Introduction to Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
What are Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
If you’re on the hunt for a fun and flavorful meal, look no further than Bang Bang Chicken Sliders! These bite-sized delights pack a punch with crispy, fried chicken seasoned to perfection and topped with a tangy, spicy bang bang sauce. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders are sure to impress your guests or elevate your dinner routine.
The beauty of Bang Bang Chicken Sliders lies in their versatility. You can serve them at parties as appetizers, or pair them with a side salad for a satisfying main course. The crispy chicken, melty mozzarella cheese, and zesty sauce create a harmonious blend of flavors that are both comforting and exciting. Plus, the slider format makes them easy to eat, perfect for mingling or just lounging on the couch!
Excited to try this recipe? You’re in for a treat! Let’s dive right into the ingredients and steps you need to create these delicious sliders. For an extra kick, don’t forget to check out our Bang Bang Sauce recipe — it’s the secret weapon that takes these sliders to the next level!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Essential ingredients overview
Creating mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken Sliders starts with some key ingredients. For this recipe, you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts: 1.5 pounds of thin-sliced chicken provides the perfect base, delivering flavor and moisture.
- Breading Ingredients: A mix of flour, cornstarch, and Panko breadcrumbs ensures that your sliders have a crunchy coating that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.
- Seasonings: Kosher salt, fresh black pepper, and garlic powder elevate the taste, making each bite irresistible.
- Bang Bang Sauce: This is the star of the show! A homemade sauce adds a spicy and creamy twist that really sets your sliders apart.
Optional ingredients for personalization
While the essentials are delicious on their own, don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider adding:
- Cheese Variations: Swap out mozzarella for pepper jack or cheddar for an extra punch.
- Leafy Greens: Adding lettuce or spinach can balance the rich flavors with a fresh crunch.
- Custom Sauces: If you have a favorite sauce on hand, whether it’s a spicy aioli or a tangy barbecue, feel free to use that for a twist!
These optional ingredients not only personalize your sliders but also add vibrant colors and textures. What's stopping you from making your own unique masterpiece?
Preparing Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Making Bang Bang Chicken Sliders is a fun and rewarding experience that’s perfect for a casual gathering or a tasty weeknight meal. With a few key steps, you can create crispy, flavorful sliders that are sure to impress. Let’s break it down!
Season the Chicken
Start by giving your thinly sliced chicken breasts some love. Season both sides generously with kosher salt, fresh black pepper, and garlic powder. These simple seasonings really enhance the chicken's flavor and set the foundation for the tasty sliders. Don’t rush this step—let those seasoning flavors do their magic!
Create a Breading Station
Next, it’s time to set up your breading station. You’ll need three separate bowls for this process:
- Bowl 1: Combine ½ cup of flour with ¼ cup of cornstarch. This mix helps to create a crispy coating.
- Bowl 2: Whisk together 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 tablespoon of hot sauce, and 1 large egg. This mixture not only adds moisture but also packs a little heat!
- Bowl 3: Fill with 2 cups (or more, as needed) of Panko breadcrumbs, which will give your sliders that irresistible crunch.
Bread the Chicken
Dredging your chicken is where the magic happens! Working one piece at a time, start with the seasoned chicken and dip it into the flour mixture, making sure to tap off any excess. Next, dunk it into the buttermilk mixture, letting any extra liquid drip off before finally coating it with the Panko breadcrumbs. Press those breadcrumbs in to ensure a good covering. Place the breaded chicken on a plate and continue until all your chicken is prepped!
Frying the Chicken
Time to bring the heat! Pour a thin layer of vegetable or canola oil into a skillet and heat over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test this by dropping a breadcrumb in—if it sizzles, you’re ready), add the breaded chicken cutlets. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they fry evenly. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. The key here is to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees for safety. Drain the fried cutlets on a paper towel-lined plate.
Whisk Together the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is frying, whisk together the Bang Bang sauce in a separate bowl. It’s usually a delightful mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a bit of sriracha for that extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference—maybe you want to add a tad more sriracha?
Assemble the Sliders
Now comes the best part—putting it all together! Slice your golden chicken cutlets into smaller pieces if necessary and place them onto slider rolls. Top each cutlet with a slice of hot, melty mozzarella cheese, then drizzle generously with your homemade Bang Bang sauce. Voila! You’ve created irresistible Bang Bang Chicken Sliders that are sure to be a hit.
If you like even more flavor, consider adding fresh toppings such as lettuce, pickles, or coleslaw for a bit of crunch.
Now that you’re armed with this step-by-step guide, why not dive in and delight your friends and family with these fantastic sliders? They’re a guaranteed crowd pleaser!
Variations on Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
If you crave a little extra heat, try adding diced jalapeños to your bang bang sauce. The spicy notes enhance the flavor of the crispy chicken, making every bite an exhilarating experience. You can also dust the chicken with cayenne pepper before frying for a fiery kick. For those who love heat as much as flavor, this variation packs a punch that you won't soon forget!
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders with a Twist
Looking for a different spin? Consider using a flavorful herb mayo instead of the traditional bang bang sauce. Mix mayonnaise with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a refreshing, herbal twist. Alternatively, swap the mozzarella cheese for a smoky cheese like gouda to add depth to the sliding experience. These subtle changes can elevate your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders and impress your friends at your next gathering!
For a delicious homemade mayo recipe, check out this guide.
Cooking Notes for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Best Practices for Frying
For perfectly crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, work in batches when frying to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows the chicken to fry evenly. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is around 350°F for the best results. If you don’t have a thermometer, simply drop a small piece of bread into the oil – it should sizzle immediately. Remember, frying is a fine balance between crispiness and cooking the chicken through, so monitor closely.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers or want to prep ahead, store the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, pop them in a 325°F oven until warmed through; this helps maintain that delightful crunch. For the Bang Bang Sauce, bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor. Want a quick taste of deliciousness? This sauce is versatile and also pairs nicely with shrimp or veggies!
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Perfect Sides to Accompany Sliders
Pair your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders with delicious sides that elevate the meal. Some fantastic options include:
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness complements the heat of the sliders.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy side that adds a refreshing contrast to the savory sliders.
- Crispy Onion Rings: Perfect for that extra crunch and flavor.
- Fresh Vegetable Platter: Serve with a zesty dip for a lighter option.
Creative Serving Ideas
Make your slider night memorable with some fun presentation ideas:
- Slider Station: Set up a DIY slider bar with various toppings like avocado, sliced jalapeños, and extra bang bang sauce.
- Mini Boards: Arrange sliders on a wooden board with sides in small bowls for a rustic, shareable feast.
- Themed Plates: Try using colorful plates to match a theme — think tropical vibes with pineapple slices on the side!
Enhance your slider experience and enjoy a delightful evening with friends!
Time Breakdown for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Preparation Time
Getting your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders together is a breeze! All you need is about 15 minutes to season and bread your chicken.
Cooking Time
Once the prep is done, frying those delicious chicken cutlets takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on how many batches you need to cook.
Total Time
In just about 30-35 minutes, you'll have scrumptious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders ready for serving. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends! Need tips on how to make the best sliders? Check out this guide on slider preparation.
Nutritional Facts for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
When crafting delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, it’s crucial to be mindful of their nutritional content. Here’s a friendly breakdown to help you stay informed about what you're indulging in.
Calories Per Serving
Each slider comes in at approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet manageable option for lunch or dinner.
Protein Content
Packed with protein, these sliders deliver about 26 grams per serving. This boost is fantastic for fueling your busy day, whether you’re hitting the gym or tackling work projects.
Sodium Levels
While we all love a flavorful bite, the sodium content is around 800 milligrams per slider. Keeping this in check is important, especially for those watching their salt intake.
Feel free to adjust seasoning to lower sodium without sacrificing flavor. If you're looking for healthy side options to pair with these sliders, consider steamed veggies or a fresh salad. Curious about nutritional options? Check out resources like the USDA’s FoodData Central for deeper insights.
By being aware of these nutritional facts, you can enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders guilt-free!
FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
How can I make these sliders healthier?
If you're looking to lighten up your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, consider using skinless chicken breasts and oven-baking instead of frying. You can also swap out the Panko breadcrumbs for whole-grain options or crush some baked crackers for a crunch without the excess oil. For a lower-calorie sauce, mix Greek yogurt with a splash of hot sauce instead of the traditional Bang Bang Sauce, retaining that delightful kick without the added sugar.
Can I prepare sliders in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken cutlets a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in a 325°F oven until warmed through. Alternatively, you can keep them warm in the oven while guests arrive. Just be sure to whip up the bang bang sauce and let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
What are the best substitutes for ingredients?
If you find yourself missing a few items, don’t worry! You can replace buttermilk with a mix of regular milk and a splash of vinegar, letting it sit for a few minutes. For those with dietary restrictions, try using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs or substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese.
By being flexible with ingredients, you can still enjoy delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders tailored to your dietary needs! Need some more tips? Check out our guide to slider variations.
Conclusion on Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
In summary, Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are an enjoyable and delicious option for any gathering or weeknight dinner. With crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and that irresistible bang bang sauce, these sliders are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to share this favorite recipe with friends and elevate your meal game!
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- paper towels
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1.5 pounds thin sliced chicken breasts
- Kosher salt for seasoning
- Fresh black pepper for seasoning
- garlic powder for seasoning
- 0.5 cup flour
- 0.25 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
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese
- 12 pieces slider rolls
- Bang Bang Sauce see recipe link
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken on both sides with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Set up a breading station with the flour and cornstarch mixed in one bowl, the buttermilk, hot sauce and egg in another bowl, and the bread crumbs in a third bowl.
- Dredge the seasoned chicken into the flour mixture first, then into the buttermilk mixture, and finally into the bread crumbs. Press the breadcrumbs into the chicken for a nice coating. Place breaded chicken on a plate and repeat with remaining chicken.
- Heat a thin layer of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees. Place on paper towel lined plate.
- Whisk the bang bang sauce in a small bowl and set aside.
- Assemble the sliders by cutting the cutlets into smaller pieces and placing them on slider buns. Top with a slice of mozzarella cheese and drizzle with bang bang sauce before serving.
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