Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe Easy Weeknight Dinner Idea

The crunch of a toasted slider bun, the creamy zing of bang bang sauce, and juicy chicken bursting with flavor—these Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the ultimate weeknight dinner idea. I first tried this recipe during a busy Tuesday evening when I needed something fun but effortless, and let me tell you, it was an instant hit with my family. These little sandwiches pack so much flavor into every bite, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner!

If you’re looking for a recipe that feels a little special without spending hours in the kitchen, this is it. The bang bang sauce is the star here—sweet, spicy, and creamy. Pair that with perfectly seasoned chicken and a soft slider bun, and you’ve got yourself a winning meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something quick and easy, these sliders check all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for those chaotic weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy shopping trips required—most of the ingredients are pantry staples.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for casual dinners, game nights, or even as party appetizers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The creamy bang bang sauce makes every bite irresistible.

What makes this recipe stand out is how it combines bold flavors with minimal effort. The chicken is marinated and cooked to tender perfection, while the bang bang sauce adds a punch of heat and sweetness that’s totally addictive. Plus, these sliders are easy to customize—spicy, mild, gluten-free—you name it!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses straightforward ingredients to create a flavor-packed dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into small pieces).
• Slider Buns: Soft, fluffy buns—try brioche or Hawaiian rolls for added sweetness.
• Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha (adjust heat to your preference), and a touch of honey.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs for a crispy coating (feel free to use gluten-free breadcrumbs).
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Eggs: Beaten, for dredging.
• Oil: For frying or air-frying (vegetable oil or avocado oil work great).
• Optional Toppings: Shredded lettuce, pickles, or coleslaw for extra crunch and freshness.

Most of these ingredients are kitchen staples, and you can easily tweak them based on your needs. For example, use dairy-free mayo for a lactose-free option or swap sriracha with a milder hot sauce for less spice.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to whip up these sliders. Here’s the basic kitchen equipment:

• Mixing Bowls: For preparing the marinade and coating the chicken.
• Skillet or Frying Pan: For frying the chicken (a nonstick pan works best).
• Tongs: Handy for flipping chicken pieces while cooking.
• Air Fryer (Optional): If you prefer a healthier, oil-free cooking method.
• Whisk: To mix the bang bang sauce smoothly.
• Baking Sheet: For keeping cooked chicken warm in the oven before assembling.

If you don’t have an air fryer, don’t worry—pan-frying works just as well. And for those on a budget, a basic frying pan and mixing bowls are all you really need.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon sriracha, and 1 teaspoon honey. Adjust sriracha to taste. Set aside.
2. Season the Chicken: Cut 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into small bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, toss chicken with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Set Up Breading Station: In one bowl, beat 2 eggs. In another bowl, place 1 cup panko breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2-3 tablespoons oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes per side). Alternatively, cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Toast the Slider Buns: Lightly butter the buns and toast them in a skillet or oven until golden and warm.
6. Assemble the Sliders: Spread bang bang sauce on both sides of each bun. Add crispy chicken pieces and top with shredded lettuce, pickles, or coleslaw as desired.
7. Serve Immediately: Enjoy while warm for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tip: If your chicken pieces aren’t browning evenly, reduce heat slightly and cook longer. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches for crispier results!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips to guarantee slider success:

• Don’t Skip the Sauce: The bang bang sauce is what makes this recipe shine. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha.
• Keep Chicken Juicy: Don’t overcook the chicken—golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside is the goal.
• Air Fryer Hack: For a healthier option, air-fry the chicken instead of pan-frying. It’s just as crispy but uses less oil.
• Toast the Buns: A quick toast adds warmth and texture to the sliders, making them extra delicious.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then assemble the sliders right before serving.

Variations & Adaptations

Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
• Mild Version: Replace sriracha with a mild hot sauce or leave it out entirely for a kid-friendly option.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra sriracha or a dash of cayenne to the bang bang sauce for more heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for crispy cauliflower or tofu bites—the bang bang sauce pairs beautifully with both.
• Seasonal Twist: Use fresh avocado slices or roasted red peppers as toppings for a summer-inspired variation.

I’ve tried the vegetarian version with cauliflower, and it’s just as satisfying as the original. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store these sliders:

• Serving: Serve warm with a side of fries, sweet potato wedges, or a fresh green salad. They’re also great paired with a cold drink like iced tea or lemonade.
• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the bang bang sauce separate.
• Reheating: Reheat chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness, or use an air fryer for faster results.
• Flavors Over Time: The sauce’s flavors deepen as it sits, making it even tastier the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These sliders are indulgent yet balanced. Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per slider:

• Calories: Approx. 320
• Protein: 18g
• Carbs: 25g
• Fat: 15g

The chicken provides lean protein, while the sauce adds healthy fats from mayonnaise. Customize with whole-grain buns or lighter toppings for a healthier option.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are the ultimate easy weeknight dinner idea. They’re quick, flavorful, and endlessly customizable to fit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a recipe to impress guests, these sliders deliver every time.

I love how versatile this recipe is—it’s great for casual dinners but equally perfect for entertaining. Plus, they’re a breeze to prepare, making them a go-to in my household. Give them a try, and let me know what you think!

If you make these sliders, drop a comment below and share your version. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and share it with friends. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and bang bang sauce in advance. Store them in separate containers, then assemble the sliders right before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat the chicken?

Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in an air fryer for 5-10 minutes to maintain crispiness.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and slider buns. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! Try shrimp, fish fillets, or even crispy tofu for a fun twist.

Is the bang bang sauce very spicy?

It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha based on your preference.

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