regular breadcrumbs just can't deliver
- Egg: acts as the perfect glue to help your coating stick beautifully to the chicken
- All-purpose flour: creates the first layer of your breading system for perfectly crispy chicken
- Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base of our bang bang sauce look for real mayo not salad dressing
- Sweet chili sauce: provides the perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat
- Sriracha: adds the characteristic spicy kick that makes bang bang sauce famous
- Rice vinegar: brings necessary acidity to balance the rich mayo and sweet chili flavors
- Slider buns: I recommend brioche for their slightly sweet flavor and soft texture
- Lettuce, pickles, and optional toppings: for freshness and texture contrast
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Chicken:
- Cut chicken breasts into slider-sized portions ensuring they'll fit perfectly on your buns. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This step is crucial as it layers flavor into the chicken itself not just the coating.
- Create Your Breading Station:
- Set up three shallow bowls in a row. Fill the first with flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper, the second with a well-beaten egg, and the third with panko breadcrumbs. This organized setup makes the breading process smooth and less messy.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Take each piece of chicken and dredge it thoroughly in flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press firmly into panko breadcrumbs, ensuring complete coverage. The pressing motion helps the breadcrumbs adhere better than just tossing.
- Fry to Perfection:
- Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place breaded chicken pieces in without overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and completely cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for food safety.
- Mix the Bang Bang Sauce:
- While chicken cooks, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Whisk until completely smooth and uniform in color. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed your sauce should have a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, tangy, and spicy notes.
- Assemble Your Sliders:
- Layer each slider bun with a piece of lettuce, add your crispy chicken, then generously drizzle with bang bang sauce. Add pickles or other toppings as desired. The warm chicken will slightly melt the sauce, creating the perfect bite.
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The secret to these sliders is actually in the sauce proportions. I spent weeks testing different ratios until I found this perfect balance. My husband, who typically avoids spicy food, loves these because the sweet chili sauce tempers the heat while still delivering amazing flavor.
Make-Ahead Options
If entertaining, you can bread the chicken up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate on a wire rack. This actually helps the coating adhere better during cooking. The bang bang sauce can be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using.
Flavor Variations
While the classic bang bang sauce is incredible, you can create variations to keep things interesting. Try adding a tablespoon of honey for a sweeter profile, or mix in some grated ginger and garlic for an extra dimension of flavor. For a cooling effect, fold in some finely chopped cucumber or a spoonful of plain yogurt to balance the heat.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders pair beautifully with simple sides like asian slaw, sweet potato fries, or a light cucumber salad. For a complete party spread, serve alongside potstickers, edamame, and cold sesame noodles. If serving for dinner, a side of stir-fried vegetables creates a balanced meal.
The History Behind Bang Bang Sauce
Traditional bang bang sauce originated in Szechuan cuisine, where it was typically served over cold chicken. The name comes from the technique of tenderizing chicken with a wooden mallet or "bang bang" stick. This Americanized version maintains the addictive flavor profile while adapting it to our love of handheld foods and creamy sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make the chicken crispier?
Double coat the chicken by dipping it back in egg and breadcrumbs after the first coating for extra crunch.
- → Can I adjust the spice level in the Bang Bang sauce?
Yes, reduce the sriracha for a milder sauce or add more for a spicier kick. Customize to suit your taste.
- → What toppings work well with these sliders?
Common options include lettuce, pickles, sliced onions, or even a touch of coleslaw for added crunch and flavor.
- → Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
- → What can I serve alongside the sliders?
Serve with French fries, salad, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.