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Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

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Craving that famous creamy-spicy flavor? This Bang Bang Chicken Sliders recipe delivers the perfect copycat sauce with a kick of sriracha and sweetness, all on mini buns. The ultimate party snack that’s sure to be a hit!

Brad Laurent
By Brad Laurent
Pin itBang Bang Chicken Sliders on Brioche BunsBang Bang Chicken Sliders on Brioche Buns | recipesbybrad.comClose-up of spicy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders stacked on brioche buns with fresh slaw and sauce

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: A Spicy and Flavorful Snack Recipe

Quick Overview

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a crowd-pleasing treat that combines tender fried chicken tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce served on mini buns. These sliders bring together bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or want a fun twist on lunch, this recipe delivers an exciting blend of heat and creaminess that’s easy to prepare. In this article, you'll learn how to make these delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders step-by-step with tips on ingredients and storage to keep them fresh.

Ingredient Breakdown

Mini Slider Buns

Mini brioche slider buns work best for these sandwiches because they are soft yet sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart. Their slightly sweet flavor balances the spiciness of the sauce perfectly.

Boneless Chicken Thighs (1 lb)

Using boneless chicken thighs keeps the meat juicy and tender after frying or baking. Thighs also absorb flavors better than breast meat and stay moist under the creamy sauce.

Cornstarch (½ cup)

Cornstarch is essential for coating the chicken pieces before frying. It helps create a crispy outer layer that locks moisture inside while giving the sliders their signature crunch.

Mayonnaise (½ cup)

Mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce. It adds richness and smooth texture while balancing out the heat from other ingredients.

Sweet Chili Sauce (¼ cup)

Sweet chili sauce provides both sweetness and mild heat to the bang bang sauce. This ingredient introduces layers of flavor with its garlicky and tangy notes.

Sriracha Sauce (2 tablespoons)

Sriracha adds a punch of spice to the sauce for those who love some heat. You can adjust this quantity depending on your preferred spice level.

Rice Vinegar (1 tablespoon)

Rice vinegar brightens the sauce with its subtle acidity. It cuts through the richness of mayo and balances sweetness for a well-rounded taste.

Shredded Cabbage (1 cup)

A crunchy shredded cabbage slaw adds freshness and texture inside each slider. It also lightens up the sandwich by introducing a crisp vegetable element.

Carrots (½ cup shredded)

Shredded carrots mix into the slaw offering natural sweetness and vibrant color that complements both the cabbage and spicy chicken.

Green Onions (2 stalks sliced)

Green onions add mild onion flavor plus a touch of sharpness in every bite when sprinkled over the slaw or mixed into it.

Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Salt enhances all flavors while pepper adds subtle warmth; seasoning is important throughout to keep balance in both dressing and chicken coating. Recipe preparation image

Recipe preparation step

Step By step Recipe: Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Preparing the Chicken Coating and Frying

Start by cutting boneless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces about 1-inch thick. Season with salt and pepper lightly then toss them in cornstarch until fully coated. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, approximately 5-6 minutes per batch. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce

In a medium bowl combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. Taste test your sauce for spice level—add more sriracha if desired for extra heat or adjust vinegar for tanginess. Set aside to allow flavors to meld while preparing other components.

Preparing Fresh Slaw Mix

In another bowl mix shredded cabbage, carrots, sliced green onions along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss together gently so vegetables remain crunchy but well combined. The slaw offers refreshing contrast against rich fried chicken coated in spicy sauce.

Assembling Your Sliders

Lightly toast your mini slider buns to add texture but avoid drying them out completely—you want softness inside complemented by slight crunch outside from toasting. Spread a small amount of bang bang sauce onto both halves of each bun first before adding several pieces of crispy chicken tossed generously with more bang bang sauce for full flavor coverage. Next pile some fresh vegetable slaw atop each sandwich then close with bun tops pressed gently to hold fillings without squishing too much juice out from inside these flavorful bites ready to serve immediately.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Recommendations

Serve these sliders warm accompanied by extra bang bang sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling as desired by guests’ spiciness preferences. Pair them with simple sides like sweet potato fries or crisp garden salad for balanced meal options suitable at parties or family dinners alike.

Storing Leftover Sliders

If you have leftover sliders after serving, separate components before storing if possible—keep fried chicken tightly sealed in an airtight container at room temperature no longer than 2 hours or refrigerate within 2 hours maximum storing up to 3 days safely chilled keep slaw separately covered so it stays crisp longer without wilting inside fridge.

Mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when making Bang Bang Chicken Sliders is using too much sauce. Overloading the sliders with sauce can make them soggy and difficult to eat, detracting from the overall texture and flavor balance. Instead, apply a moderate amount of bang bang sauce to maintain that perfect mix of spicy, creamy, and crispy. Remember that the sauce should complement the chicken, not overpower it.

Another mistake is not properly preparing the chicken. Using chicken that is unevenly cooked or too thick can cause inconsistent textures in your sliders. Aim for thinly sliced or shredded chicken for even cooking and easier assembly. This will help maintain a tender bite and allow the flavors to meld well within each slider.

Skipping fresh ingredients like lettuce or herbs reduces the freshness factor in your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. Fresh greens add a crisp contrast to the creamy sauce and tender chicken, creating a more balanced bite. Failing to include these elements can result in a slider that tastes flat or heavy.

Using buns that are too large or dense is another error often made. Oversized buns can overshadow the delicate flavors of the filling and make eating messy. Opt for small, soft slider buns that hold everything together without overwhelming the contents.

Finally, neglecting to toast the buns slightly before assembling leads to soggy bottoms once sauce and fillings are added. Toasting adds structure and prevents moisture from soaking into the bread too quickly, keeping your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders enjoyable until the last bite.

Tips and tricks

To create perfectly balanced Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, start by making your own bang bang sauce from scratch. Combining mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a touch of honey gives you control over sweetness and heat levels. Homemade sauce tastes fresher and can be adjusted easily to suit your preferences, ensuring every bite packs just the right punch.

When preparing chicken for these sliders, consider poaching boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs for juicy results before shredding. Poached chicken retains moisture better than grilled or baked versions if you want a tender interior that soaks up flavors well. After cooking, toss shredded chicken in some bang bang sauce lightly before assembling.

Don’t underestimate the power of fresh produce in these sandwiches. Crisp lettuce leaves such as iceberg or romaine add crunch while thinly sliced cucumbers provide refreshing coolness against spicy elements. Adding finely chopped cilantro or green onions introduces an herbal note that lifts the entire dish’s taste profile significantly.

For assembling your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders efficiently during gatherings or parties, prep ingredients separately beforehand: shred chicken, prepare sauces, slice veggies, and toast buns just prior to serving. This approach minimizes last-minute stress and ensures each slider remains fresh and warm when served.

Consider adding a crunchy element by tossing shredded cabbage or carrots into your filling mix or on top of assembled sliders. The extra crunch contrasts nicely with creamy sauce and tender meat while introducing additional color and nutrients to your meal without complicating preparation steps.

Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Try pairing your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders with pickled jalapeños or sliced radishes for an extra layer of tangy heat that complements the creamy bang bang sauce beautifully. These additions add brightness and texture without overpowering other flavors.

For bun alternatives, experiment with mini brioche rolls or Hawaiian sweet rolls instead of classic slider buns. Their slight sweetness balances out spicy notes while providing a soft yet sturdy base perfect for holding juicy fillings together during eating.

If you want to make this dish gluten-free, swap regular bread buns with lettuce wraps or gluten-free slider buns readily available in most grocery stores now. Both options keep things light while accommodating dietary needs without sacrificing taste or presentation quality.

Add an unexpected twist by including avocado slices inside your sliders; their creamy texture pairs well with spicy sauces while adding healthy fats that keep you fuller longer after enjoying this flavorful meal option.

To boost nutrition without changing flavors drastically, mix finely grated carrots into shredded chicken before tossing it with bang bang sauce. This sneaky addition increases fiber content subtly while maintaining all original taste profiles intact.

FAQs

What makes Bang Bang Chicken Sliders different from regular chicken sliders?

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders stand out because they feature a distinctive "bang bang" sauce—a blend of spicy chili sauce combined with creamy mayo—giving them a signature sweet-spicy flavor profile unlike typical chicken sliders which may use barbecue or plain mayo-based sauces.

Can I prepare Bang Bang Chicken Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep components like cooked shredded chicken tossed lightly in bang bang sauce ahead but assemble sliders just before serving to prevent buns from getting soggy. Store toasted buns separately at room temperature for best results.

Are there vegetarian alternatives for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

Absolutely! Use crispy fried tofu cubes or cauliflower “wings” tossed in bang bang sauce as tasty plant-based substitutes. They replicate similar textures and absorb flavors well while keeping this dish accessible for vegetarians.

How spicy are traditional Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

The spiciness depends largely on how much sriracha or chili sauce goes into your homemade bang bang sauce recipe. It usually has moderate heat—enough for warmth but not overwhelming—making it approachable even for those sensitive to spice who can adjust accordingly.

What side dishes pair well with Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

Light sides like coleslaw, cucumber salad, or sweet potato fries complement these sliders perfectly by balancing richness with fresh crunchiness. Avoid heavy sides so the bold flavors remain front and center on your plate.

Can I freeze leftover Bang Bang Chicken Slider components?

You can freeze cooked shredded chicken without buns safely up to 2 months but it’s best to freeze sauces separately if possible since freezing may alter texture slightly upon thawing. Assemble sliders fresh after defrosting all ingredients thoroughly in fridge overnight.

Summary

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders combine tender shredded chicken with a creamy spicy sauce wrapped in soft slider buns for an irresistible snack or meal option. Avoid common mistakes like over-saucing or skipping fresh ingredients to maintain perfect texture and flavor balance throughout each bite. Preparing homemade sauces and fresh produce enhances taste significantly while simple assembly tips make serving easy during any occasion. With versatile suggestions including vegetarian swaps and bun alternatives plus quick answers about preparation stored safely provided here, you have all tools needed to master delicious homemade Bang Bang Chicken Sliders effortlessly every time!


Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Craving that famous creamy-spicy flavor? These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders deliver a perfect copycat sauce with a kick of sriracha and sweetness on mini buns — the ultimate party snack guaranteed to impress!

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 35 mins
  • Author: Brad
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Difficulty: Beginner
  • Cuisine: Asian Fusion
  • Yield: 10 sliders
  • Dietary:

Ingredients

Chicken & Marinade

  1. 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into small bite-sized pieces)
  2. ½ tsp kosher salt
  3. ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  4. ½ cup buttermilk (for tenderizing)
  5. ¾ cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  6. ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
  7. Vegetable oil (for frying – about enough to deep fry about half the chicken pieces at once)

Bang Bang Sauce & Garnish

  1. ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
  2. ¼ cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  3. ¼ tsp garlic powder
  4. ¼ tsp onion powder
  5. ½ tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste for spice level)
  6. ½ tbsp honey (adds balanced sweetness)
  7. Mini slider buns or dinner rolls (about 10 buns)
  8. Crisp lettuce leaves or shredded cabbage (for crunch and freshness)
  9. Sliced green onions or chives (optional garnish)
  10. Cilantro leaves (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Tenderize the chicken: Place chicken pieces in a bowl and sprinkle with salt and pepper evenly. Pour buttermilk over chicken and stir gently to coat all pieces. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes up to overnight.
  2. Dredge the chicken: In a shallow dish or bowl, combine the flour and cornstarch thoroughly. Remove chicken from marinade letting excess drip off and toss pieces into the flour mixture one by one until fully coated.
  3. Heat oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy pot to about two inches deep. Heat over medium-high heat to reach approximately 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer if possible for accuracy.
  4. Fry the chicken: Carefully add coated chicken pieces in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Chicken should be crisp outside with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Drain on paper towels.
  5. Make the bang bang sauce: In a mixing bowl combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, sriracha, and honey. Whisk until smooth and creamy with balanced spicy-sweet flavor.
  6. Toss chicken in sauce: Place fried chicken in a large bowl. Pour desired amount of bang bang sauce over the hot chicken pieces — usually about half or more of the sauce depending on preference. Toss gently until each piece is well coated but not drenched.
  7. Assemble sliders: Slice mini buns horizontally if not pre-sliced. Place a leaf of lettuce or spoon shredded cabbage on bottom bun. Add several sauced chicken pieces evenly over it. Drizzle additional bang bang sauce if desired. Garnish with sliced green onions and cilantro leaves. Cap with top bun.
  8. Serve immediately: Arrange sliders on a serving platter while warm. Ideal as finger food at parties or game day snacks!

Notes

  • You can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts but thighs yield juicier results.
  • If you prefer baked instead of fried, bake coated chicken at 425°F (220°C) for ~15 minutes per side.
  • The sauce can be made ahead & refrigerated up to three days—bring to room temp before tossing with chicken.
  • Add more sriracha if you want an extra spicy kick or reduce honey for less sweetness.

Tools You'll Need

  • Liquid measuring cup & dry measuring cups/spoons
  • Bowl for marinating & mixing sauce
  • Tongs or slotted spoon for frying
  • Thermometer for oil temperature & internal meat temp recommended
  • A deep skillet or heavy pot for frying
  • Baking sheet lined with paper towels
  • Spoons & spatula for mixing/tossing ingredients

Allergy Information & Disclaimer

Please check all ingredient labels carefully if you have allergies or dietary restrictions as formulations may vary by brand or source. This recipe contains wheat/gluten (flour), eggs/dairy in mayonnaise/buttermilk—please adjust accordingly if needed. No guarantees are made regarding allergen cross-contamination outside of your control. Enjoy safely!

Nutrition Facts Disclaimer

Nutrition information is approximate and will vary depending on exact ingredients used and portion sizes. This is an indulgent appetizer/snack intended primarily for pleasure rather than strict nutritional control. For detailed dietary planning please consult nutrition software or professionals as needed. Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders responsibly!


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