Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: Sweet, Spicy & Simple Recipe!

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe invites you to embark on a culinary adventure that promises an explosion of flavors in every delightful bite. Imagine tender, crispy chicken coated in that iconic, creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce, nestled between soft slider buns with a fresh, crunchy slaw. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes designed to captivate your palate and leave a lasting impression on anyone who tries them.

Originating from Szechuan cuisine as ‘Bang Bang Ji’ or ‘Bon Bon Chicken,’ traditionally a cold dish known for its intense, layered flavors and the unique ‘bang bang’ sound made while tenderizing the chicken, this modern adaptation takes that beloved profile and transforms it into an irresistible, handheld format. We are thrilled to share how you can bring this globally adored sensation, famous for its perfect blend of heat and sweetness, to your own kitchen with surprising ease.

Why Everyone Loves Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:

This innovative twist, the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe, is not only incredibly convenient for entertaining but also offers an unforgettable taste experience. People adore this dish for its perfect balance of vibrant flavors, the satisfying crunch of the chicken and slaw, and the sheer fun of a perfectly portioned meal. It’s ideal for game nights, casual gatherings, or simply elevating your weeknight dinner with a burst of exciting, crave-worthy flavors that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients:

Before we dive into creating these incredibly flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe, let’s gather all our components. Each part plays a crucial role in building layers of texture and taste that you’ll absolutely adore. I always find that having everything prepped and measured out makes the cooking process so much more enjoyable and efficient.

For the Crispy Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced horizontally into ½-inch thick cutlets
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (60g) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ¼ cup (60ml) milk (any kind works, I usually use whole milk)
• 3 cups (720ml) neutral oil for frying (such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

For the Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup (120g) mayonnaise (full-fat is best for richness)
• ¼ cup (60ml) sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) Sriracha, or more to taste if you like extra heat
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar (unseasoned)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for that touch of sweetness to balance the spice)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds a wonderful nutty depth)
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for an extra kick)

For the Crunchy Slaw:

• 2 cups (about 180g) shredded cabbage (I often use a pre-packaged coleslaw mix for convenience, which includes some carrots)
• ½ cup (75g) shredded carrots (if not included in your mix)
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Assembly and Garnish:

• 12 slider buns (brioche buns are my personal favorite for their richness and slight sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for toasting buns)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving, if desired)

Now that we have all our ingredients meticulously laid out, let’s get into the heart of creating this fantastic Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. I promise, the effort is well worth the incredible flavors you’re about to experience!

Instructions:

This recipe involves a few different components, but don’t be intimidated! I’ve broken it down into manageable sections so you can tackle each part with ease, leading you to a truly spectacular dish. The key to success here is preparation and patience, especially when frying the chicken to golden perfection. Let’s make some delicious food!

1. Preparing the Crispy Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken: First things first, I take my chicken breasts or thighs and slice them horizontally into uniform ½-inch thick cutlets. Aim for pieces that are roughly the size of your slider buns, or slightly smaller, so they fit nicely. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a truly crispy coating, as excess moisture can lead to a soggy crust. I can’t emphasize enough how important that pat-drying is!
2. Set Up the Dredging Stations: Next, I set up my dredging stations. In a shallow dish or bowl, I combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. I give it a good whisk to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. In a separate shallow dish, I whisk together the two large eggs and milk until well combined. These two stations are what will give our chicken that fantastic, flavorful, and super crispy crust.
3. Dredge the Chicken: Now for the fun part! I take each chicken cutlet, one at a time, and first dredge it thoroughly in the flour mixture, making sure it’s completely coated. I gently shake off any excess flour. Then, I dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any extra egg to drip off. Finally, I return the chicken to the flour mixture for a second coating. This double-dredging technique is my secret to an extra-crispy, substantial crust that truly holds up to the sauce. As I finish dredging each piece, I lay it on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows the coating to set slightly and prevents it from getting soggy on the bottom while I prepare the others.
4. Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or a Dutch oven, I pour in about 3 cups of neutral oil. I make sure there’s enough oil so that the chicken pieces will be mostly submerged when frying. I heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Using a kitchen thermometer here is non-negotiable for consistent results. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and be greasy; if it’s too hot, the coating will burn before the chicken cooks through.
5. Fry the Chicken: Once the oil is at the correct temperature, I carefully add a few chicken cutlets to the pot, being careful not to overcrowd it. Overcrowding will drop the oil temperature too much and lead to less crispy results. I fry the chicken for about 4-6 minutes per side, or until it’s a beautiful golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). I use tongs to carefully flip the chicken halfway through cooking.
6. Drain and Season: As each batch of chicken finishes frying, I transfer it to a clean wire rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil. While they are still hot, I lightly sprinkle them with a pinch more salt. This enhances the flavor and ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned. I continue frying the remaining chicken in batches until all pieces are done.

2. Making the Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce:

This sauce is truly the star of our Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. It’s creamy, spicy, and perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness. It’s also incredibly easy to make!

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, I combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha (adjust to your preferred level of heat – I love a good kick!), rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and sesame oil. If I’m feeling extra bold, I’ll add a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes for visual appeal and an additional layer of heat.
2. Whisk Until Smooth: I whisk all the ingredients together vigorously until the sauce is completely smooth and well combined. The goal here is a uniform, creamy consistency with no streaks of individual ingredients. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if needed. Do you want it spicier? Add more Sriracha. A little sweeter? A touch more honey. More tang? A tiny splash of vinegar. This is your chance to customize it to your palate!
3. Set Aside: Once perfected, I set the Bang Bang sauce aside. It can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, which is fantastic for meal prepping.

3. Preparing the Crunchy Slaw:

A fresh, crisp slaw is essential for providing a bright contrast and lovely crunch to the rich fried chicken and creamy sauce in our Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. It really elevates the entire experience.

1. Combine Slaw Ingredients: In another medium bowl, I combine the shredded cabbage and carrots. If I’m using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix, I simply dump it in.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small separate bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar until smooth. I then season it with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Dress the Slaw: I pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots and toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
4. Chill: I like to cover the bowl and place the slaw in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften ever so slightly, creating a more cohesive and refreshing slaw. Don’t skip this chilling step if you have the time!

4. Assembling the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:

Now for the grand finale – bringing all these amazing components together to create the ultimate Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe! This is where all your hard work pays off.

1. Toast the Buns: I preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. I melt the butter and brush the cut sides of the slider buns with it. Then, I place the buns cut-side down on the hot skillet and toast them for 1-2 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and fragrant. Toasting the buns is a non-negotiable step for me; it adds a crucial textural element and prevents the buns from becoming soggy under the sauce and chicken. Plus, that buttery aroma is just heavenly!
2. Sauce the Buns: Once toasted, I spread a generous amount of the Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each slider bun. Don’t be shy here; this is where a lot of that signature flavor comes from!
3. Add the Chicken: On top of the sauced bottom bun, I place one crispy fried chicken cutlet. If your chicken pieces are a bit large, you can cut them in half to fit perfectly on the slider bun.
4. Layer with Slaw: Next, I add a small mound of the chilled crunchy slaw over the chicken. The coolness and acidity of the slaw cut through the richness of the chicken and sauce beautifully.
5. More Sauce (Optional, but Recommended!): I like to drizzle a little more Bang Bang sauce directly onto the slaw for an extra burst of flavor. It really ties everything together.
6. Garnish and Serve: Finally, I place the top half of the slider bun on top. Before serving, I often sprinkle the tops with a pinch of fresh chopped cilantro and sesame seeds for both visual appeal and an additional layer of flavor and texture. For an extra touch of brightness, I like to serve these with lime wedges on the side, allowing guests to squeeze a little fresh lime juice over their sliders if they desire. Serve immediately and watch them disappear! These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe are truly a crowd-pleaser and perfect for parties, game nights, or just a fun family meal. Enjoy every glorious bite!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve reached the end of our culinary journey for today, but the true adventure is just beginning in your own kitchen. I genuinely hope that reading through this recipe has sparked your excitement and ignited a craving for something truly spectacular. This isn’t just another slider recipe; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures, meticulously crafted to deliver a memorable experience with every single bite. The incredible balance of sweet, spicy, tangy, and creamy elements, coupled with the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked chicken and the soft embrace of a fluffy bun, makes this dish an absolute standout. It’s the kind of recipe that makes people ask for more, the one they’ll talk about long after the last slider has disappeared. I promise you, the homemade Bang Bang sauce alone is worth the effort, transforming simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary and miles better than anything you could buy pre-made. It’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare, yet it yields a dish that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen. This recipe proves that you don’t need to spend hours slaving over a hot stove to create something truly impressive and utterly delicious for your family and friends. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a lively party appetizer, or even an elevated game day spread.

Creative Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Sliders:

Now, while these sliders are undoubtedly fantastic on their own, don’t shy away from exploring some exciting serving suggestions and variations to truly make them your own. For a classic pairing that complements the richness of the chicken, I highly recommend serving them alongside a crisp, refreshing Asian-inspired slaw. Think thinly sliced cabbage, shredded carrots, and a light sesame-ginger dressing – the cool crunch provides a wonderful textural contrast. Another fantastic option is a side of crispy sweet potato fries, their inherent sweetness harmonizing beautifully with the spicy chicken. If you’re looking to keep things a bit lighter, a simple cucumber salad with a rice vinegar dressing can cut through the richness wonderfully. For entertaining, consider setting up a “build-your-own slider” bar! Lay out the toasted buns, the succulent Bang Bang chicken, and an assortment of fresh toppings like extra cilantro, finely chopped peanuts, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, and even some quick-pickled red onions for an added zesty tang. This not only makes for a fun and interactive dining experience but also allows everyone to customize their perfect slider.

Unleash Your Inner Chef with These Variations:

Feeling adventurous? The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. While the chicken is king here, you could certainly experiment with other proteins. Imagine the Bang Bang sauce coating crispy shrimp or even pan-fried tofu cubes for a vegetarian-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. For those who love a bit of extra heat, a dash more chili garlic sauce or sriracha in your Bang Bang sauce can take things up a notch. On the flip side, if you’re serving little ones or those sensitive to spice, you can easily dial down the heat by reducing the chili component. Don’t be afraid to play with your bun choice either! While Hawaiian rolls are a personal favorite for their sweetness and soft texture, brioche buns offer a richer alternative, or you could even opt for mini whole wheat buns for a slightly healthier twist. For a truly low-carb or gluten-free alternative, serving the Bang Bang chicken in crisp lettuce cups is an absolute winner. Adding a slice of creamy avocado to your slider can introduce another layer of texture and richness, while a sprinkle of fresh lime zest over the finished sliders can brighten the entire dish. You could even transform this into a full meal by serving the Bang Bang chicken over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or tossing it with some cooked noodles for a hearty Bang Bang Chicken Noodle Bowl.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to roll up your sleeves and bring this culinary masterpiece to life! I truly hope you give this

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

a try in your own kitchen very soon. I promise you, the smiles and satisfied “Mmmms” from your eaters will be all the reward you need. Don’t just make dinner; create an experience. And when you do, I would absolutely love to hear all about it! Did you try any of the variations? What were your favorite toppings? Did it become an instant family favorite? Please, share your culinary triumphs and tag me in your photos on social media. Your feedback and experiences inspire me and the entire community of home cooks. Happy cooking, and get ready to fall in love with these irresistible sliders!

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

These tasty sliders feature crispy fried chicken cutlets topped with mozzarella and spicy bang bang sauce on mini buns. Great for entertaining and can be prepared ahead.

Prep Time
35 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
1 Hours

Servings
12 sliders

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into ½-inch cutlets
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 eggs, beaten
• ¼ cup milk
• 3 cups neutral oil for frying
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tbsp Sriracha (or more)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
• ½ cup shredded carrots (if not in mix)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 12 slider buns
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Sesame seeds
• Lime wedges (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Slice chicken into ½-inch thick cutlets; pat dry. In one dish, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika. In another, whisk eggs and milk. Double-dredge chicken: flour, then egg, then flour again. Place on wire rack.
2. Step 2
   Heat 3 cups oil to 350°F (175°C) in a pot. Fry chicken in batches for 4-6 mins per side until golden and cooked (165°F/74°C). Drain on rack; lightly season with salt.
3. Step 3
   Whisk mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes in a bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust.
4. Step 4
   Combine shredded cabbage and carrots. In a separate bowl, whisk 2 tbsp mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over vegetables and toss. Chill for 15-30 minutes.
5. Step 5
   Brush slider buns with melted butter and toast cut-side down in a skillet until golden. Spread Bang Bang sauce on bottom buns, top with a crispy chicken cutlet, then slaw. Drizzle more Bang Bang sauce (optional). Place top buns. Garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve immediately, with lime wedges if desired.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.