If you’re on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun dinner that combines zesty flavor with irresistible crunch, let me introduce you to the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe. Juicy, crispy chicken cutlets, rich mozzarella cheese, and a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce all tucked into fluffy slider rolls—this dish is absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re prepping for game day, a backyard gathering, or simply ringing the dinner bell for your favorite people, these sliders will steal the show and leave everyone reaching for seconds.

Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts of this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe is how it brings together everyday ingredients—each one playing a starring role in building those layers of flavor and crunch. From the extra-crispy breading to the bold, creamy sauce, here’s what you’ll need and why each bit matters.

Chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds, thinly sliced): Use thin slices for cutlets that fry quickly and stay juicy.
Kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder: Seasonings for infusing the chicken with savory depth and subtle spice.
Flour (1/2 cup): The base for breading, ensuring everything sticks together perfectly.
Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Blends with the flour to make the crispest golden coating possible.
Buttermilk (1 cup): Tenderizes the chicken and helps the breading cling for maximum crunch.
Hot sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds just-right heat and zing to the marinade stage.
Egg (1 large): Helps everything adhere and adds richness to the coating.
Panko bread crumbs (2 cups or more as needed): Delivers that signature light, shatteringly crisp crust.
Vegetable or canola oil: Neutral-flavored oil perfect for shallow frying—go for a thin layer in your pan for even browning.
Mozzarella cheese (12 slices): Melts deliciously over your warm chicken, providing that irresistible stretchy element.
Slider rolls (12): Soft, pillowy buns that hold everything together in two perfect bites.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your thin-sliced chicken breasts on both sides with a generous pinch of kosher salt, a crack of black pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. This first layer of flavor is essential because it soaks right into the meat, ensuring every bite is tasty even before the breading goes on.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

Next, create a three-bowl assembly line: in the first bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch; in the second, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, and egg; and in the third, add the panko bread crumbs. The order matters: flour mixture first for dry adhesion, buttermilk for tang and moisture, then panko for that signature crunch.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Take each seasoned piece of chicken and dredge it in the flour-cornstarch mix, shaking off any excess. Immerse it in the buttermilk-egg-hot sauce mixture, letting any extra drip back into the bowl. Finally, press the chicken into the panko bread crumbs, making sure every nook is coated—this step guarantees extra crunch when frying.

Step 4: Fry the Cutlets

Pour a thin layer of vegetable or canola oil into your skillet and heat over medium. When the oil is shimmering, fry the breaded chicken cutlets in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Place fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate, and continue until all the cutlets are perfectly golden.

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

Whisk together the ingredients for your bang bang sauce in a small bowl (mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha make a killer combo!) and set it aside. This sauce is the secret star of the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe, bringing creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors that tie the whole dish together.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

To assemble your sliders, cut the crispy chicken cutlets into smaller pieces and place each on the bottom half of a slider bun. Top with a slice of mozzarella cheese while the chicken is still warm—the cheese will melt beautifully. Drizzle a generous spoonful of bang bang sauce over each slider, pop the lids on, and serve right away.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

Garnishes

Give these sliders a pop of color and extra flavor by showering them with thinly sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or even a shaving of fresh red chili for heat. These finishing touches not only look gorgeous but also add a little texture and freshness to your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe.

Side Dishes

Pair these sliders with crisp slaw, sweet potato fries, or a refreshing cucumber salad for a vibrant, balanced meal. Classic potato chips or pickles also make a perfect, effortless accompaniment to your platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the usual platter: try serving your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe arranged on a rustic wooden board, nestled among lettuce leaves, or with tiny skewers for party-ready bites. Mini flags or labels are fun if you’re offering a build-your-own slider bar with extra toppings and sauces.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra sliders (it doesn’t happen often!), store the chicken, sauce, and buns separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken will stay fresh for up to three days and the sauce for about a week.

Freezing

You can freeze the fried chicken cutlets before assembling the sliders—just let them cool, then place on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Hold off on freezing the sauce and cheese, though, for the best texture.

Reheating

To bring back the crispy texture, reheat the chicken cutlets on a baking sheet in a 375°F oven for about 10 minutes until hot and crisp. Reassemble the sliders with fresh rolls, cheese, and sauce just before serving for that just-made taste.

FAQs

What is bang bang sauce made of?

The classic bang bang sauce for the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe combines creamy mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha for a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and gentle heat.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely! Place breaded chicken pieces on a baking rack set over a sheet tray, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F until golden and crispy, about 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Are these sliders spicy?

They do have a mild spicy kick from the hot sauce and bang bang sauce, but you can easily adjust it to your liking—use less hot sauce or chili for a milder taste, or bump it up if your crew loves more heat.

Can I prepare the Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe ahead of time?

You can bread and fry the chicken cutlets a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Warm them in the oven and assemble fresh with cheese and sauce for easy entertaining or meal prep.

What other cheeses work in this recipe?

Mozzarella is classic for its melt and mild flavor, but provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda work beautifully if you want a twist on your Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a little kitchen adventure and a lot of big flavors, give this Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe a go. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality treat at home—perfect for parties, snack dinners, or just treating yourself. Happy cooking!