Name: Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Prep time: 50 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 12-16 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken (thighs or breasts), cut into 1-1.5 inch pieces; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tbsp hot sauce; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch or potato starch; 2 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup water or milk; 4-6 cups vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, for deep frying; 1 cup mayonnaise (Kewpie recommended); 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce; 2-4 tbsp Sriracha or gochujang; 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder); 1 tsp fresh lime juice (optional); 12-16 slider buns (brioche or potato); 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1 head iceberg or romaine lettuce, finely shredded; Dill or bread and butter pickle slices (optional); 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are not just a meal; they’re an experience! Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, crispy chicken coated in that iconic sweet, spicy, and creamy Bang Bang sauce, all nestled within a soft slider bun. It’s a flavor explosion that promises to captivate your taste buds from the very first bite and leave you craving more.

The original Bang Bang Chicken, or Bang Bang Ji, hails from the Sichuan province of China, traditionally featuring cold, shredded chicken “pounded” (hence the “bang bang”) and drenched in a fiery, nutty sauce. While our slider version takes a delicious detour from the classic preparation, it passionately embraces those vibrant, unforgettable flavors that have made the dish a beloved staple worldwide. We’re taking that incredible legacy and transforming it into a wonderfully convenient, utterly craveable handheld delight.

Why People Adore These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Beyond the captivating history, it’s the masterful blend of textures and tastes that truly makes this dish shine. You get the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried chicken, the silky embrace of the sauce, and the delightful chew of a fresh bun, often complemented by a crisp, refreshing slaw. These sliders are a testament to culinary innovation, offering a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami that makes them an irresistible appetizer, party snack, or even a fun weeknight dinner. They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, easy to serve and even easier to devour!

Ingredients:

For the Crispy Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, trimmed and cut into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces. I personally love using chicken thighs for these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders because they stay incredibly juicy and flavorful, even after frying!
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch or potato starch (this is my secret for extra crispiness!)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup water or milk (for the egg wash)
- 4-6 cups vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, for deep frying (enough to submerge the chicken pieces)
For the Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 cup good quality mayonnaise (Kewpie mayo works wonderfully for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2-4 tablespoons Sriracha or gochujang, depending on how much heat you desire for your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced very finely (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice (optional, but adds a lovely brightness)
For the Slider Assembly and Garnish:
- 12-16 slider buns (brioche or potato buns are excellent choices for their soft texture and slight sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for toasting buns)
- 1 head iceberg or romaine lettuce, finely shredded
- Dill pickle slices or bread and butter pickle slices (optional, but adds a fantastic tangy crunch)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Preparing the Crispy Chicken

Making truly crispy fried chicken is an art, but don’t worry, I’ll walk you through every step to ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders have the perfect crunch!

Prepare the Chicken for Marination: Begin by taking your boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts and carefully trimming away any excess fat or gristle. Once trimmed, cut the chicken into uniform 1 to 1.5-inch bite-sized pieces. Uniformity is key here, as it ensures all your chicken cooks evenly at the same rate, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others are overcooked and dry.
Marinate for Tenderness and Flavor: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the buttermilk and the 1 tablespoon of hot sauce. The acidity in the buttermilk works wonders to tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy, while the hot sauce adds a subtle background flavor and helps to “activate” the chicken for better seasoning absorption. Add your cut chicken pieces to this mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For even more tender and flavorful chicken, you can marinate it for up to 4 hours, or even overnight if you’re planning ahead. This step is crucial for the overall texture of your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.
Set Up Your Breading Stations: While the chicken is marinating, prepare your breading stations. In a large, shallow dish or pie plate, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. This is your dry breading mixture. In another shallow dish, whisk together the two large eggs with the 1/4 cup of water or milk. This is your wet egg wash. Having these stations ready will make the breading process smooth and efficient.
The Double-Dredge Breading Technique: Once your chicken has marinated sufficiently, remove it from the refrigerator. Working with a few pieces at a time, lift the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off briefly. First, place the chicken into the dry flour mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated. Press the flour mixture onto the chicken firmly with your fingers to help it adhere well. Next, transfer the flour-coated chicken to the egg wash, letting any excess drip away. Finally, return the chicken to the dry flour mixture for a second coating. Again, press the flour firmly onto the chicken. This double-dredging technique creates a thicker, more textured crust that becomes wonderfully crispy when fried, which is exactly what we want for our Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. Place the breaded chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet while you bread the remaining chicken. This allows the breading to set slightly and prevents a soggy bottom.
Heat the Frying Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, pour in enough vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil to reach a depth of about 3-4 inches. Place the pot over medium-high heat. Attach a deep-fry thermometer to the side of the pot, ensuring it’s not touching the bottom. Heat the oil until it reaches a temperature of 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a tiny pinch of flour into it. If it sizzles vigorously and floats to the top immediately, the oil is ready. Be patient and allow the oil to come to temperature gradually.
Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection: Carefully lower the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, one at a time, using tongs. Do not overcrowd the pot; fry the chicken in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking. Overcrowding can drop the oil temperature too much, leading to greasy chicken. Fry for about 4-6 minutes per batch, turning occasionally, until the chicken is a beautiful golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The time will vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
Drain and Season Immediately: As each batch of chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Transfer the crispy chicken to a clean wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with paper towels. This setup allows excess oil to drain away, keeping your chicken gloriously crisp. While the chicken is still hot, immediately sprinkle it with a little extra salt, if desired. This quick seasoning right out of the fryer really locks in the flavor and is a pro tip for truly delicious Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. Repeat the frying process with the remaining chicken, ensuring the oil temperature returns to the desired range between batches.

Crafting the Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce

The Bang Bang Sauce is truly the star of these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, bringing together all the sweet, spicy, and tangy notes that make this dish so addictive. It’s incredibly easy to make!

Gather Your Sauce Ingredients: Pull out all the ingredients for your Bang Bang Sauce: mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha (or gochujang), honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and the optional lime juice. Having everything measured and ready will make the mixing process a breeze.
Combine and Whisk Until Smooth: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha (start with 2 tablespoons and add more later if you prefer extra heat), honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, and the finely minced garlic. Take a whisk and vigorously mix all the ingredients together until the sauce is completely smooth and uniform in color. Ensure there are no lumps of mayonnaise or unmixed spices.
Taste and Adjust to Your Liking: Now comes the best part – tasting! Dip a spoon into your freshly made sauce and give it a try. This is your chance to customize it perfectly for your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. Do you want it spicier? Add another tablespoon of Sriracha. Prefer it a bit sweeter? Drizzle in a touch more honey. Need more tang? A splash more rice vinegar or lime juice will do the trick. The balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy is what makes this sauce so magical, so don’t be shy about adjusting it until it’s just right for your palate. The consistency should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still pourable.
Chill for Enhanced Flavors: Once you’re happy with the flavor, cover the bowl and place the Bang Bang Sauce in the refrigerator. Allowing it to chill for at least 30 minutes, or even longer, lets the flavors meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious sauce for your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. It will also thicken slightly as it chills, which is perfect for coating your crispy chicken.

Assembling Your Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

With your crispy chicken fried to perfection and your delectable Bang Bang Sauce ready, it’s time to bring everything together for these mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. The assembly is quick and fun!

Prepare and Toast the Slider Buns: Take your slider buns and carefully slice them in half horizontally. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. You can toast the buns in a few ways: either spread a thin layer of melted butter on the cut sides and toast them lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until golden, or arrange them cut-side up on a baking sheet and toast them under a broiler for about 1 minute (watch them closely to prevent burning!). Toasting the buns adds a delightful texture and prevents them from getting soggy when they meet the sauce-coated chicken.
Prepare Your Toppings: While the buns are toasting or chilling, ensure your shredded lettuce is ready. If you’re using pickles, have them sliced and ready. Have your chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds nearby for the final garnish.
Generously Coat the Crispy Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, place your still-warm or room-temperature crispy fried chicken pieces. Pour a generous amount of your chilled Bang Bang Sauce over the chicken. Using tongs or a spoon, gently toss the chicken pieces until they are thoroughly coated in the sauce. Every piece should be shimmering with that irresistible sauce! You want enough sauce to flavor the chicken well, but not so much that it makes the breading overly soggy.
Assemble Your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders: Now for the fun part! Lay out the toasted bottom halves of your slider buns. On each bottom bun, place a small mound of finely shredded lettuce. This provides a cool, crisp base. Next, carefully place one or two pieces of the sauced Bang Bang Chicken on top of the lettuce. If you’re adding pickles, now is the time to add a slice or two on top of the chicken. For an extra punch of flavor, you can drizzle a tiny bit more Bang Bang Sauce directly onto the chicken or pickles. Finally, place the toasted top half of the slider bun onto your masterpiece.
Garnish and Serve Immediately: Arrange your freshly assembled Bang Bang Chicken Sliders on a serving platter. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds for both visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor and texture. These sliders are best enjoyed immediately while the chicken is still warm and the buns are soft. The contrast between the warm, spicy-sweet chicken and the cool, crisp lettuce is simply divine. Get ready for rave reviews!

Conclusion:

And so, we arrive at the culmination of our culinary journey with these truly exceptional Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. I genuinely hope you’re feeling inspired and ready to dive into your kitchen because, believe me, this recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when brought together with a touch of passion and a fantastic sauce, can create something utterly unforgettable. These aren’t just any chicken sliders; they are a vibrant explosion of flavor and texture that will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe rotation, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

What makes these sliders an absolute must-try, you ask? Well, let’s talk about that incredible Bang Bang sauce first. It’s a symphony of creamy, sweet, tangy, and subtly spicy notes that perfectly coats every piece of crispy chicken. The contrast between the tender, juicy chicken, the crunch of its coating, and the pillowy softness of the slider buns is pure culinary magic. Each bite offers a harmonious balance that dances on your palate, leaving you craving just one more. I’ve seen these disappear from platters at lightning speed, a clear indicator of their irresistible charm. They embody that perfect blend of comfort food and gourmet appeal, making them versatile enough for a casual family dinner or an impressive appetizer at your next gathering. This recipe offers a delightful departure from the ordinary, promising a burst of flavor that will excite even the most discerning palates. The ease of preparation, combined with the professional-level taste, makes these sliders a standout dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe. You’ll truly impress your guests and yourself with the vibrant presentation and the incredible depth of flavor in every bite.

Elevating Your Experience: Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations

Now that you’re convinced of their deliciousness, let’s explore how to best serve these beauties and how you can put your own spin on them. For serving, I always recommend complementing the richness of the sliders with something fresh and crisp. A vibrant, zesty coleslaw made with red cabbage and a light vinaigrette would be an ideal companion, cutting through the creaminess of the sauce beautifully. Alternatively, a simple green salad with a lemon-herb dressing can offer a refreshing counterpoint. If you’re leaning into the comfort food vibe, a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a bowl of seasoned potato wedges would be absolutely perfect. And for those game day gatherings, pairing them with some homemade onion rings takes them to another level of indulgence. Think about a cool, refreshing beverage too – a crisp lager, an ice-cold lemonade, or even a sparkling water with lime would complement the flavors wonderfully, making for a truly satisfying meal. Consider serving them on a large platter with colorful toothpicks for an inviting presentation, making them easy for guests to grab and enjoy. For a summer barbecue, these sliders make a fantastic alternative to traditional burgers, offering a unique and exciting flavor profile that will surely be a talking point.

But the beauty of a great recipe lies in its adaptability, and these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are no exception. Don’t hesitate to get creative in your kitchen! If you prefer a milder spice level, simply dial back on the Sriracha or omit the chili flakes entirely from the sauce. For those who love an extra kick, a few drops of ghost pepper hot sauce or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh bird’s eye chilies will certainly deliver. You can also experiment with your protein. While chicken is traditional, imagine these with crispy fried tofu for a vegetarian option, or even pan-seared shrimp for a seafood twist. Instead of slider buns, you could serve the Bang Bang chicken in crisp lettuce cups for a lighter, low-carb alternative, or even over a bed of jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles to transform it into a heartier bowl meal. Garnish-wise, don’t limit yourself to just sesame seeds and green onions. Try toasted peanuts for added crunch, fresh cilantro for a burst of herbaceousness, or even some pickled cucumbers for a tangy zing. Each small modification can open up a whole new dimension of flavor, allowing you to tailor this incredible dish precisely to your preferences and those of your guests. The possibilities are truly endless, and that’s what makes cooking such an exciting adventure! You could even turn them into full-sized sandwiches by using larger buns, or chop the chicken and serve it as a topping for a delicious salad. The core flavors of the Bang Bang sauce are so versatile, they lend themselves to countless creative interpretations.

Your Turn to Create Culinary Magic!

So, what are you waiting for? This is your invitation to experience the sheer delight of these amazing Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. I truly believe that once you make them, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic about this recipe. It’s not just food; it’s a mood, a celebration of vibrant flavors and satisfying textures that everyone will adore. Don’t be intimidated; the steps are straightforward, and the reward is immense. Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the process of creating something truly delicious. And please, I implore you, once you’ve whipped up your batch of these incredible sliders, come back and share your experience! Did you try a unique variation? What sides did you serve them with? Your feedback and creative twists are what make our cooking community so rich and inspiring. Share your photos, your tips, and your triumphs. I can’t wait to hear how much you and your loved ones enjoyed this fantastic recipe. Happy cooking and happy feasting!