Picture this: a busy weeknight, the clock ticking, and a craving for something that delivers a punch of flavor without the hassle of takeout. Enter the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich! This delightful creation came to life during one such evening when I longed for a meal that didn’t involve waiting in line at a drive-thru. With each bite, the crispy, spicy chicken melds with a bright and crunchy cabbage slaw, all drizzled with the irresistible bang bang sauce that promises to tantalize your taste buds.
What I love most about this sandwich is its versatility—perfect for a cozy dinner at home or as a showstopper at your next backyard barbecue. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a deliciously satisfying meal that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. So, let’s dive into this easy-to-make sandwich that combines the comfort of home cooking with an explosion of flavor—who says you can’t have a gourmet experience in your own kitchen?
Why is the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich a Must-Try?
Ultimate flavor explosion: The Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich brings together spicy, crispy chicken and a bright, crunchy slaw to create a mouthwatering sensation.
Quick preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this sandwich is ready to serve in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Impressive presentation: It’s not just delicious; the vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, sure to impress family and friends.
Versatile option: Whether for dinner or a festive gathering, this sandwich caters to all occasions effortlessly.
Kid-friendly appeal: Even picky eaters will enjoy the thrilling taste of the bang bang sauce, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied!
For an added twist, consider pairing it with a side of homemade potato fries.
Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Ingredients
For the Slaw
• Red cabbage – adds a crunchy texture and beautiful color to your sandwich.
• Carrot – brings natural sweetness and colorful appeal; feel free to substitute with other veggies like bell peppers.
• Fresh cilantro – imparts a zesty flavor that brightens up the dish, enhancing the overall experience of your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich.
For the Chicken
• Bang bang chicken – use freshly prepared, warm chicken for that irresistible flavor blend.
For the Assembly
• Hamburger buns – opt for toasted buns for a delightful crunch that holds everything together; brioche or whole-grain are great choices.
• Bang bang sauce – the star of the show! Drizzle generously for that kick of flavor that marries all the elements beautifully.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
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Combine the Slaw: In a medium bowl, add the thinly sliced red cabbage, julienned carrot, and chopped cilantro. Pour in ¼ cup of the bang bang sauce and mix well to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly, creating a colorful slaw.
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Layer the Chicken: Take the toasted hamburger buns and place 2-3 warm bang bang chicken tenders on the bottom half of each bun. This sets the stage for a flavor-packed explosion upon the first bite.
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Add the Slaw: Generously spoon about ¼ cup of the vibrant cabbage mixture on top of the chicken tenders. The crunchiness of the slaw will complement the crispy chicken perfectly.
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Drizzle More Sauce: Finish off your creation by drizzling additional bang bang sauce over the cabbage mixture. This adds the perfect balance of spice and creaminess that everyone will love.
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Close the Sandwich: Place the top half of the hamburger bun on each sandwich, gently pressing down to secure all the delicious layers together.
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Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich while it’s fresh and warm. Trust me, it’s best served right away for maximal crunch and flavor.
Optional: For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a squeeze of lime!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can prepare the crunchy slaw and bang bang sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the thinly sliced red cabbage, julienned carrot, chopped cilantro, and ¼ cup of the bang bang sauce in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate to maintain freshness. The chicken can be cooked up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken until warm, layer it on toasted buns, add the slaw, drizzle with more sauce, and enjoy that incredible flavor—just as delicious as if it were freshly made!
Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix things up and make this recipe your own—your taste buds will thank you!
- Gluten-Free Buns: Swap regular buns for gluten-free options to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the slaw for extra heat, exciting your senses with each bite!
- Add Fruits: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple into the slaw for a sweet twist that balances out the savory flavors beautifully.
- Creamier Slaw: Blend in a little mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the slaw for a creamier texture; it makes it even more indulgent!
- Baked Chicken: Try baking the bang bang chicken instead of frying for a healthier version, allowing the seasoning to shine through without the extra calories.
- Vegan Option: Use chickpea or cauliflower “chicken” with vegan bang bang sauce for a delightful plant-based alternative that packs a flavor punch.
- Herb Variations: Swap cilantro for fresh parsley or mint to give your slaw a new flavor profile, adding an unexpected twist to the mix.
- Crunchy Toppings: Top off the sandwich with crispy fried onions or sesame seeds for an added crunch that elevates every bite to new heights!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich?
Picture a lively dinner table, filled with delightful side dishes that elevate your meal while complementing each bite of your sandwich.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These golden fries are a perfect contrast to the spicy chicken, offering sweet flavors and satisfying crunch.
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Tangy Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw brings a refreshing element, balancing the richness of the bang bang sauce and adding extra crunch.
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Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until crispy, these savory sprouts create a wonderful, earthy flavor to enhance your meal.
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Creamy Mac & Cheese: This indulgent side dish provides a comforting creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the spicy kick of the sandwich.
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Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickles or pickled radishes adds a tangy bite that cuts through the richness of the sandwich, keeping your palate refreshed.
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Chilled Lemonade: This refreshing drink brings a citrusy brightness, complementing the flavors of the sandwich beautifully while keeping things cool and vibrant.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm cookies that add a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your dinner.
Mix and match these options for a feast that captures the magic of home cooking!
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
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Room Temperature: Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich fresh for the best flavor. If left out, it’s safe for up to 2 hours, but best consumed immediately.
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Fridge: Store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If possible, keep the slaw separate to maintain the texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked bang bang chicken (without the buns) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Assemble with fresh slaw and buns before serving for a delicious meal.
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
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Prep Ahead: To save time, prepare the slaw and bang bang sauce a day in advance. Store them in the fridge for a more flavorful sandwich.
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Prevent Soggy Buns: Ensure the buns are toasted just before assembly to maintain their crispiness and avoid sogginess from the sauce and slaw.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to add toppings like sliced avocado or crispy onion rings for extra flavor and texture in your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich.
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Maintain Chicken Crispiness: For perfectly crispy chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. This helps ensure even cooking and avoids steaming.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste the slaw mixture and adjust the bang bang sauce according to your preferred spice level before serving.
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Serve with Sides: Pairing your sandwich with a side of coleslaw or sweet potato fries can enhance the meal experience. Enjoy!
Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich Recipe FAQs
What kind of cabbage is best for the slaw?
I recommend using red cabbage for its vibrant color and satisfying crunch, which elevates your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can also mix in some green cabbage or even switch to napa cabbage for a different texture and taste.
How should I store leftovers of the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich?
To preserve the flavor and texture of your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich, store any leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the slaw separate to avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, reassemble with fresh buns and slaw for optimal crunch!
Can I freeze the Bang Bang chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked bang bang chicken (without the buns) for up to 2 months. Here’s how: let the chicken cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
What can I do if my chicken isn’t crispy?
If your chicken tends to get soggy, try the following tips to keep it crispy. First, ensure you’re not overcrowding your frying pan, which can cause steaming instead of frying. Additionally, after frying, place your chicken on a wire rack instead of a plate; this allows air to circulate around the chicken, keeping it crispy. When assembling the sandwich, toast the buns just before assembly for extra crunch!
Is this recipe suitable for kids with allergies?
The Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich contains common allergens like gluten and may include nuts or dairy depending on your sauce. Always check labels and substitute ingredients as needed based on dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, swap out the hamburger buns for gluten-free alternatives and ensure your bang bang sauce is free from gluten-containing ingredients.
Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Yes! Preparing the slaw a day in advance can actually enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will be ready to assemble when you’re set to make your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich. For the best crunch, mix the slaw with the bang bang sauce closer to serving time!
Savory Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich with Crunchy Slaw Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, add the thinly sliced red cabbage, julienned carrot, and chopped cilantro. Pour in ¼ cup of the bang bang sauce and mix well to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly, creating a colorful slaw.
- Take the toasted hamburger buns and place 2-3 warm bang bang chicken tenders on the bottom half of each bun.
- Generously spoon about ¼ cup of the vibrant cabbage mixture on top of the chicken tenders.
- Finish off your creation by drizzling additional bang bang sauce over the cabbage mixture.
- Place the top half of the hamburger bun on each sandwich, gently pressing down to secure all the delicious layers together.
- Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich while it's fresh and warm.