Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a delightful twist on traditional sliders, combining crispy fried chicken with a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce. This sauce, typically made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, brings a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and heat, making it a favorite in various dishes. Originating from Asian cuisine, Bang Bang sauce has gained widespread popularity for its versatile and addictive flavor. These sliders are perfect for parties, casual dinners, or anytime you crave something flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Chicken breasts (2, boneless and skinless)
• Buttermilk (1 cup, for marinating)
• Flour (1 cup, for coating)
• Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup, for extra crunch)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
• Paprika (1 teaspoon, for added flavor)
• Oil (for frying, vegetable or canola)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• Mayonnaise (½ cup, creamy base)
• Sweet chili sauce (¼ cup, adds sweetness)
• Sriracha (2 tablespoons, for heat)
• Honey (1 tablespoon, balances the flavors)
• Lime juice (1 tablespoon, adds tanginess)

For the Sliders

• Slider buns (8, small and soft)
• Lettuce (4 leaves, for freshness)
• Pickles (optional, for extra tang)
• Cilantro (2 tablespoons, chopped, for garnish)

Special Ingredients and Substitutions

• Buttermilk: Can be substituted with a mixture of milk and lemon juice or vinegar.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Provides extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Honey: Agave nectar or maple syrup can be used as alternatives for sweetness.
• Sriracha: Any hot sauce can work, adjust quantity to manage heat levels.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

1. Preparation:
   • Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into small, slider-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes the sliders easy to assemble and eat.
2. Creating the Marinade:
   • In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and infuses it with flavor.
3. Marinating Process:
   • Submerge the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken deeply, making it juicier and more flavorful.
4. Tips for Best Marination Practices:
   • Ensure the chicken pieces are of uniform size for even marination and cooking.
   • Marinating overnight is ideal for maximum flavor absorption.
   • If you’re short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes will still enhance the flavor significantly.

Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, mix ½ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons of sriracha, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of lime juice.
2. Adjusting the Flavor:
   • Taste the sauce and adjust the sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness as needed.
3. Storage:
   • Cover and refrigerate the sauce until ready to use. This helps the flavors meld together.

Frying the Chicken

1. Coating the Chicken:
   • In a shallow dish, mix 1 cup of flour, 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
   • Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting excess marinade drip off, and coat each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
2. Heating the Oil:
   • In a large skillet, heat vegetable or canola oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to submerge the chicken pieces halfway.
3. Frying Process:
   • Fry the chicken in batches, avoiding overcrowding the skillet, for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
   • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
4. Tips for Perfect Crispiness:
   • Maintain a consistent oil temperature to ensure even cooking.
   • Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.

Assembling the Sliders

1. Preparing the Buns:
   • Lightly toast the slider buns in a dry skillet or oven to add texture and prevent sogginess.
2. Layering Ingredients:
   • Spread a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce on the bottom bun.
   • Place a piece of fried chicken on top, followed by lettuce, pickles (if using), and cilantro.
3. Finishing Touch:
   • Add a final drizzle of Bang Bang sauce on top of the chicken.
   • Place the top bun and secure with a toothpick if necessary.
4. Serving:
   • Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and crispy. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders!

Tips and Variations

Healthier Options

Baked Version of the Chicken:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Follow the marinating and coating steps as usual.
• Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Lightly spray with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Grilled Chicken Variation:

• Marinate the chicken as instructed.
• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Grill the chicken pieces for about 4-5 minutes per side, until fully cooked and slightly charred.

Customizing the Heat

Adjusting Sriracha Levels:

• For a milder sauce, reduce the amount of sriracha to 1 tablespoon.
• For extra heat, increase sriracha to 3 tablespoons or more.

Alternative Spicy Ingredients:

• Use hot sauce varieties like Tabasco, Frank’s RedHot, or your favorite brand.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Substitute sriracha with harissa paste for a different flavor profile with similar heat.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Substituting Chicken with Tofu or Cauliflower:

• Use firm tofu, pressed and cut into slabs, or cauliflower florets.
• Marinate and coat as you would the chicken.
• Bake or fry the tofu or cauliflower until crispy.

Vegan Sauce Alternative:

• Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo.
• Ensure the sweet chili sauce is vegan-friendly.
• Follow the same mixing instructions for a delicious vegan Bang Bang sauce.

Creative Twists

Adding Dijon Mustard to the Sauce:

• Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard to the Bang Bang sauce for a tangy twist that complements the heat and sweetness.

Using Different Toppings:

• Avocado slices: Add creaminess and a subtle flavor that pairs well with the spicy chicken.
• Coleslaw: Prepare a simple slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette or mayo-based dressing for added crunch and freshness.

Nutritional Information

Breakdown per Slider

• Calories: Approximately 300-350
• Protein: 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams
• Fats: 15-20 grams

These values can vary based on ingredient quantities and specific brands used. Opting for healthier preparations like baking or grilling can reduce fat content.

Health Benefits of Certain Ingredients

• Chicken: High in protein, which aids in muscle building and repair.
• Buttermilk: Contains probiotics that support gut health.
• Cilantro: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, K, and C.
• Honey: Provides natural sweetness and has antibacterial properties.
• Lime Juice: High in vitamin C, boosting the immune system.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Occasions for Serving Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are perfect for various occasions:

• Game Day Parties: These sliders are great finger foods that guests can easily enjoy while watching the game.
• Family Gatherings: They make a delicious addition to family meals or casual get-togethers.
• Picnics and BBQs: Their compact size and bold flavors make them ideal for outdoor events.
• Casual Dinners: Quick to prepare and satisfying, perfect for a fun and easy dinner.

Pairing Ideas with Sides and Beverages

Sides:

• Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness complements the spicy Bang Bang sauce.
• Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the heat of the sliders.
• Pickle Chips: Their tanginess pairs well with the savory and spicy flavors.
• Salad: A light, crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette can be a great side.

Beverages:

• Craft Beer: A light lager or pale ale enhances the flavors without overwhelming them.
• Iced Tea: Refreshing and neutral, it pairs well with the spicy sliders.
• Lemonade: The tangy sweetness balances the heat.
• Chilled White Wine: A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well with the flavors.

FAQs

What is Bang Bang Sauce?

Bang Bang Sauce is a creamy, spicy condiment typically made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. This combination creates a perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and heat, making it a popular choice for various dishes, especially in Asian-inspired cuisine.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders ahead of time. Prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and assemble the sliders just before serving to ensure they stay fresh and crispy.

What’s the best way to reheat the sliders?

To reheat the sliders, place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.

How can I make the recipe gluten-free?

To make the recipe gluten-free:

• Use gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs for coating the chicken.
• Ensure that the sweet chili sauce and other condiments used in the Bang Bang sauce are gluten-free.
• Substitute regular slider buns with gluten-free buns.

What are some good side dishes to serve with these sliders?

Side Dishes:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the spicy Bang Bang sauce.
2. Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and helps balance the heat.
3. Pickle Chips: Provide a tangy contrast to the savory sliders.
4. Garden Salad: A light, crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette pairs well.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, it adds a sweet and savory element.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders offer a delightful fusion of crispy fried chicken and a flavorful, spicy Bang Bang sauce. Their versatility makes them perfect for various occasions, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. With options to customize the recipe to be healthier or cater to dietary preferences, these sliders are a crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe for a delicious and exciting twist on traditional sliders. We encourage you to make these at home, enjoy them with friends and family, and share your feedback to inspire others!

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