Name: Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast, butterflied and pounded thin; 1 large egg; 0.25 cup water; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 cups panko bread crumbs; 1 cup avocado oil or other vegetable oil (or more as needed for frying); 0.5 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce, such as Tabasco®; 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar; 1 package Hawaiian rolls or small sourdough rolls (12 count); 24 lettuce leaves (rinsed and patted dry)

Introduction to Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Why Should You Try Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

Looking for a delightful addition to your summer BBQ or a fun weeknight dinner? Bang bang chicken sliders are the perfect crowd-pleaser! These sliders combine crispy, pan-fried chicken with a creamy, zesty sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Best of all, they’re incredibly versatile—serve them at a casual get-together, a family picnic, or simply enjoy them at home while binge-watching your favorite series.

What sets these sliders apart is their easy-to-make bang bang sauce, which balances sweet and spicy flavors, making every bite a culinary adventure. Plus, the use of healthy ingredients, like fresh lettuce from your garden, adds a refreshing crunch that complements the chicken beautifully.

Cooking enthusiasts and busy professionals alike will appreciate the straightforward preparation process. With just a little planning, you can whip up a batch of these indulgent sliders in under an hour. If you're looking to elevate your next meal, give these sliders a shot! For more inspiration and culinary ideas, check out websites like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit for tips on the perfect summer flavors.

Don't miss the chance to impress your friends and family with this irresistible dish!

Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Creating mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken Sliders starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty treats!

Chicken Ingredients

1 ½ pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast, butterflied and pounded thin
1 large egg
¼ cup water
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 cups panko bread crumbs
1 cup avocado oil (or other vegetable oil)

Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce (like Tabasco®)
1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar

Slider Assembly Ingredients

1 (12 count) package Hawaiian rolls or small sourdough rolls
24 lettuce leaves, rinsed and patted dry

Once you have these ingredients at hand, you’re all set for an unforgettable grilling experience! If you’re looking for a few substitutions or tips, don’t hesitate to check out resources like Serious Eats for further insights. Happy cooking!

Preparing Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Creating bang bang chicken sliders is a delightful way to elevate any gathering. These little beauties are not only juicy and flavorful; they also come together easily and are a hit with guests of all ages. Let’s break down the preparation process so you can impress everyone at your next barbecue or picnic!

Step 1: Gather your ingredients

Before jumping into cooking, it's essential to have everything ready to go. Gather your ingredients to avoid any last-minute dashes to the store. Here's what you'll need:

Chicken: 1.5 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken breast
Egg Wash: 1 large egg and ¼ cup of water
Breading: 1 cup all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, and a mix of spices (garlic powder, cayenne pepper, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper)
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, and rice vinegar
Buns and Lettuce: A package of Hawaiian rolls or small sourdough rolls, plus fresh lettuce leaves

This collection of ingredients ensures you end up with sliders that burst with flavor!

Step 2: Prepare the chicken for frying

When it comes to frying chicken for your sliders, preparation is key. Start by cutting your butterflied chicken breast into 12 equal pieces, ensuring each one is easy to handle. Next, set up your breading station with:

One bowl for the egg wash (egg and water mixed)
A second shallow bowl for the flour mixture (add your spices for extra flavor)
A third bowl with panko breadcrumbs

This organized setup will streamline the breading process, making it quick and efficient as you get your chicken ready for frying.

Step 3: Make the bang bang sauce

Now, here’s where the magic happens! Whip up your bang bang sauce by combining mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, and rice vinegar in a bowl. This creamy, spicy concoction will elevate your sliders from good to unforgettable. For easy application later, you might want to pour the sauce into a squirt bottle—a little tip I’ve picked up that makes serving neat and fun!

Step 4: Fry the chicken to golden perfection

Heat some oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat—this is where the chicken transforms into crispy golden goodness. Carefully add your chicken pieces, frying them for about three minutes on each side until they’re cooked through and no longer pink. An instant-read thermometer should read 165°F (74°C). The aroma that fills your kitchen is simply irresistible!

Step 5: Assemble your sliders

Now comes the moment we've been waiting for: assembling the sliders! Slice your rolls in half and lightly toast them for extra crunch. Spread that luscious bang bang sauce on the bottom, layer on a couple of lettuce leaves, and place your crispy chicken on top. Squeeze on a little more sauce before capping it off with the top half of the roll. Voila! You've just created mouthwatering bang bang chicken sliders that are sure to impress.

These sliders are not only perfect for summer gatherings but also make for an impressive dinner option any day of the week. So, gather your friends and family and enjoy this delicious treat!

Variations on Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Bang Bang Chicken with a Twist

Feeling adventurous? You can elevate your bang bang chicken sliders by swapping your regular chicken with grilled shrimp or crispy tofu. This twist keeps the essence of the bang bang sauce while offering a fresh flavor. Pair it with sliced avocado for an extra creamy texture and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that added crunch.

Vegetarian Bang Bang Sliders

For a plant-based option, try using chickpea patties or even mushroom caps as the base for your sliders. They soak up the delightful bang bang sauce beautifully, creating a satisfying bite. Serve with crunchy slaw instead of lettuce for a zesty crunch. For more vegetarian recipes, check out Minimalist Baker, which offers tons of creative ideas for veggie-forward meals!

Experimentation is key—make these sliders your own and get the whole crew involved in the fun!

Cooking tips and notes for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Ensuring the perfect fry

To achieve that delightful crunch for your bang bang chicken sliders, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. A temperature of 350°F (175°C) is ideal. Use a thermometer to check, or test with a small piece of bread—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go! Fry in small batches to maintain that perfect oil temperature and ensure even cooking.

Tips for making a crispy coating

For the crispiest coating, consider these tips:

Double coating: As per the recipe, dip the chicken in egg wash, flour, egg wash again, and then panko. This builds a fantastic texture.
Chill before frying: Letting the coated chicken rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes helps set the coating, leading to a crunchier bite.
Panko perks: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and give a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. You might even toast them slightly in the oven for extra flavor before coating!

By following these tips, you’ll have irresistibly crispy bang bang chicken sliders that everyone will love! For ideas on how to pair your sliders, consider checking out this guide on side dishes to complement your meal.

Serving suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Pairing with fresh sides

Elevate your bang bang chicken sliders with some fresh, vibrant sides! Consider serving them alongside a crisp garden salad, bursting with seasonal veggies. A light coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch, while sweet potato fries or zucchini chips offer a satisfying contrast. For a quick option, whip up a fruity salsa using diced mango, red onion, and cilantro for a tropical twist. These sides not only enhance the meal but also bring colorful variety to your plate.

Ideal occasions for sliders

Bang bang chicken sliders are perfect for a range of casual gatherings. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a watch party, or planning a fun game night with friends, these sliders are sure to impress. They also work wonderfully for picnics—just pack them up with your favorite sides, and you’re set for a delightful outdoor meal. Versatile and delicious, they fit seamlessly into any social occasion, inviting your guests to savor every bite!

Time Breakdown for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Preparation Time

For those busy weekdays or weekend get-togethers, the preparation time for these bang bang chicken sliders is around 30 minutes. This includes gathering all your ingredients and getting everything prepped so you can enjoy a smooth cooking experience.

Cooking Time

Once everything is prepped, the cooking time shouldn't take more than 15 minutes. This quick frying of the chicken ensures you’ll be biting into those sliders in no time!

Total Time

In total, you’ll be looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delightful meal without taking up your entire evening! You might just find this dish becomes a favorite for your summer barbecues. If you're eager for more fun recipes, check out AllRecipes for inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

When you're whipping up these delicious bang bang chicken sliders, it's essential to know what you're putting in your body. Here’s a quick dietary breakdown per slider to help you stay on track:

Calories

Each slider contains about 251 calories, making them a satisfying choice without going overboard.

Protein

With 10 grams of protein per slider, these tasty bites help you stay full and fueled throughout your day.

Sodium

Keep in mind that each slider carries 406 mg of sodium. While that's a reasonable amount, it's good to pair them with fresh veggies for balance.

Feel free to explore more about nutritious eating on sites like Healthline and WebMD to stay informed about your dietary choices. Enjoy your cooking!

FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The bang bang sauce can be prepared up to a week in advance. Just mix the ingredients as outlined in the recipe and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving your sliders even more kick when you serve them!

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any sliders left, no worries! Store the bang bang chicken sliders in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the chicken separately from the rolls and sauce.

Are there any substitutes for chicken?

Certainly! For a delicious twist, try using turkey cutlets or even plant-based options like chickpeas or tofu if you're aiming for a vegetarian version. They can be seasoned and fried just like the chicken, providing that satisfying crunch everyone loves! For more ideas on alternatives, check out various cooking forums or culinary blogs that focus on substitutions.

Conclusion on Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

In summary, these bang bang chicken sliders are a delightful addition to any gathering, thanks to their crispy texture and zesty sauce. Perfect for summer barbeques or casual get-togethers, they’re sure to impress your guests. Enjoy them fresh, and don’t forget to customize the toppings!