Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Crispy juicy chicken sliders smothered with cheese and that signature Bang Bang sauce deliver a flavor punch that makes these the first thing to vanish at gatherings. They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and make any weeknight dinner feel special.

Ingredients

• Thin sliced chicken breasts: bring tenderness and ensure quick cooking
• Kosher salt and black pepper: boost flavor start to finish use fresh cracked pepper if possible
• Garlic powder: infuses savory undertone
• All-purpose flour: builds the base of a crunchy crust
• Cornstarch: lightens the breading for an extra crispy bite seek a fresh box for best effect
• Buttermilk: tenderizes and clings to spices choose real buttermilk not a substitute for best coating
• Hot sauce: infuses gentle heat opt for your favorite brand here
• Large egg: binds the breading layers
• Panko breadcrumbs: give shattering crispiness Japanese style is ideal for best crunch
• Vegetable or canola oil: ensures even golden frying select a high smoke point oil
• Mozzarella cheese: melts silkily and stretches on each bite buy whole milk mozzarella slices for fuller flavor
• Slider rolls: keep size perfect and soft get fresh and slightly sweet dinner rolls
• Bang Bang sauce: makes the magic a blend of creamy and spicy whisked separately and brought to room temperature before using

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts generously with kosher salt black pepper and garlic powder. This step sets up layers of flavor from the very start. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes so the seasoning can soak in.

Prepare the Breading Station:

Set up three wide shallow bowls. In the first mix the flour with the cornstarch. In the second whisk together buttermilk hot sauce and the egg thoroughly the mixture should look smooth and tangy. In the third place a generous pile of panko breadcrumbs.

Dredge the Chicken:

Dredge each piece of seasoned chicken in the flour mixture tapping off the excess. Dip it into the buttermilk mixture letting any extra drip off. Press it firmly into the panko breadcrumbs on both sides making sure the crumbs coat the whole piece. Arrange breaded chicken on a plate until ready to fry.

Fry the Chicken:

Pour a thin layer of oil into a large skillet and put it over medium heat. When the oil shimmers and a bit of breadcrumb sizzles right away add the chicken in a single layer. Fry each batch until deeply golden brown and cooked through flipping once. Move finished chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Work in batches to keep the crust ultra-crispy and avoid soggy breading.

Make the Bang Bang Sauce:

While the chicken cooks whisk the Bang Bang sauce in a small bowl according to your chosen recipe. Set aside to come to room temperature so it spreads easily.

Assemble the Sliders:

Cut the cooked chicken cutlets to fit the slider buns. Lay the chicken on the bottom bun add a slice of mozzarella cheese while the chicken is still hot and immediately drizzle with plenty of Bang Bang sauce. Place the top half of the bun on each slider.

Serve Hot:

Serve these sliders promptly while the chicken crisps and melted cheese are at their best. The sauce should be creamy and just warm for the perfect contrast.

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Storage Tips

Leftover fried chicken can be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them in a hot oven to keep the crust crisp. Wait to assemble sliders until right before serving for the best texture. Bang Bang sauce keeps well in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for about a week.

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts just pound thin for even cooking. Monterey Jack or provolone melt beautifully if mozzarella is not on hand. For a spicy vegetarian twist swap chicken for thick slices of fried tofu and follow the same breading process.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are perfect solo but shine alongside cool crunchy slaw pickled veggies or tangy potato salad. They make a fantastic party tray centerpiece and fit snugly into lunchboxes when cut in half. Extras can be cut up and tossed on a green salad for next day lunch.

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Cultural and Historical Context

Sliders started as mini burgers in American diners and have evolved to include everything from seafood to fried chicken. Bang Bang sauce traces its roots back to spicy sweet dipping sauces in Chinese American kitchens and became wildly popular in Southern US-style bar food for its addictive flavor.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the chicken coating crispy?

Ensure the oil is hot before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan. Press panko firmly onto the chicken for maximum crunch.

→ Can I prep these sliders ahead of time?

You can fry the chicken and keep it warm in a low oven. Assemble with cheese and sauce just before serving for best texture.

→ What is Bang Bang sauce made from?

Typically, it blends mayonnaise, hot sauce, a touch of sweetness, and spicy chili sauce for creamy heat and tang.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, try provolone or pepper jack if you prefer a different melt or an extra kick of flavor.

→ Are these sliders suitable for kids?

Reduce the spice in the sauce and breading to make them more kid-friendly. Adjust seasoning to your preference.