Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering! With crispy pan-fried chicken cutlets, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a deliciously spicy Bang Bang Sauce, they are sure to impress your guests. Ideal for parties, game days, or casual dinners, these sliders bring the heat and flavor without the fuss. The combination of textures—from crunchy breadcrumbs to melty cheese—makes each bite a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its bold flavors and crispy texture, everyone will love these sliders at your next party.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less hot sauce to the Bang Bang Sauce according to your preference.
• Versatile: Serve them as sliders, or use the chicken cutlets in wraps or salads for a different take.
• Satisfying: The combination of tender chicken and rich mozzarella makes these sliders a filling option that won’t leave anyone hungry.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows you to achieve that golden-brown crust on the chicken cutlets while ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: These are necessary for setting up your breading station and mixing ingredients easily.
• Whisk: Ideal for combining wet ingredients like buttermilk and eggs thoroughly before breading.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures that your chicken is cooked perfectly to a safe temperature of 165 degrees.

Ingredients

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the ultimate party food recipe! Lightly pan fried, crispy chicken cutlets topped with mozzarella cheese and smothered with an addicting Bang Bang Sauce!

For the Chicken Sliders

• 1 1/2 pounds thin sliced chicken breasts
• Kosher salt, Fresh black pepper and garlic powder for seasoning the chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups (or more as needed) Panko bread crumbs
• Vegetable or canola oil for frying
• 12 slices mozzarella cheese
• 12 slider rolls
• Bang Bang Sauce

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Set up a breading station:
– In one bowl, mix together flour and cornstarch.
– In another bowl, whisk buttermilk with hot sauce and egg.
– Place Panko bread crumbs in a third bowl.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each seasoned chicken breast:
1. Coat in flour mixture first; tap off excess.
2. Dip in buttermilk mixture; let excess drip off.
3. Finally, coat in Panko breadcrumbs; press down for an even coating.

Place breaded chicken on a plate as you repeat with remaining pieces.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

Heat a thin layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot:
– Add breaded chicken cutlets without overcrowding.
– Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165 degrees).
– Transfer cooked cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil while frying remaining pieces.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together your prepared Bang Bang Sauce ingredients until well combined. Set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

Cut each chicken cutlet into smaller pieces if needed. Place them onto slider buns:
– Top each piece with a slice of mozzarella cheese while still warm.
– Drizzle generously with Bang Bang Sauce before serving. Enjoy your sliders!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering or meal. They are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

Classic Slider Presentation

• Serve the sliders on a large platter, arranged neatly for a beautiful display.
• Add toothpicks to each slider for easy handling.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Pair with crunchy carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for a refreshing contrast.
• This adds color and nutrition to your meal.

Garnished with Herbs

• Top each slider with fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor and a pop of color.
• A sprinkle of sesame seeds can enhance the Asian-inspired theme.

Dipping Sauces

• Offer additional dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or extra bang bang sauce on the side.
• This allows guests to customize their sliders to their liking.

Mini Slider Bar

• Create a mini slider bar where guests can assemble their own sliders with various toppings.
• Include options like pickles, jalapeños, and lettuce for personalization.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

To make your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders even more delicious, here are some expert tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh chicken and produce. Freshness enhances flavor and texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat level of your bang bang sauce by adjusting the amount of hot sauce you use.
• Ensure Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
• Rest After Cooking: Let the fried chicken cutlets rest on paper towels after cooking. This helps remove excess oil and keeps them crispy.
• Toast Slider Buns: Lightly toast the slider buns before assembly. This prevents sogginess from the sauce and adds crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Complement your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal:

1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
   A perfect balance of sweetness and crunch that pairs well with spicy flavors.

2. Asian Slaw
   A light salad made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing that adds freshness.

3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the sliders.

4. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Charred corn brushed with lime butter brings a smoky sweetness to your plate.

5. Edamame Beans
   Lightly salted edamame offers a healthy snack option filled with protein.

6. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch that balances out the heat from the sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders even more delicious.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland sliders. Always ensure you season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for maximum flavor.
• Not pressing the breadcrumbs: If you don’t press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken, they may fall off during frying. Make sure to press them in for a good coating.
• Crowding the skillet: Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking. Fry the chicken in batches to ensure each piece gets crispy and cooked through.
• Ignoring cooking temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature may burn the exterior while leaving the interior undercooked. Use medium heat and check the internal temperature for safe cooking.
• Assembling too early: If you add cheese or sauce before the chicken cutlets have cooled slightly, it might make your slider buns soggy. Assemble only when the chicken is warm but not hot.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the Bang Bang Sauce separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

• Freeze assembled sliders in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds or until heated through. This method may soften the bread.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat and add sliders for about 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.

How can I customize my Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

You can add toppings like lettuce, tomato, or pickles for added crunch and flavor. Feel free to adjust the spice level of your Bang Bang Sauce as well!

What sides go well with Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

These sliders pair nicely with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. Choose sides that balance out their spicy flavor.

Can I use another meat instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on thickness.

Are these sliders suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer as mentioned earlier, making them perfect for quick meals.

How do I make my own Bang Bang Sauce?

Combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha in a bowl. Adjust proportions according to your taste preference!

Final Thoughts

These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are perfect for any gathering, offering a delightful combination of crispy chicken and zesty sauce. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients easily—make them spicier, add different toppings, or serve with various sides. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to be a hit!