Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

If you're looking for a recipe that brings together the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and crunch, then you’re in the right place. These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are not just mouthwateringly delicious, but they are also incredibly fun to make. Whether you're hosting a party, having a casual family dinner, or simply craving something new and exciting, this recipe will satisfy your taste buds in ways you never imagined. Read on to discover how you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dish at home!

What Are Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a delightful fusion of crispy fried chicken, creamy mozzarella cheese, and a tangy, spicy sauce, all nestled within soft, buttery slider rolls. The name "Bang Bang" originates from the famous Bang Bang sauce, a concoction that's both spicy and sweet, traditionally made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a hint of sriracha. The combination of textures and flavors makes these sliders an irresistible treat. Whether you're making them for a game day snack or as a fun twist on dinner, they’re sure to be a hit.

Ingredients List for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

To make the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the final dish, from the crispy chicken to the gooey cheese and the signature Bang Bang sauce. Here's what you'll need:

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds thin-sliced chicken breasts: These cook quickly and evenly, perfect for the sliders.
• Kosher salt, Fresh black pepper, and garlic powder: These basic seasonings enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
• ½ cup flour: A base for dredging the chicken, helping to create a crispy coating.
• ¼ cup cornstarch: Adds extra crispiness to the chicken’s exterior.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken and helps the breading stick.
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce: Adds a touch of heat to the marinade.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder for the breading.
• 2 cups (or more as needed) Panko bread crumbs: For an extra crispy and crunchy texture.
• Vegetable or canola oil for frying: Ensures an even, golden-brown fry.

For the Sliders:

• 12 slices mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the crispy chicken, adding creaminess.
• 12 slider rolls: Soft, buttery rolls that perfectly cradle the chicken.
• Bang Bang Sauce: The star of the show! You can make your own or use store-bought.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily substitute or add ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs:

• Chicken Options: If you're not a fan of chicken breasts, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier bite. Alternatively, use boneless chicken tenders or even pre-cooked chicken strips for convenience.
• Bread Crumbs: While Panko is recommended for its crunch, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
• Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice, but you can experiment with cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
• Bang Bang Sauce: If you want to try a different sauce, consider using buffalo sauce for a fiery twist or honey mustard for a sweeter alternative.
• Slider Rolls: Swap out regular slider rolls for brioche buns or Hawaiian rolls for an extra layer of flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you've gathered all your ingredients, it's time to dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps to ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders turn out perfectly crispy, juicy, and delicious.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with kosher salt, fresh black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure both sides are well-coated to ensure maximum flavor.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Create a breading station with three separate bowls. In the first bowl, mix the flour and cornstarch. In the second bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, and egg. The third bowl should contain the Panko bread crumbs.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Next, dip the chicken into the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the Panko bread crumbs, making sure it’s evenly covered.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Heat vegetable or canola oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the pan. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

While the chicken is still hot, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each piece, allowing it to melt slightly. Then, slice the slider rolls in half and place a chicken breast on the bottom half of each roll. Drizzle generously with Bang Bang sauce and cover with the top half of the roll.

How to Cook Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: A Step-by-Step Guide

This section breaks down the process into even more detail, ensuring that you’ll nail this recipe every single time.

Step 1: Seasoning the Chicken
Before anything else, make sure your chicken is well-seasoned. The combination of kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder should be evenly rubbed into both sides of the chicken breasts. This step infuses the meat with flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Preparing the Breading Station
Having an organized breading station is crucial for a smooth cooking process. Start with a clean, flat surface where you can line up your bowls. The flour and cornstarch mixture creates the base layer, which helps the buttermilk mixture adhere. The buttermilk and egg not only add flavor but also moisture, helping the Panko crumbs stick better.

Step 3: Breading the Chicken
Take your time when breading the chicken. First, coat the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks. Then, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, turning it over to cover all sides. Finally, press the chicken into the Panko breadcrumbs, ensuring that every inch is coated for maximum crunch.

Step 4: Frying the Chicken
When frying, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good test is to drop a breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the top, the oil is ready. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy breading.

Step 5: Assembling the Sliders
As soon as the chicken is done frying, add the mozzarella cheese. The residual heat from the chicken will start to melt the cheese, making it ooze deliciously over the crispy exterior. Assemble your sliders quickly to ensure the chicken stays warm and the cheese melts fully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best cooks can make mistakes. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Seasoning the Chicken: Skipping this step can result in bland chicken. Make sure to season generously.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil’s temperature, making the chicken greasy instead of crispy.
• Not Letting the Oil Heat Properly: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the breading will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
• Skipping the Paper Towel Drain: After frying, always transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, presentation matters almost as much as taste. Here’s how to make your sliders look as good as they taste.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Serve the sliders immediately after assembling, while the chicken is still warm and the cheese is melty. Pair them with sides like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
To make your sliders stand out, consider garnishing them with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. For an added touch, serve them on a wooden platter or in a basket lined with parchment paper.

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.
• Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat the chicken in an oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Extra Sauce: Keep extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
A: Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q: What can I use if I don't have buttermilk?
A: You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Q: Can I make the sliders spicier?
A: Absolutely! Add extra hot sauce to the buttermilk mixture or use a spicier cheese like pepper jack.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a delicious way to enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken with a spicy kick. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or a regular dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. With this detailed guide, you now have everything you need to create this mouthwatering dish at home. Happy cooking!

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