If you’re searching for a delightful and mouthwatering appetizer or main dish, look no further than these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders! Crispy, savory chicken tenders are enveloped in the heavenly sweetness of a Bang Bang sauce, all tucked into soft slider buns. With a glorious crispy exterior and a tender interior, they’re sure to impress everyone at your next gathering or family meal. Best of all, this recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. So, buckle up for a flavor adventure as we dive into the enchanting world of Bang Bang Chicken Sliders!
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
This Bang Bang Chicken Sliders recipe brings together so many fantastic aspects making it a must-try. Here’s why you’re going to adore this dish:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Perfect for Beginners: The steps are straightforward, perfect for someone just starting their cooking journey.
- Ideal for the Whole Family: Everyone, from kids to adults, will love the crispy chicken and delicious sauce.
- Customizable: You can personalize your sliders with a variety of toppings and sauces to suit your taste.
- Great for Entertaining: These sliders are perfect for parties, watch parties, or family gatherings. They’re easy to serve and eat!
The Necessary Ingredients
Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these tantalizing Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slider buns
- Lettuce (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:
- Chicken Tenders: These are tender, lean pieces of chicken that cook quickly. If you don’t have chicken tenders, you can use chicken breasts, just cut them into strips.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a lighter, crunchier breading compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture will be different.
- Buttermilk: This helps make the chicken tender and adds flavor. You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of regular milk and a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
How to Prepare the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe Step by Step
Here’s how to bring this delicious recipe to life! Follow these steps for crispy and flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. This process adds moisture and flavor to the chicken.
- Pro Tip: Letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour (or overnight, if possible) enhances the tenderness.
- Preheat the Oil:
- In a deep frying pan or heavy pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). The correct temperature is key to achieving that perfect golden brown crust.
- Pro Tip: Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature; too hot can burn the breading.
- Prepare the Flour Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour with salt and pepper. This seasoned flour creates the first layer of flavor on the chicken.
- Pro Tip: Use a fork to mix the flour and spices well, ensuring even seasoning.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Take each marinated chicken tender and dip it into the flour mixture, then into the buttermilk again, and then coat it thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs. This creates a delightful crunch.
- Pro Tip: Press the panko breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure a thick, even coating.
- Fry the Chicken Tenders:
- Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders into the hot oil one at a time, ensuring not to crowd the pan. Fry until golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Pro Tip: Use a slotted spoon to turn the chicken for even cooking, and cook in batches if necessary.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Stir until well combined to create a smooth, flavorful sauce that will complement the chicken perfectly.
- Pro Tip: Taste the sauce and adjust the sriracha level based on how spicy you like it!
- Assemble the Sliders:
- Place a fried chicken tender on each slider bun. Drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce and add optional toppings like lettuce and pickles for an extra crunch and freshness.
- Pro Tip: Toast the slider buns lightly to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Serve Immediately and Enjoy!
- Serve the sliders while they’re hot and crispy for the best experience. Gather your family and friends and dive into this delicious treat!
- Pro Tip: Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping!
Serving Suggestions
Making the perfect meal is not just about cooking; it’s also about presentation and pairings! Here are some creative ideas for serving your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:
Perfect Pairings
- Drinks: Pair these sliders with refreshing beverages like iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer to complement the flavors.
- Side Dishes: Serve with crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh coleslaw, or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Occasions
- Weeknight Dinner: These sliders are quick to prepare and ideal for a busy weeknight meal.
- Game Day: Perfect for feeding a crowd during the big game!
- Family Gatherings: These sliders are a hit at any family BBQ or potluck.
Serving Tips
- Make-Your-Own Station: Set up a slider bar with toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or different sauces, allowing everyone to build their own masterpiece.
- Skewers for Kids: For a fun twist, slide the chicken tenders onto skewers for an easy grab-and-go option for kids!
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), here’s how to store them properly:
Refrigerated
- Duration: Store the sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chicken might lose some crunch but it’ll still be tasty!
Freezed
- Duration: You can freeze the cooked chicken tenders for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for maximum freshness.
- Defrosting: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
- The best way to reheat is in the oven to regain crispiness. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also use an air fryer for about 5-7 minutes.
Guaranteed Success Tips
To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders turn out perfectly every time, here are some golden rules to keep in mind:
- Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if necessary. Giving the chicken enough space ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and spices make a world of difference in flavor!
- Monitor Oil Temperature: Adjust the heat as needed. If the oil is too hot, the chicken will burn; too cold, and your chicken will be greasy.
- Rest After Frying: Let the cooked chicken tenders rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb extra oil before assembling the sliders.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauces and seasonings to make sure they match your desired flavor.
Recipe Variations
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few delightful variations you can try with your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:
- For a Spicy Version: Add an additional teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the panko breadcrumbs to give your sliders a spicy kick!
- For a Vegan Version: Use plant-based chicken tenders and replace the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo alternative for a delicious and cruelty-free option.
- For a BBQ Twist: Replace Bang Bang sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile that pairs beautifully with crispy chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
A: Yes! Just slice chicken breasts into strips about the same thickness as tenders to ensure even cooking.
Q: What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
A: Regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture may be denser. If you have crackers, you can crush them as a substitute as well!
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
A: Absolutely! For a healthier option, bake the breaded chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
Q: How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
A: The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of sriracha. Start with less if you prefer a milder taste.
Q: Can I make the sliders ahead of time?
A: You can prepare and fry the chicken in advance, then assemble the sliders just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch.
Q: How do I prevent the chicken from becoming soggy?
A: Avoid adding sauce to the chicken until you’re ready to eat. Serve it on the side for dipping instead!
Q: Can I add more toppings to my sliders?
A: Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings like jalapeños, onions, avocado slices, or even coleslaw for added texture.
Now that you have all the details on making the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious sliders with your loved ones!
