Busy weeks call for quick, fun meals. I stumbled upon these crispy bang bang chicken sliders after a few mishaps with cooking chicken, which left my kitchen in chaos. Now, they’re a hit at home, disappearing in minutes—especially with that spicy-sweet sauce drizzled on top.

The magic lies in the cornstarch coating. It creates a super crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside, thanks to the combination of tenderizing buttermilk and heat.

Ingredients in Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

These sliders pack a punch thanks to the perfect blend of ingredients that work together to create a crispy, flavorful bite. Let’s break down what you’ll need to whip up these tasty treats.

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful, making them ideal for frying and soaking up that creamy sauce.
  • Buttermilk: Tenderizes the chicken, ensuring every bite is moist.
  • Cornstarch: Creates a super crispy exterior that locks in moisture while frying, giving you that crunch you crave.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
  • Onion Powder: A subtle touch that complements the garlic and rounds out the seasoning profile.
  • Mayonnaise: Forms the base of our sauce, adding creaminess and richness to balance the heat.
  • Sweet Thai Chili Sauce: Brings a sticky-sweet flavor and a hint of tanginess that ties everything together.
  • Sriracha: Adjust for heat; it gives the sliders a spicy kick that pairs well with the sweetness.
  • Honey: Optional for extra sweetness, it can balance the heat from the Sriracha.
  • Brioche Slider Buns: Soft, lightly toasted buns that hold everything together and add a touch of sweetness.
  • Green Onions: Garnish with sliced green onions for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

You can whip up these crispy bang bang chicken sliders in just 30 minutes. With a little prep and frying, you’ll have a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and crunch.

  1. Marinate Chicken: Whisk buttermilk in a bowl. Add the chicken pieces and let them soak for 15 minutes. This step tenderizes the chicken, making every bite juicy.

  2. Prep Dredge: Mix cornstarch, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow dish. This coating is what gives the sliders their crispiness.

  3. Coat Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and press it firmly into the cornstarch mixture to ensure a good coating. You want that cornstarch to cling on for a super crispy finish.

  4. Heat Oil: In a deep pan, heat oil to 350°F. You should see little bubbles forming when it’s ready. This temperature is key for that golden-edged crunch.

  5. Cook Chicken: Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil. Cook for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!

  6. Make Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, and Sriracha. This sauce ties everything together with a creamy, spicy kick.

  7. Toss Chicken: Once the chicken is done, toss it in the sauce until evenly coated. You want every piece to get that sticky-sweet flavor.

  8. Assemble Sliders: Place the sauced chicken on lightly toasted brioche buns. Top with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch.

Enjoy these crispy sliders—they won’t last long!

Switch It Up: Easy Variations

Busy nights can call for a little creativity in the kitchen. Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting while sticking to that crispy bang bang goodness.

  • Air Fryer Version: Use an air fryer for a lighter take on the sliders. Spray the coated chicken liberally with oil and air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway for that crunch without all the oil.

  • Spicy Kick Sliders: If you like it hot, add more Sriracha to the cornstarch mixture before coating the chicken. It’ll give your sliders a nice kick.

  • Shrimp Sliders: Swap the chicken for large shrimp for a seafood twist. Just remember to reduce the frying time to 2-3 minutes so they stay juicy and tender.

These variations let you have fun while making these crispy bang bang chicken sliders your own!

Keeping the Goodness Fresh

Store any leftover crispy bang bang chicken sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’ve got more than you can eat, freeze the chicken pieces separately from the buns for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let everything cool before sealing it up; it’ll help maintain that crispy coating when you reheat.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them crispy while warming them through. If you’re reheating the sauce, do it on low heat, stirring often to avoid burning. That way, you can enjoy them almost as good as fresh!

Crunchy Companions to Elevate Your Sliders

These crispy bang bang chicken sliders are the life of the party, but pairing them with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. A few thoughtful additions can really enhance the overall experience.

Perfect Side Dishes

  • Crispy French Fries: The crunch of hot fries contrasts beautifully with the tender sliders. Plus, you can dip them in any leftover sauce for an extra kick.
  • Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw adds a nice crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the sliders.
  • Potato Wedges: They provide a hearty side that pairs well with the sliders.

Elevate with Toppings

  • Green Onions: A sprinkle of these adds a fresh bite and a pop of color to your sliders.

What do you think? Which sides would you add to your crispy bang bang chicken sliders?