Introduction
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines bold flavors with a touch of sophistication, look no further than Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. This recipe offers a tantalizing blend of crispy chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh toppings, all served on mini buns. Perfect for parties, game days, or a casual family dinner, these sliders are sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into how to create this delectable dish.
What Are Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a fun twist on the popular Bang Bang Chicken dish. Originating from the American-Chinese fusion cuisine, Bang Bang Chicken features crispy chicken pieces coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. When transformed into sliders, the result is a bite-sized, easy-to-eat treat that packs all the flavor of the original dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
For Assembly:
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sliced pickles
- Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken:
- Preheat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Breading: In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat Chicken: Dip chicken pieces in buttermilk, then dredge them in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Fry Chicken: Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth.
- Adjust Spice Level: Taste the sauce and adjust the level of sriracha according to your preference.
Assembling the Sliders:
- Toast Buns (Optional): Lightly toast the slider buns if desired.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread a generous amount of Bang Bang Sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a few pieces of crispy chicken.
- Add Toppings: Add shredded lettuce, pickles, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if using.
- Close and Serve: Place the top half of the bun on the chicken and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect Sliders
- Chicken Texture: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid greasy chicken. If the oil is too cool, the breading will absorb more oil.
- Sauce Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the Bang Bang Sauce by adding more or less honey or rice vinegar, depending on your preference.
- Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings based on your taste. Thinly sliced red onions or tomatoes can add a fresh crunch.
Why You’ll Love These Sliders
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They can be made ahead of time and reheated, making them a great option for meal prep or parties. The combination of crispy chicken and spicy, creamy sauce will leave your guests craving more. Plus, the mini size of the sliders makes them perfect for snacking or serving as part of a larger spread.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the ultimate blend of flavor and convenience. With a crispy chicken coating, creamy and spicy sauce, and fresh toppings, these sliders are sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a casual meal, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Try making these sliders today and enjoy a deliciously satisfying treat!
Serving and Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Serving Tips
- Warm and Fresh: Serve the sliders warm for the best texture and flavor. You can keep them warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting if you’re serving a large crowd.
- Garnish: Add a touch of freshness with garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a squeeze of lime juice. These add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
- Accompaniments: Pair the sliders with sides like crispy sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a light cucumber salad to balance the richness of the Bang Bang sauce.
- Presentation: Arrange the sliders on a platter or serving tray. You can use decorative toothpicks to hold them together and make them easier to pick up.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Offer extra Bang Bang sauce on the side so guests can adjust the spice level to their preference. This way, everyone can enjoy the sliders just the way they like them.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: If you have leftover sliders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- Separate Components: For best results, store the sliders and sauce separately. This prevents the buns from becoming soggy. Keep the crispy chicken and sauce in separate containers and assemble the sliders just before serving.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken pieces for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness. Reassemble the sliders when ready to serve.
- Reheating: To reheat sliders, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make the buns soggy.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When reheating, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. This ensures that the sliders heat evenly and retain their crispiness.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders at their best, whether you’re serving them fresh or enjoying leftovers.
1. Can I make the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare some components ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and make the Bang Bang sauce in advance. Store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble the sliders just before serving to keep the buns fresh and the chicken crispy.
2. Can I substitute ingredients in the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize the recipe to fit your dietary preferences. For example, you can use gluten-free flour and cornstarch if you need a gluten-free option. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the sauce for a lighter version or adjust the level of sriracha to control the spiciness.
3. How can I make the sliders spicier or milder?
To adjust the spiciness of the sliders, modify the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. For a spicier kick, add more sriracha or a dash of hot sauce. To make it milder, reduce the sriracha or omit it entirely and use a milder chili sauce.
4. What should I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with crispy sweet potato fries, a refreshing coleslaw, or a light salad. For a more substantial meal, you might also serve them with roasted vegetables or a creamy mac and cheese.