Looking for a game-changing recipe that will be the talk of your next gathering? Meet the Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders—a mouthwatering combination of crispy chicken drenched in a bold, creamy Bang Bang sauce. These sliders pack a punch with just the right amount of heat and crunch, making them perfect for parties, family dinners, or even a casual weeknight treat. With layers of flavor and texture, these sliders will have everyone reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds)!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sliders:
- 12 mini slider buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup pickles (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Directions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, mix together buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
2. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Set aside.
3. Fry the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, mix flour and panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from the marinade and dredge each piece in the flour and panko mixture, coating well.
- Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
- Spread a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce on both the top and bottom of each slider bun.
- Place a piece of fried chicken on each bottom bun, then top with shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, pickles (if using), and fresh cilantro (if desired).
- Close sliders with the top buns and serve immediately.
Serving Tips:
- Serve Fresh: For the best taste and texture, serve the sliders immediately after assembling. This ensures the buns remain soft and the chicken stays crispy.
- Garnish: Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side for a burst of flavor and color.
- Accompaniments: Pair with sides like crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or a refreshing coleslaw to complete the meal.
- Presentation: Arrange the sliders on a platter or serving tray for a visually appealing presentation, especially if you’re serving them at a party or gathering.
- Dips: Consider offering additional dips, such as extra Bang Bang sauce, ranch, or blue cheese dressing, for added flavor options.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftover sliders, store the assembled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days.
- Separate Components: For longer storage, keep the chicken, slider buns, and sauce separate. Store the fried chicken in an airtight container or zip-top bag, and keep the sauce in a separate container in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Reheat the chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness. Avoid using a microwave as it can make the breading soggy. Reheat the slider buns in the oven for a few minutes if they have become soft.
- Freezing: If you need to store sliders for a longer period, freeze the cooked chicken separately from the buns. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
FAQs:
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the components in advance. Marinate the chicken and make the Bang Bang sauce a day ahead. Fry the chicken and assemble the sliders right before serving to maintain the best texture. If you need to store leftovers, keep the chicken, sauce, and buns separately in airtight containers.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
- Certainly! You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts if you prefer. For a healthier version, bake the chicken instead of frying. You can also adjust the level of spiciness in the Bang Bang sauce by varying the amount of sriracha or sweet chili sauce.
How can I make the Bang Bang Sauce less spicy?
- To make the Bang Bang sauce milder, reduce the amount of sriracha sauce or omit it entirely. You can also add more mayonnaise or honey to balance the heat and add a touch of sweetness.
Can I use a different type of bun for these sliders?
- Yes, you can use various types of buns based on your preference. Try whole wheat buns for a healthier option, or even mini pretzel rolls for a different twist. Just ensure the buns are sturdy enough to hold the chicken and toppings.
Conclusion:
These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are perfect for anyone looking to impress their guests with a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing. The crispy chicken combined with the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce makes for a mouthwatering experience in every bite. Whether it’s a party, a game day gathering, or a special family meal, these sliders are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the perfect blend of crunch and spice with these irresistible sliders!