If you are craving a snack that packs a punch of flavor while coming together in a flash, this 30-Minute Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine crispy, golden chicken coated with a perfectly balanced creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, all nestled within soft slider buns. It’s a delightful combination that delivers in every bite—ideal for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or anytime you want a mouthwatering treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether adding crispy texture, tangy heat, or fresh brightness, creating a harmonious flavor experience that feels fresh yet comforting.
- Chicken breasts or tenders: These provide the juicy, tender base for the crispy coating.
- Panko breadcrumbs: For that golden, irresistible crunch that makes every bite satisfying.
- Egg: Acts as the glue to hold the coating firmly on the chicken.
- All-purpose flour: The first layer in the breading process to ensure a crisp crust.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness to the signature bang bang sauce.
- Sweet chili sauce: Brings a perfect sweetness combined with a gentle heat.
- Sriracha: Adjust this to your preferred spice level for that iconic kick.
- Rice vinegar: Lends a little acidity that brightens the sauce and balances the flavors.
- Slider buns: Soft and small, perfectly sized for handheld enjoyment.
- Lettuce (optional): Adds a refreshing crunch and color contrast.
- Pickles (optional): For a tangy punch that cuts through the richness of the chicken and sauce.
How to Make 30-Minute Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your breading station
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to have it ready for the final steps. Then set up three shallow dishes or plates: one with all-purpose flour, one with a beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This classic breading method ensures the chicken will get that coveted crunchy coating.
Step 2: Coat the chicken pieces
Take your chicken breasts or tenders and first dredge each piece lightly in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip them into the beaten egg, allowing the coating to stick evenly. Finally, press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs until completely covered. This triple coating creates the perfect crust for frying.
Step 3: Fry the chicken to golden perfection
Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken pieces. Fry them until golden brown on both sides, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes per side depending on thickness. After frying, set the chicken on paper towels to soak up any excess oil and maintain crispness.
Step 4: Mix the bang bang sauce
While the chicken is resting, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar in a bowl until smooth and creamy. This sauce is where all the flavor magic happens, offering that tantalizing balance of creamy, spicy, tangy, and sweet.
Step 5: Assemble the sliders
Slice your slider buns horizontally and, if you like, add a layer of crisp lettuce on the bottom for freshness. Place a piece of crispy fried chicken on top and generously drizzle with the bang bang sauce. Add pickles or any other favorite toppings, then cover with the bun tops. These sliders are meant to be enjoyed with your hands and a big smile.
How to Serve 30-Minute Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your sliders from great to unforgettable. Think thinly sliced green onions, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, or a few sprigs of cilantro for an herbal brightness. These accents add layers of flavor and a pop of color that make the dish more appealing.
Side Dishes
Pair these sliders with crunchy coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a classic combo that balances creamy textures and crispness. A simple cucumber salad or steamed edamame can also bring refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy chicken, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, arrange the sliders on a wooden board with mini skewers securing each sandwich, adding garnishes artistically around them. Alternatively, serve the components separately—crispy chicken, sauce, and toppings—letting guests build their own sliders, which can add a fun interactive element to your gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken separately from the buns in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep the coating crisp and the buns from getting soggy. The bang bang sauce can be kept in a sealed jar or small container. Leftovers are best enjoyed within two days.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until solid, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. Avoid freezing the buns or sauce, as their texture will change upon thawing. Frozen chicken can be kept for up to one month.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to revive the crunchiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to soften the crust. Warm the buns separately briefly before assembling the sliders again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts or tenders?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work wonderfully here and offer a juicier, more flavorful alternative. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
How spicy is the 30-Minute Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe?
The heat level depends mostly on the amount of sriracha you add. Start with 1 tablespoon for a mild kick, and increase if you like things spicier. The sweet chili sauce also balances the heat nicely.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Absolutely! Baking is a lighter alternative. After breading, place the chicken on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
If panko is not available, you can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a similarly crispy coating, though panko’s lightness gives the best texture.
Are there vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?
While this recipe features chicken, you could try crispy fried tofu or cauliflower florets coated and sauced in the same way for a delicious vegetarian twist.
Final Thoughts
This 30-Minute Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe is one of those joyful discoveries that combines speed, flavor, and ease all in one delicious package. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and satisfaction to your taste buds. Don’t wait to give these sliders a try and add a new favorite to your meal rotation!
Print
30-Minute Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These 30-Minute Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a quick and flavorful meal featuring crispy fried chicken breasts coated in panko breadcrumbs and topped with a spicy, tangy bang bang sauce. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner, these sliders combine crunchy texture with creamy heat and are served on soft slider buns with optional lettuce and pickles.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 2–3 chicken breasts (or chicken tenders)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
Slider Assembly
- Slider buns
- Lettuce (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Breading Station: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Set up a breading station by arranging separate shallow dishes: one with the all-purpose flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with the panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken breast or tender and dredge it in the flour, ensuring full coverage. Next, dip it into the beaten egg to coat, then roll it thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs to create a crispy coating.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully fry the breaded chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha (start with 1 tablespoon and add more if desired), and rice vinegar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the Sliders: Slice the slider buns and lay down a leaf of lettuce if using. Place a piece of the crispy fried chicken on each bun, then drizzle generously with the bang bang sauce. Top with pickles or any other desired toppings and cover with the bun tops. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust sriracha amount based on your preferred spice level.
- For juicier chicken, use chicken tenders or pound chicken breasts to even thickness before breading.
- Serve with pickles or other fresh veggies to add crunch.
- Can be made ahead by preparing sauce and breading chicken in advance; fry just before serving.
- Use a thermometer to ensure chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
