Introduction:
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the perfect combination of crispy chicken and a spicy, creamy sauce, all packed into a mini bun for a satisfying bite-sized treat. These sliders are ideal for parties, game days, or even a fun family dinner. The juicy, flavorful chicken is complemented by a tangy Bang Bang sauce, crunchy lettuce, and fresh toppings, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just love a good chicken sandwich, these sliders are sure to become a favorite.
Overview of the Recipe:
This recipe for Bang Bang Chicken Sliders features crispy, fried chicken pieces coated in a flavorful buttermilk marinade and a panko breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a perfect crunch in every bite. The star of the dish is the Bang Bang sauce, a spicy, sweet, and tangy concoction that ties all the flavors together. These sliders are quick to assemble, making them an easy option for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.
History and Origin:
Bang Bang Chicken is a dish that originally hails from the Sichuan province in China, known for its bold and spicy flavors. The dish typically features poached chicken drizzled with a spicy sauce made from chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, and other seasonings. Over time, the dish has been adapted in Western cuisine, where it often appears as crispy fried chicken served with a creamy, spicy sauce. The addition of sliders to this recipe brings a modern twist, making it a convenient and delicious option for contemporary palates.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sliders:
- 12 mini slider buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ½ cup pickles (optional)
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- Start by cutting the 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1 to 2 inches in size.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup buttermilk, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Whisk the mixture until all the spices are well incorporated.
- Add the chicken pieces to the buttermilk marinade, ensuring each piece is fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken. For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
2. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
- Stir the ingredients together until the sauce is smooth and well blended. Set aside the sauce to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the chicken.
3. Fry the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, mix together 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1 cup panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying (around 350°F or 175°C).
- Remove the marinated chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour and panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the chicken is well-coated.
- Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, frying each piece for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet; fry the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Once fried, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
- Begin by slicing the 12 mini slider buns in half if they are not pre-sliced.
- Spread a generous amount of the prepared Bang Bang sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each slider bun.
- Place a piece of fried chicken on the bottom half of each bun.
- Top the chicken with 1 cup of shredded lettuce, ½ cup thinly sliced red onion, and ½ cup pickles if using.
- For a fresh and vibrant flavor, add a few sprigs of fresh cilantro on top of the chicken.
- Close each slider with the top bun and serve immediately.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are perfect as a main dish or an appetizer. Serve them alongside sweet potato fries, a fresh green salad, or a light coleslaw for a well-rounded meal. A cool, creamy side like cucumber salad can help balance the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce. For beverages, consider serving these sliders with iced tea, lemonade, or a refreshing sparkling water with lime.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Grilled Chicken Option: For a lighter version, grill the marinated chicken pieces instead of frying them. This will reduce the calorie content and add a smoky flavor to the sliders.
- Spicy Upgrade: Increase the amount of sriracha sauce in the Bang Bang sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicier kick.
- Vegetarian Sliders: Substitute the chicken with crispy tofu or a plant-based chicken alternative. Use the same marinade and frying process for the tofu, ensuring it’s well-coated with the panko mixture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs in the dredging mixture, and opt for gluten-free buns.
Health Benefits Notes:
While these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are indulgent, you can make healthier adjustments without sacrificing flavor. Grilling the chicken instead of frying can significantly reduce the fat content. Additionally, using a light mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce and opting for whole-grain slider buns can make these sliders a more nutritious choice. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like lettuce, red onion, and cilantro also adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish.
FAQs:
1. Can I make the chicken ahead of time? Yes, you can fry the chicken pieces ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until crispy before assembling the sliders.
2. Can I use store-bought Bang Bang sauce? While homemade Bang Bang sauce is recommended for its fresh flavor, you can use store-bought sauce if you’re short on time. Adjust the seasoning to taste if needed.
3. How do I prevent the chicken from getting soggy? To keep the chicken crispy, avoid assembling the sliders until just before serving. You can also reheat the chicken in the oven if it has been sitting out for a while.
4. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying? Yes, you can bake the chicken for a healthier alternative. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. How can I make the sliders less spicy? If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it entirely. You can also increase the amount of honey or mayonnaise to balance out the heat.
Conclusion:
Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress. With their crispy fried chicken, tangy Bang Bang sauce, and fresh toppings, these sliders offer a perfect blend of textures and tastes in every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a family meal, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit. Try out the variations to customize the recipe to your liking, and enjoy the delicious combination of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors in these irresistible sliders.