After a long day, there’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a meal that packs both flavor and comfort. But let’s face it—sometimes you just don’t have the time to prepare an intricate dish. That’s where Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw come to the rescue. With a spicy kick from the creamy Bang Bang Sauce, crispy warm chicken tenders, and a refreshing crunch from the slaw, these sliders are a quick, satisfying meal you’ll love to make time and time again.
Imagine biting into a warm, toasty bun layered with tender chicken, a cool slaw that bursts with flavor, and just the right amount of heat to keep your taste buds on their toes. This recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner, a weekend snack, or even a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Best of all? It’s ready in just 25 minutes, with minimal prep and cleanup required. Let’s dive into how you can make these irresistible sliders your go-to dish. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas
Why These Spicy Chicken Sliders Deserve a Spot in Your Dinner Rotation
What Makes These Sliders Irresistible
Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw hit all the right notes for a meal that satisfies both your cravings and your need for convenience. Here’s why this dish should be added to your regular meal rotation:
- A Perfect Balance of Flavors: The creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang Sauce contrasts beautifully with the crunchy freshness of the slaw. This combination offers an explosion of flavors in every bite.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect solution for busy nights when you don’t want to sacrifice flavor for convenience.
- Kid-Friendly and Customizable: The sliders are both spicy and mild, allowing you to adjust the heat to fit your family’s taste preferences. If you prefer a milder version, it’s easy to tone down the sauce to suit everyone’s palate.
The Power of Bang Bang Sauce
At the heart of this dish is the Bang Bang Sauce, a creamy and spicy condiment that makes this recipe truly unique. The sauce blends together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and a touch of Sriracha for the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy.
The beauty of Bang Bang Sauce lies in its versatility. Not only does it work wonderfully for these sliders, but you can also use it as a dipping sauce for vegetables, grilled shrimp, or even as a topping for tacos and wraps. The recipe is easy to make and can be stored in your fridge for up to a week, meaning you always have a flavorful sauce ready to elevate any dish.
Ingredient Breakdown for Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw
To make these delicious Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw, you’ll need the following ingredients. The recipe is straightforward, and you can easily find these ingredients at your local grocery store.
Slider Ingredients Table
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Red cabbage, thinly sliced | 2 cups |
Carrot, julienned | 1 large |
Fresh cilantro, chopped | 1/4 cup |
Bang Bang Sauce (see below) | 1 batch |
Bang Bang Chicken (prepared, warm) | 1 batch |
Hamburger buns, toasted | 4 |
Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients Table
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
Thai sweet chili sauce | 1/2 cup |
Sriracha | 1 tsp (or more) |
Honey | 2 tbsp |
These ingredients come together to create a hearty, flavorful meal that will have your taste buds dancing. The slaw offers a refreshing crunch, while the spicy chicken and creamy sauce deliver all the satisfaction of a great meal.
How to Make Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw
Making these sliders is simple and straightforward. With just a few easy steps, you can enjoy a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare—when, in reality, it only takes 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Slaw
Start by preparing the slaw. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the thinly sliced red cabbage, julienned carrot, and freshly chopped cilantro. The red cabbage provides a satisfying crunch, while the carrots add a subtle sweetness. The cilantro brings a burst of fresh flavor that balances the richness of the sauce.
Next, add 1/4 cup of Bang Bang Sauce to the bowl and toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated. If you prefer more sauce, feel free to add a bit more until you reach your desired level of flavor. This slaw will be the perfect topping for your sliders, providing both texture and a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.
2. Toast the Buns
While you prepare the slaw, lightly toast the hamburger buns. You can do this in a skillet or on a baking sheet in the oven. Toasting the buns adds texture and prevents them from getting soggy when you add the sauce. You want them to be golden and slightly crisp on the outside, but still soft and fluffy on the inside.
3. Assemble the Sliders
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start by placing 2–3 warm Bang Bang Chicken tenders on the bottom half of each toasted bun. These tenders should be crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, thanks to the flavorful Bang Bang Chicken recipe you prepared earlier.
Top the chicken with approximately 1/4 cup of the prepared slaw. Drizzle a little extra Bang Bang Sauce over the slaw for an added burst of flavor. Finally, cap each slider with the top half of the bun, pressing down gently to help everything stay in place.
Serve immediately while the sliders are warm and fresh. These sliders are best enjoyed right away, but you can also wrap them up for a tasty lunch the next day.
Make-Ahead Tips & Storage Advice
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you’re short on time, you can still prepare some components of this meal in advance. Here’s how:
- Bang Bang Sauce: You can make the sauce up to 5 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will be ready whenever you need it.
- Slaw: While the slaw is best fresh, you can prepare the cabbage, carrots, and cilantro ahead of time. Just wait to add the sauce until you’re ready to serve to prevent the slaw from becoming soggy.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers, store the components separately to maintain their freshness. The Bang Bang Chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, and the Bang Bang Sauce lasts up to a week. The slaw is best consumed within a day, but it can last for 2–3 days in the fridge.
To reheat the Bang Bang Chicken, use an air fryer or an oven to maintain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Customization Ideas for Your Sliders
Dietary Tweaks
- Gluten-Free: Swap the regular hamburger buns for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps if you’re looking for a low-carb option.
- Low Carb: Consider using lettuce leaves as buns to reduce the carb content and make this meal keto-friendly.
- Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, simply use a vegan mayo in the sauce. There are also vegan options for honey or sweeteners if needed.
Flavor Variations
While this recipe is fantastic as is, don’t hesitate to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:
- Add Sliced Pickles or Jalapeños: Add a tangy or spicy kick to your sliders with pickles or jalapeños. They’ll balance out the richness of the sauce and add another layer of texture.
- Try Different Toppings: Top your sliders with creamy avocado slices or fresh tomatoes to enhance the flavor and make them even more satisfying.
- Switch Up the Chicken: Instead of using crispy chicken tenders, try grilled or roasted chicken for a lighter variation.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw:
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 430 kcal |
Protein | ~20 g |
Carbohydrates | ~30 g |
Fats | ~25 g |
Prep Time | 15 minutes |
Cook Time | 10 minutes |
Total Time | 25 minutes |
These sliders are a satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling weighed down. With a balanced combination of protein, healthy fats, and a reasonable amount of carbs, they make a great choice for any occasion.
FAQ – Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw
What can I use instead of Bang Bang Chicken?
You can easily swap out the Bang Bang Chicken for grilled chicken, crispy baked chicken, or even tofu if you want a plant-based option. The flavors of the Bang Bang Sauce will still shine through, no matter the protein choice.
Can I make the Bang Bang Sauce less spicy?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder sauce, simply reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit it entirely. You can also balance the heat with more honey or a bit of vinegar to adjust the flavor.
What kind of buns work best for sliders?
For the best sliders, use soft, fluffy buns that can hold up to the filling without falling apart. Brioche or potato rolls work particularly well. You can also opt for whole grain or gluten-free buns if preferred.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
While the components of the sliders can be prepped in advance, it’s best to assemble them just before serving to preserve the freshness and crunch. The Bang Bang Sauce and Bang Bang Chicken can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Final Thoughts – Your Next Favorite Weeknight Fix
There’s something undeniably satisfying about sinking your teeth into a perfectly crafted slider. The balance of creamy, spicy, and crunchy flavors will leave you craving more every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends for a fun gathering, Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw are sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and a ton of flavor, they’re the perfect addition to your meal rotation.
So why wait? Get started on these Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw tonight, and see for yourself how easy it is to enjoy bold, delicious flavors at home.
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Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw: The Bold Bite You’ve Been Craving
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
- Spicy Chicken Sliders with Crunchy Slaw: A quick, flavorful meal with crispy chicken and creamy slaw—ready in 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
- 1 batch of Bang Bang Sauce (RECIPE IS BELOW)
- 1 batch of Bang Bang Chicken, prepared and warm
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
Instructions
- Prepare the Slaw: In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced red cabbage, julienned carrot, and freshly chopped cilantro. Add 1/4 cup of Bang Bang Sauce and mix well, making sure all the vegetables are coated evenly. Add more sauce if necessary to achieve your desired level of flavor.
- Assemble the Sliders: Place 2-3 warm Bang Bang Chicken tenders on the bottom half of each toasted hamburger bun. Top the chicken with approximately 1/4 cup of the prepared cabbage mixture.
- Drizzle additional Bang Bang Sauce over the cabbage mixture.
- Finish each slider by placing the top half of the hamburger bun on top. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
- Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4
- Creamy and Spicy Bang Bang Sauce
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Instructions:
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until all ingredients are well blended and the sauce is smooth.
- Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the level of spiciness by adding more Sriracha if desired.
- Serve or Store: Use the sauce immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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