Introduction to Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Looking for a fun, delicious way to spice up your summer gatherings? Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are here to steal the show! Imagine crispy, breaded chicken breasts, cooked to golden perfection and seasoned with flavor, all nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls. These sliders are not just a meal; they’re an experience that promises to tantalize your taste buds and keep your guests asking for more.
Why are Bang Bang Chicken Sliders a must-try?
These sliders are a fantastic fusion of textures and flavors. The crunchy panko-breaded chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, creating a bite that's nothing short of irresistible. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re simple to make and customizable; you can easily add your favorite toppings, like fresh lettuce from your garden, to make them uniquely yours.
For those looking to explore further, check out Serious Eats for additional insights on flavor combinations and cooking tips that will elevate your slider game even more. So, are you ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
When crafting the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Sliders, the right ingredients make all the difference. Here’s a rundown of what you'll need to bring this delicious dish to life.
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 your choice of vegetable oil
For more tips on selecting chicken, check out this informative guide.
Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce (like Tabasco®)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
A good bang bang sauce is essential—it's what adds that irresistible flavor.
Roll Options
For a delightful base, you can use either:
- 1 (12-count) package Hawaiian rolls
- Small sourdough rolls
These options bring sweetness and texture, setting the stage perfectly for the bang bang chicken sliders. Enjoy experimenting with different types of rolls to find your favorite!
Preparing Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Making bang bang chicken sliders is easier than you might think, especially with the right prep! Let’s walk through the steps so you can impress your friends at your next gathering.
Gather and prepare ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it's essential to gather all your ingredients. This not only saves time but also ensures you won’t forget anything. For the sliders, you’ll need:
- 1 ½ pounds of skinless, boneless chicken breast (butterflied and pounded thin)
- The ingredients for the breading: a large egg, water, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, and panko bread crumbs.
- 1 cup of your preferred cooking oil (avocado oil is excellent).
- And let’s not forget the star of the show: the Bang Bang sauce — mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot pepper sauce, and rice vinegar.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a cinch later.
Bread the chicken
Now that you have everything laid out, it’s time to bread the chicken. Cut your flattened chicken breast into about 12 pieces. In three shallow bowls, prepare your egg wash mixture (egg and water), your seasoned flour mixture, and your panko breadcrumbs.
Here’s the process:
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash.
- Then, coat it in the flour mixture.
- Repeat the egg dip and finish off in the panko.
Once each piece is well-coated, place them on the prepared baking sheet. A chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes helps set the breading, making it crispier when fried.
Make the Bang Bang sauce
While the chicken chills, let’s whip up that delectable Bang Bang sauce! In a small bowl, mix together:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce (like Tabasco®)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Feeling creative? You can adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste; perhaps add more hot sauce for an extra kick! If you have one, pour the sauce into a squirt bottle for easy application later.
Fry the chicken
After your chicken has chilled, it’s time for frying! Heat the oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. You’ll want to ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken — about 350°F (177°C) is ideal.
Add each piece carefully to avoid splattering, frying them for about 3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that they reach 165°F (74°C) at the center. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to catch any excess oil.
Assemble the sliders
It's slider time! Cut your Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and toast them lightly. Grab those lettuce leaves, and here’s how to put it together:
- Spread a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of the roll.
- Layer on 2 pieces of lettuce.
- Place one crispy chicken piece on top and add a little more Bang Bang sauce if you wish.
- Top it off with the other half of the roll.
And just like that, you have your delicious bang bang chicken sliders! Enjoy them right away, and get ready to savor every bite! If you’re interested in side dishes, consider pairing these sliders with a fresh salad or sweet potato fries. Happy cooking!
Variations on Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders with a Twist
Why not infuse your bang bang chicken sliders with a regional flair? You can spice things up by adding a layer of chipotle mayo or replacing the traditional lettuce with spicy slaw for an extra crunch. For those who love a bit of sweetness, consider topping your sliders with mango salsa or pineapple slices. These twists not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant color to your plate!
Vegetarian Alternatives for Bang Bang Sliders
Craving that bang bang goodness but prefer plant-based options? Swap out the chicken for crispy tofu bites or cauliflower steaks tossed in your favorite seasoning. Another fantastic choice is to use chickpea patties, which absorb the bang bang sauce beautifully. Pair these fillings with avocado slices for creaminess that perfectly complements the slider's spicy kick. With these vegetarian alternatives, everyone can join in on the fun!
For more tips on customizing your sliders, check out this guide to flavor pairings.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Tips for Frying Chicken to Perfection
To achieve perfectly crispy bang bang chicken sliders, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. A good test is to drop a small piece of bread in the oil; if it sizzles immediately, you’re ready! Fry the chicken in batches without crowding the pan, which helps to keep the temperature consistent. Remember to drain the fried chicken on paper towels to remove excess oil and maintain that crispiness.
Notes on Making the Sauce Spicier
If you love heat, don’t hold back! To make the bang bang sauce spicier, increase the amount of hot pepper sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper directly to the sauce mix. Alternatively, chopped fresh chili peppers or a splash of sriracha can elevate the flavor profile. Remember, tasting as you go is key—adjust until it hits just the right level of heat for you! For more cooking inspiration, check out Cooking Light’s spicy sauce guide.
Serving suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Ideal sides for sliders
Pair your bang bang chicken sliders with some delicious sides to elevate your meal. Here are a few ideas:
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness complements the spicy sliders perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch adds balance and is easy to whip up.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky flavor enhances the overall experience.
Creative platter ideas for gatherings
Hosting a gathering? Create a stunning platter that showcases your bang bang chicken sliders. Use a large wooden board or a vibrant serving tray and:
- Arrange the sliders with colorful dips like guacamole and ranch on the side.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and cherry tomatoes for that pop of color.
- Add a variety of sides like mini stuffed peppers or bite-sized sausages to offer guests different tastes.
These suggestions will not only impress your guests but also make your sliders the star of the show! For more ideas, check out this appetizer guide.
Time Breakdown for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Preparation Time
The preparation for these bang bang chicken sliders takes about 30 minutes. This includes getting all your ingredients ready, setting up your workspace, and preparing the chicken and bang bang sauce.
Cooking Time
The cooking stage will require an additional 15 minutes. That’s just enough time to fry up that deliciously crispy chicken to golden perfection!
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a summer gathering or a game day snack!
Planning to whip up these sliders? Check out our favorite tips for prepping ingredients ahead of time, or look into how to properly store any leftovers. You can find more insights on meal prep at Healthy Meal Prep. Enjoy your cooking!
Nutritional Facts for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
When indulging in these delicious bang bang chicken sliders, it’s good to keep the nutrition in mind. Here's a quick look at the vital stats per slider:
Calories
Each slider contains approximately 251 calories, making it a satisfying yet manageable treat for your next gathering.
Protein
With about 10g of protein, these sliders provide a nice boost, helping you feel fuller without making you sluggish.
Sodium
Just a heads up—each slider has around 406mg of sodium. If you're watching your intake, keep this in mind while enjoying this flavorful dish!
For more detailed nutritional insights, you can check out reputable sources like the USDA FoodData Central which provides comprehensive nutritional data. Enjoy the delights of these sliders while being mindful of your nutrition!
FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Can I make the sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the bang bang sauce ahead of time. Just store the fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, you can reheat the chicken in the oven or air fryer for that crispy texture before assembling your sliders. This makes hosting stress-free!
What are the best rolls to use?
For the perfect bite, we recommend using Hawaiian rolls or small sourdough rolls. These options have a soft texture and slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the spicy bang bang chicken sliders. You can also explore whole wheat or gluten-free rolls for a healthier twist!
How can I adjust the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce?
If you’re not a fan of heat, you can easily tone down the spice! Start by reducing the amount of hot pepper sauce in the bang bang sauce recipe. Alternatively, add a little more mayonnaise to balance out the flavors. For those who crave more heat, a few extra dashes of hot sauce can take it to the next level! Adjust according to your taste.
For more cooking tips, check out resources from Serious Eats and Bon Appétit.
Conclusion on Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
These Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the perfect dish for any summer gathering. Their crispy chicken, combined with the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, brings delightful flavors in every bite. Easy to prepare and delicious, they’re sure to impress guests. Dive in and enjoy homemade sliders!
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders
Equipment
- baking sheet
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Small bowl
- Shallow bowl
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.5 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 more as needed for frying
Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ 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
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Line a baking sheet with parchment and set aside.
- Cut flattened chicken into about 12 pieces.
- Combine egg and water in a shallow bowl. Combine flour, garlic powder, cayenne, coriander, salt, and black pepper in another shallow bowl; mix lightly. Add panko to a third shallow bowl.
- Dip each chicken piece into egg wash, then into flour mixture. Dip again into egg wash, then into panko. Once thoroughly coated, place on the prepared baking sheet. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill.
- Meanwhile, for bang bang sauce, stir mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, and rice vinegar together in a small bowl. Pour into a squirt bottle if desired. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Cover a large platter or plate with paper towels and set near the stove. Remove chicken from the refrigerator and carefully add to the oil, 1 piece at a time.
- Fry one side until golden brown, about 3 minutes, then turn. Fry an additional 3 minutes until chicken is no longer pink at the center and juices run clear. An instant read thermometer inserted near the center of chicken should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Remove to the prepared plate and repeat with remaining chicken.
- For sliders, cut rolls in half horizontally and lightly toast. Squeeze or spread some bang bang sauce on the bottom half, then lay down 2 lettuce leaves. Top with 1 piece of chicken. Layer on some more bang bang sauce and top with other half of roll. Enjoy!
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