I still remember the first time I pulled these Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders out of the oven—they disappeared faster than I could serve them! Picture this: It's game day, friends are gathered, and the air is filled with laughter and the enticing aroma of fried chicken. These sliders bring together juicy, crispy chicken cutlets topped with melty mozzarella, all drizzled with a delightful blend of sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce.
What makes this recipe a must-try? Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, whether you're frying, air frying, or baking, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser that can transform any meal into a special occasion. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or a chill weeknight, these sliders balance flavor and texture in every bite. You can even adapt them for leftover flat chicken or try different sauces for a refreshing twist. Trust me, once you try these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, you'll be hooked!
Why are Bang Bang Chicken Sliders so popular?
Crispy Delight is the name of the game when it comes to Bang Bang Chicken Sliders! These sliders have skyrocketed in popularity for a reason: they are the ultimate crowd-pleaser combining unforgettable flavors and textures. Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy chicken cutlet, oozing melted mozzarella, all complemented by the sweet and spicy kick of the Bang Bang sauce. Ideal for game day, they can be easily made in bulk and customized to serve anyone's tastes.
With the option to use leftover flat chicken or to air fry them for a healthier twist, these sliders never lack versatility. They are what you call a game-changer in the appetizer arena—perfect for turning any gathering into a celebration! Looking for more party bites? Check out this Bang Bang Chicken Bowl for another fantastic recipe!
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Ingredients
• Get ready to make the perfect party dish!
For the Sliders
• Chicken Cutlets – Use thin-sliced chicken breasts for quicker cooking and that beloved crispy texture.
• Mozzarella Cheese – This creamy, melting cheese adds that delightful richness.
• Slider Buns – The ideal base for holding all those delicious ingredients together.
• Canola Oil, Vegetable Oil, or Avocado Oil – Choose these for frying; they have higher smoke points for optimal crispiness.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – The creamy base that adds a rich depth to the sauce.
• Sriracha – The main source of heat, adjust to elevate your spice level as desired.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Brings a sweet touch that complements the heat beautifully.
• Honey – Adds a perfect balance to the sauce’s flavors.
Optional Shortcut
• Fully Cooked Frozen Chicken Tenders – An easy, quick option if time is tight.
These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a must-try for your next gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
- Prepare the Chicken Begin by slicing thin chicken breasts into cutlets, ensuring they cook quickly and evenly. Preheat your oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. This temperature is key for achieving that crispy, golden-brown crust—hot enough to fry without greasiness. Note: Thin slices also ensure the chicken remains juicy inside while being crispy outside.
- Fry the Chicken Cutlets Carefully place the chicken cutlets into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Look for a deep golden color on the outside, which indicates a perfectly crispy exterior. Note: Cooking them in batches may be necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring each cutlet gets that delightful crisp.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sriracha, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, and 1 tablespoon honey. Whisk thoroughly until the ingredients are emulsified and smooth. This sauce adds a rich, sweet, and spicy flavor that brings everything together. Note: Adjust the sriracha to tame or boost the heat based on your preference.
- Assemble the Sliders Place each warm chicken cutlet onto slider buns and generously top with mozzarella cheese. This method uses the residual heat from the chicken to melt the cheese slightly, creating a deliciously gooey texture. Note: For an even melt, you can pop the assembled sliders in a low oven (170°F) for 5 minutes.
- Drizzle with Bang Bang Sauce Pour the homemade Bang Bang sauce over each slider, or serve it on the side as a delightful dipping option. The combination of flavors elevates these sliders, making every bite irresistible. Note: For best results, let the sauce sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors and avoid cooling the sliders.
Substitutions
Can't find a few of these ingredients? No problem! They can easily be replaced with the suggestions below:
- Chicken Cutlets: Replace it with thinly sliced turkey breast. This provides a leaner alternative with a similar cooking method.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Replace it with provolone cheese. It melts beautifully and adds a slightly bolder flavor.
- Canola Oil, Vegetable Oil, or Avocado Oil: Replace it with grapeseed oil. It also has a high smoke point, perfect for frying to crispy perfection.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Replace it with homemade honey mustard (mix equal parts honey and Dijon mustard). It gives a sweet and tangy kick!
- Sriracha: Replace it with sambal oelek. This offers a similar heat with a more robust flavor profile. Adjust to taste, starting with ¼ teaspoon.
Tips for making the most flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
- Chicken Selection: Choose thin-sliced chicken breasts for fast cooking. This not only speeds up the frying process but ensures that you get that coveted crispy exterior while keeping the juicy inside. If you're pressed for time, pre-cut chicken cutlets can be a substantial shortcut!
- Oil Temperature: Use a cooking thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right temperature before frying. Aim for about 350°F (175°C)—this is crucial! If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil and turn out greasy instead of delightfully crispy.
- Bang Bang Sauce Variations: Get creative with the Bang Bang sauce! If you’re a fan of sweet and tangy flavors, try adding a splash of rice vinegar or a dollop of hoisin sauce. For those who enjoy more heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile even more.
- Serving Suggestions: When you assemble the sliders, consider toasting the slider buns lightly in the remaining oil or on a skillet. This not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the buns from getting soggy once the saucy chicken is added.
- Make-Ahead Tips: If you're preparing for a crowd, consider making the chicken in advance. Keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until it's time to serve. This prevents them from drying out and ensures your guests get that perfect crispy experience!
- Customize for Guests: Don't hesitate to personalize your sliders! Offer an array of toppings like crunchy coleslaw or pickled jalapeños at the table. This allows each guest to create their dream slider, which is always a hit at gatherings!
Turn It Into A Party!
When it comes to entertaining, these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are your ultimate party star! Their crispy chicken, gooey mozzarella, and zesty Bang Bang sauce create a flavor explosion that’s sure to please any crowd. Perfect as finger food for game day or casual get-togethers, they’re as fun to make as they are to devour! 🎉 A few tips if serving for a crowd:
- Prepare in Batches! Cook the chicken cutlets in small batches to keep them extra crispy (don’t overcrowd the pan!). This ensures everyone enjoys that perfect crunch! 🍗
- Keep Warm in the Oven! If making ahead, place cooked sliders in a low oven (around 200°F) until it’s time to serve (this helps maintain their delicious warmth without drying out).
- Set Up a Slider Bar! Offer a variety of toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and additional sauces (like Yum Yum sauce or avocado) for a fun twist! People love making their own creations! 🌟
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
Elevate your gathering with delicious side dishes that perfectly complement the crispy and flavorful sliders.
- Crispy French Fries: These golden fries add a classic touch and provide a satisfying crunch alongside the savory sliders.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy slaw adds freshness and a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Their natural sweetness balances the spicy Bang Bang sauce, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
- Garlic Parmesan Poppers: These cheesy bites are a delicious finger food option that pairs well with the sliders' savory profile.
- Spicy Pickles: A zesty side that enhances the heat of the sauce, adding a delightful brightness to your meal.
- Potato Salad: Creamy and herbaceous, this classic adds a comforting element and pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.
- Beer or Sweet Tea: Refresh your guests with these beverages that cool the palate and offer a nice counterpoint to the spiciness.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these classic cookies provide a sweet ending to a delightful meal, keeping the comfort food vibe going.
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Fridge: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap each slider in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the crispy texture of the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.
Avoid Sogginess: If storing assembled sliders, consider keeping the sauce separate until ready to serve to prevent the buns from getting soggy.
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for thin-sliced chicken breasts. This ensures a quicker cooking time and gives you that delightful crispy texture everyone loves. The secret lies in the thickness; thinner cutlets cook evenly and remain juicy inside while achieving a golden, crunchy exterior.
How can I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
Very simply! Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezer storage—individually wrap each slider in plastic wrap and pop them into a freezer-safe bag where they'll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
Of course! Freezing is a great way to preserve your delicious sliders. Just make sure to wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap and put them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What if my chicken cutlets are not crispy?
No worries at all! If your chicken isn’t turning out crispy, check that your oil is hot enough—aim for around 350°F. If the oil is too cool, the chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy instead. Frying in batches can help maintain that perfect temperature, ensuring each cutlet gets its golden crunch.
What are some alternatives for the Bang Bang sauce?
Great question! If you're looking to switch things up, Yum Yum sauce is a fantastic substitute! Alternatively, feel free to experiment with added ingredients like a splash of rice vinegar for tanginess or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Personalizing your sauce adds a fun twist to your sliders!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! While this recipe does contain chicken and dairy, you can easily adapt it for different dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free slider buns. If you're avoiding soy, make sure to choose a brand of sriracha that fits your requirements. Always check ingredient labels if allergies are a concern!
Irresistibly Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders for Game Day
An easy and delicious recipe for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders that will impress your guests on game day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken cutlets
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 8 slider buns
- 1 cup canola oil or vegetable oil or avocado oil
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 4 cups fully cooked frozen chicken tenders (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by slicing thin chicken breasts into cutlets, ensuring they cook quickly and evenly. Preheat your oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Fry the Chicken Cutlets: Carefully place the chicken cutlets into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sriracha, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, and 1 tablespoon honey. Whisk thoroughly until emulsified and smooth.
- Assemble the Sliders: Place each warm chicken cutlet onto slider buns and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Drizzle with Bang Bang Sauce: Pour the homemade Bang Bang sauce over each slider or serve it on the side.
Notes
- Use thin-sliced chicken breasts for fast cooking.
- Ensure your oil is at about 350°F for crispy results.
- Experiment with Bang Bang sauce by adding rice vinegar or red pepper flakes.
- Toast slider buns lightly for added flavor.
- Make chicken in advance and keep warm in a low oven if serving a crowd.
- Personalize sliders with toppings like coleslaw or pickled jalapeños.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
