Advertisements

Introduction

Craving a bold, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the heat and flavor to any gathering? Look no further than Slow Cooker Bang Bang Chicken Sliders! These irresistible sliders feature tender, slow-cooked chicken drenched in a spicy, creamy Bang Bang sauce, layered with crisp lettuce, red onions, and optional pickles, all nestled in toasted mini buns. The slow cooker makes the chicken juicy and flavorful with minimal effort, while the tangy sauce—packed with sweet chili, sriracha, and honey—delivers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Ideal for game-day parties, casual dinners, or meal prep, these sliders are a fun, handheld treat that’s sure to impress. Ready to fill your kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of spicy chicken and toasted buns? Let’s dive into this vibrant, delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!

Advertisements

Overview: Why Slow Cooker Bang Bang Chicken Sliders is a Must-Try

Slow Cooker Bang Bang Chicken Sliders is an American-Asian fusion dish that combines the spicy, creamy appeal of Bang Bang sauce with the comforting, shareable format of sliders. The slow cooker ensures a tender, flavorful chicken filling, while the toasted buns and fresh toppings add crunch and balance. It’s a high-protein, customizable dish that’s perfect for parties, family meals, or anyone craving a bold, spicy twist on sliders.

Time Requirement: 20 minutes prep, 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for the chicken, plus 15-20 minutes for assembly.
Difficulty Level: Easy! It involves slow cooking, sauce mixing, and simple assembly, suitable for all skill levels.
Why It’s Special: This dish is party-friendly, meal-prep-ready, and ideal for stress-free entertaining. The slow cooker simplifies the chicken, and the Bang Bang sauce delivers a crowd-pleasing kick.

This recipe makes 12 sliders, serving about 4-6 people, and is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a fun family dinner!

Essential Ingredients

The magic of Slow Cooker Bang Bang Chicken Sliders comes from its bold, textured ingredients. Each one adds spice, creaminess, or crunch to create a cohesive, restaurant-style dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2 lbs): Provides a tender, shreddable base.
- Substitution: Chicken thighs (for richer flavor), rotisserie chicken (skip slow cooking), or tofu for vegetarian.
Buttermilk (1 cup): Tenderizes and flavors the chicken.
- Substitution: Milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or plain yogurt thinned with water.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Infuses savory warmth.
- Substitution: 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced, or ½ tsp garlic salt (reduce added salt).
Onion Powder (1 tsp): Adds subtle, sweet depth.
- Substitution: ¼ cup finely diced onion or ½ tsp dried minced onion.
Paprika (1 tsp): Brings mild, smoky flavor.
- Substitution: Smoked paprika or chili powder for more heat.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances chicken flavor.
- Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options.
Black Pepper (½ tsp): Adds mild heat.
- Substitution: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne.

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise (½ cup): Creates a creamy, rich base.
- Substitution: Greek yogurt, sour cream, or vegan mayo.
Sweet Chili Sauce (¼ cup): Adds sweet, tangy heat.
- Substitution: 2 tbsp honey + 1 tbsp hot sauce + 1 tsp rice vinegar.
Sriracha Sauce (2 tbsp, adjust to taste): Brings spicy kick.
- Substitution: Hot sauce, chili garlic sauce, or reduce for milder flavor.
Honey (1 tbsp): Balances heat with sweetness.
- Substitution: Maple syrup or agave nectar.
Lime Juice (1 tbsp): Adds bright, tangy zest.
- Substitution: Lemon juice or ½ tbsp white vinegar.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Enhances savory depth.
- Substitution: 1 fresh garlic clove, minced.

For the Sliders

Mini Slider Buns (12): Soft, toasted base for the sliders.
- Substitution: Dinner rolls, brioche buns, or gluten-free buns.
Shredded Lettuce (1 cup): Adds crisp, fresh texture.
- Substitution: Arugula, spinach, or coleslaw mix.
Thinly Sliced Red Onion (½ cup): Provides sharp, crunchy bite.
- Substitution: Pickled onions, green onions, or omit.
Pickles (½ cup, optional): Adds tangy crunch.
- Substitution: Sliced cucumbers or pickled jalapeños.
Fresh Cilantro (chopped, optional): Brings vibrant, herbaceous flavor.
- Substitution: Parsley or green onions.

Why They’re Important: The chicken provides a tender, protein-packed base, while the buttermilk marinade ensures juiciness. The Bang Bang sauce delivers a spicy, sweet, and creamy kick, and the slider buns, lettuce, and onions add crunch and balance. Pickles and cilantro elevate the sliders with tangy, fresh notes, making each bite irresistible.

Advertisements

Step-by-Step Instructions

To adapt the fried Bang Bang Chicken Sliders for the slow cooker, we’ll use the slow cooker to create a tender, flavorful chicken filling with a buttermilk marinade, prepare the Bang Bang sauce separately, and assemble the sliders with toasted buns for texture. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine 1 cup buttermilk, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Cut 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch chunks) suitable for sliders. Add the chicken to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to tenderize and infuse flavor.
- Tip: Cut chicken evenly for consistent cooking. If short on time, marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature. Use a resealable bag for easy marinating.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken

Transfer the chicken and marinade to the slow cooker. Add ¼ cup chicken broth or water to ensure moisture.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken to a bowl and shred with two forks or leave in chunks, depending on preference. Discard excess marinade liquid or reserve for another use (e.g., soup). Set chicken aside to cool slightly.
- Tip: Check doneness early to avoid overcooking. Shred finely for a saucy texture or keep chunkier for bite. A meat thermometer ensures perfect tenderness.

Step 3: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tbsp sriracha sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tsp garlic powder. Mix until smooth.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more sriracha for heat, honey for sweetness, or lime juice for tang. Set aside at room temperature or refrigerate if preparing early.
- Tip: Start with 1 tbsp sriracha for milder flavor and adjust upward. Stir well to ensure a creamy consistency. Double the recipe for extra dipping sauce.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

In a large bowl, toss the shredded or chunked chicken with ½ cup of the Bang Bang sauce until evenly coated. Reserve the remaining sauce for spreading and dipping.
- Tip: Add sauce gradually to avoid oversaucing. Warm the chicken slightly if it’s cold to help the sauce adhere better.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Lightly toast 12 mini slider buns, cut-side down, for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Alternatively, toast in a toaster oven.
- Tip: Brush buns with a thin layer of butter before toasting for extra flavor. Watch closely to avoid burning. Keep warm under a clean towel.

Step 6: Assemble the Sliders

Spread a thin layer of reserved Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
Place a portion of sauced chicken (about 2-3 tbsp) on each bun. Top with 1-2 tbsp shredded lettuce, a few slices of red onion, and 2-3 pickle slices (if using).
Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro (if using) for a burst of freshness. Place the top half of the bun on each slider.
- Tip: Layer toppings neatly for a balanced bite. Press buns gently to secure ingredients. Adjust chicken amount based on bun size.

Step 7: Serve

Arrange the sliders on a serving platter, garnishing the platter with extra cilantro or a drizzle of Bang Bang sauce for a vibrant look.
Serve with remaining Bang Bang sauce in a small bowl for dipping, alongside celery sticks or fries for a complete spread.
Enjoy immediately while the chicken is warm and the buns are toasty for the best texture.
- Tip: Use slider skewers or toothpicks to keep them intact for parties. Warm plates or a platter for a cozy presentation.

Advertisements

Assembly: Serving Your Slow Cooker Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Now it’s time to present this spicy, creamy dish and make it look as good as it tastes! Here’s how to assemble Slow Cooker Bang Bang Chicken Sliders:

Serve the Sliders: Arrange the sliders on a large, colorful platter, slightly overlapping or in rows to showcase the vibrant lettuce, onions, and saucy chicken peeking out. Optionally, angle one slider open to reveal the layers.
Garnish: Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro over the sliders or platter for a fresh, green pop. A drizzle of Bang Bang sauce or a sprinkle of paprika adds a festive touch.
- Presentation Tip: Use a wooden or slate board to evoke a casual, party vibe. A cilantro sprig or a pickle slice on top makes it Instagram-worthy.
Dipping Sauce: Serve extra Bang Bang sauce in a small bowl or ramekin with a spoon, encouraging guests to dip or drizzle. Label the sauce for clarity if offering multiple dips.
Optional Sides: Pair with party-friendly sides like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or cucumber slices to complement the spicy flavors. Serve with soda, iced tea, or a light beer (like a lager) for a complete spread.
Optional Add-Ins: Offer hot sauce, extra pickles, or shredded cheese on the side for customization.

Pro Tip: Serve buffet-style by keeping the chicken warm in the slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting, with toasted buns, toppings, and sauce nearby, letting guests build their own sliders—it’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy this spicy dish, perfect for parties or game days!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Slow Cooker Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are best enjoyed fresh for optimal bun texture and chicken warmth, but leftovers and make-ahead options can be managed with care. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storing Leftovers:
- Store chicken, sauce, toppings, and buns separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate chicken, sauce, and toppings for up to 3 days; store buns at room temperature for 1 day.
- Reheat chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes or a skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes, adding a splash of broth to keep moist. Assemble with fresh buns and toppings.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Chicken: Marinate and slow-cook the chicken up to 2 days ahead. Shred and refrigerate in the sauce to keep moist.
- Sauce: Prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to 5 days ahead and refrigerate. Stir well before using.
- Toppings: Prep lettuce, onions, and pickles up to 24 hours ahead and store in the fridge. Toast buns just before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked, shredded chicken (without sauce or toppings) for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge, reheat, and toss with fresh sauce. Avoid freezing assembled sliders to prevent soggy buns.
Garnishes: Prep cilantro just before serving to keep it vibrant. Store extra sauce or toppings in the fridge for up to a week.

Tip: Use leftover chicken in wraps with lettuce and sauce, as a topping for salads, or in quesadillas for a quick, spicy meal.

Recipe Variations

Slow Cooker Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are highly versatile—here are some fun ways to mix it up:

Extra Spicy Sliders: Increase sriracha to 3 tbsp or add ½ tsp cayenne to the chicken marinade for a fierier kick.
Creamy Ranch Twist: Mix 2 tbsp ranch dressing into the Bang Bang sauce for a cooler, tangier flavor.
BBQ Bang Bang: Replace half the sweet chili sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet-spicy fusion.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns and ensure all sauces (sweet chili, sriracha, Worcestershire) are gluten-free (most are, but check labels).
Low-Carb: Serve the chicken in lettuce cups or over a salad instead of buns for a keto-friendly version.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with crispy tofu, cauliflower florets, or mushrooms, slow-cooked with the marinade for a plant-based slider.

Get creative and make it your own—this recipe loves a little experimentation!

Conclusion

You’re now ready to make Slow Cooker Bang Bang Chicken Sliders that’ll bring bold, spicy flavors to any gathering or meal! This dish is all about tender, slow-cooked chicken drenched in a creamy, tangy Bang Bang sauce, layered with crisp toppings in toasted slider buns. Whether you’re serving it for a game-day party, a family dinner, or a meal-prep session, it’s sure to impress with its vibrant taste and handheld appeal. So grab your slow cooker, whip up that sauce, and let the kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of spicy chicken. Play with variations, customize with your favorite toppings, and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite. Happy cooking!

Bang Bang Chicken

Author: Alyssa

Print Recipe

Description