If you’re craving a snack that combines crispy, juicy chicken with creamy, spicy sauce all tucked inside a soft slider bun, then this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together the perfect harmony of crunchy breading, tender chicken, and that addictive bang bang sauce that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Whether it’s for a party, game day, or a fun family dinner, these sliders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that feels special but comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element, from the tender chicken breasts to the crunchy panko crumbs and that spicy touch of hot sauce in the buttermilk, plays a vital role in making your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders absolutely unforgettable.
- 1 1/2 pounds thin sliced chicken breasts: Choose thin slices or pound them yourself for quick, even cooking and tender results.
- Kosher salt, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Fresh black pepper, to taste: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and depth.
- Garlic powder, to taste: A warm, savory touch that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1/2 cup flour: Helps create a light, crispy base for the breading.
- 1/4 cup cornstarch: This makes the coating extra crunchy and golden.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and moisture, plus it tenderizes the chicken wonderfully.
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce: Gives the buttermilk a subtle kick that shines through in every bite.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the breading layers together so nothing falls off during frying.
- 2 cups Panko bread crumbs (or more as needed): For that signature crispy, airy crunch that makes these sliders so addictive.
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying: A neutral oil with a high smoke point, perfect for frying each cutlet to golden perfection.
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the hot chicken for a gooey, mild cheesy layer.
- 12 slider rolls: Soft and slightly sweet rolls that hold everything together without overpowering the flavors.
- Bang Bang Sauce (prepared separately or store-bought): The star of the show, creamy, spicy, and irresistible.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by patting your thin sliced chicken breasts dry to ensure the breading sticks perfectly. Then, generously season both sides of each piece with kosher salt, fresh black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning step is crucial for delivering that full-bodied flavor beneath the crispy coating.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Create three separate bowls to make breading easy and efficient. Combine the flour and cornstarch in one bowl for a mix that crisps up beautifully. In another, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, and egg, which will add moisture and a subtle spicy tang. Finally, fill a third bowl with the panko bread crumbs – these are your ticket to amazing crunch.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Now for the fun part! Take each chicken breast and first dredge it in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess so you don’t get clumps. Next, dip it into the buttermilk mixture, allowing the delicious tangy batter to coat the meat. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the panko crumbs, coating it thoroughly for maximum crispness. Set each breaded piece aside on a plate to prepare the next.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Cutlets
Heat a thin layer of vegetable or canola oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets in batches to avoid overcrowding, which helps them cook evenly and stay crispy. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, turning gently, until golden brown and cooked through. A perfectly fried piece should be crisp on the outside and juicy inside. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
While the chicken is still warm, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each piece so it melts slightly, adding a creamy contrast to the crunchy crust. Place each cheesy chicken cutlet onto a slider roll, drizzle generously with that wonderful Bang Bang Sauce, and then crown with the top bun. Serve these sliders fresh and enjoy the delicious combination of textures and flavors!
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe even further, consider adding crisp shredded lettuce or crunchy slaw right on top or inside the sliders. Fresh scallions or chopped cilantro sprinkled over the sauce add a bright herbal note, while a few extra dashes of hot sauce will spice things up for those who like it fiery.
Side Dishes
These sliders pair wonderfully with simple sides like crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh cucumber salad, or even classic coleslaw. The richness of the chicken and sauce balances perfectly with veggies and fries, creating a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving a crowd, consider arranging the sliders on a festive platter with small bowls of extra Bang Bang Sauce for dipping. You can also add pickled jalapeños or baby pickles alongside for an acid kick. For a fun twist, build a mini slider bar letting guests customize their own with toppings like sliced avocado, tomato, or spicy mayo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers from this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe, store the chicken cutlets and slider components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3-4 days, allowing you to enjoy them fresh without losing their crisp texture or flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken cutlets by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay good for up to 1 month. Slider rolls and cheese are best stored fresh, so add those after thawing and reheating the chicken.
Reheating
Reheat your chicken cutlets gently in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to bring back the crispy coating without drying out the meat. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make breading soggy. Once warmed through, add your mozzarella slice and sauce, then assemble the sliders for a near-fresh experience.
FAQs
Can I make the Bang Bang Sauce from scratch?
Absolutely! While store-bought sauce works great for convenience, homemade Bang Bang Sauce typically combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a touch of honey or vinegar. It’s easy to whip up and lets you control the spice level to your liking.
What can I use if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
If panko isn’t available, regular breadcrumbs can work, but the coating won’t be quite as light and crispy. For a crunchy alternative, crushed cornflakes or even finely chopped nuts can add great texture.
Is it necessary to use buttermilk in the breading mixture?
Buttermilk is ideal because its acidity tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes as a substitute.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, for a healthier option you can bake the breaded chicken cutlets at 425°F on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. The texture will be a bit different—less crispy—but still delicious.
What are some tips to avoid soggy sliders?
Keep the breading crisp by frying the chicken just before assembling sliders, and avoid adding sauce too early. If preparing ahead, store sauce separately and add it right before serving to maintain that perfect crunch in your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe inspires you to bring a little extra joy and spice into your meal routine. These sliders are the perfect mix of crispy, cheesy, and saucy—a combo that tastes like a celebration in every bite. Once you try them, I’m sure they’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes to share with friends and family!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a deliciously crispy and spicy twist on classic chicken sandwiches. Featuring thin sliced breaded chicken breasts fried to golden perfection, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, and dressed with zesty Bang Bang Sauce, these sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or casual dinners. Ready in just 20 minutes, they combine crunchy texture with creamy, spicy flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Breading
- 1 1/2 pounds thin sliced chicken breasts
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups Panko bread crumbs (or more as needed)
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
Assembly
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese
- 12 slider rolls
- Bang Bang Sauce (prepared separately or store-bought)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat the thin sliced chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with kosher salt, fresh black pepper, and garlic powder. Set aside to let the seasoning absorb while preparing the breading station.
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, combine the flour and cornstarch. In the second, whisk together the buttermilk, hot sauce, and egg until smooth. In the third bowl, pour the panko bread crumbs.
- Bread the Chicken: Take each chicken breast and first dredge it in the flour and cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the panko bread crumbs until thoroughly coated. Place each breaded piece on a plate and repeat until all are coated.
- Cook the Chicken Cutlets: Heat a thin layer of vegetable or canola oil in a skillet over medium heat until hot. Fry the breaded chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook each piece about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown, crisp, and cooked through. Add more oil if necessary. Remove cooked chicken and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Assemble the Sliders: While the chicken is still warm, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each cutlet to allow it to slightly melt. Place each cutlet on the bottom half of a slider roll. Drizzle with Bang Bang Sauce to your preference, then top with the slider bun halves. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use thin sliced chicken breasts for even cooking and crispy texture.
- If making Bang Bang Sauce from scratch, prepare it ahead of time and chill for best flavor.
- Maintain medium heat while frying to prevent burning the breadcrumbs before the chicken cooks through.
- To keep sliders warm before serving, place them on a baking sheet in a warm oven (about 200°F) for a few minutes.
- Vegetable or canola oil is preferred for frying due to neutral flavor and high smoke point.
