Name: Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/2 cup Sriracha chili sauce; 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons honey, divided; 1/2 cup water; 3 tablespoons lime juice; 2 teaspoons grated lime zest; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 12 mini pretzel buns, split; 12 slices part-skim mozzarella cheese, halved; 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; Coarse salt, optional; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons Sriracha chili sauce; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 2 teaspoons grated lime zest

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for an irresistibly flavorful and fun-to-eat appetizer or snack, Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are exactly what you need. These little bundles pack tender shredded chicken bathed in a spicy-sweet sauce, melted mozzarella, and a zesty kick from lime and Sriracha, all tucked inside perfectly soft pretzel buns. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a craving for something bold and comforting, Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders deliver layers of excitement in every bite that you won’t soon forget.

Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each bringing their own magic to build the vibrant flavors and inviting textures of Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. From the juicy chicken thighs to the tangy lime zest, every element plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect slider experience.

Boneless skinless chicken thighs (3 pounds): The tender, juicy base for your sliders that soaks up all the delicious sauce flavors.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons, divided): Used for browning the chicken and brushing the buns for a golden finish.
Ketchup (1/2 cup): Adds a bit of sweetness and depth to the sauce blend.
Sriracha chili sauce (1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons): Provides the spicy heat that defines the bang bang flavor profile.
Honey (1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons, divided): Balances the spice with a gentle floral sweetness and helps create a shiny glaze.
Water (1/2 cup): Helps create the perfect sauce consistency for cooking the chicken tenderly.
Lime juice (3 tablespoons plus 2 tablespoons for sauce): Brings fresh acidity and brightness that lifts all the flavors.
Grated lime zest (2 teaspoons plus 2 teaspoons for sauce): Adds aromatic citrus oils for a zesty punch.
Minced garlic (2 teaspoons): Injects savory depth and warmth into the sauce.
Ground ginger (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of spice and exotic warmth to the flavor mix.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle heat enhancer to complement the rest of the spices.
Mini pretzel buns (12, split): Offer a soft, slightly salty vessel that perfectly holds the bold filling.
Part-skim mozzarella cheese (12 slices, halved): Melts beautifully over the chicken for cheesy gooeyness.
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon): Adds an extra fiery kick on the bun tops.
Coarse salt (optional): Sprinkled on top for a crunchy, savory finish.
Green onions (2, chopped): For fresh color and a mild onion bite to garnish.
Reduced-fat mayonnaise (1 cup) – for dipping sauce: Creamy base that cools and complements the spicy sliders.

How to Make Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Step 1: Brown the Chicken

Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the chicken thighs for about 5 minutes, allowing the outside to develop a lightly crispy, golden surface. This step locks in the juices and starts building the rich flavor foundation for your sliders.

Step 2: Prepare and Simmer the Sauce

While the chicken browns, whisk together ketchup, Sriracha, 1/2 cup honey, water, lime juice and zest, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Pour this vibrant sauce mixture over the browned chicken, then bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken becomes tender enough to shred. After removing the chicken, simmer the sauce alone for another 5 minutes until it thickens—this intensifies the flavor and coats the chicken beautifully.

Step 3: Shred and Toss the Chicken

Using two forks, shred the tender chicken into bite-sized pieces right in the pot. Toss the shredded meat with the thickened sauce so that every shred is juicy and packed with flavor. This step guarantees that each slider bite is soaked in that signature bang bang goodness.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish and arrange the bottom halves of the pretzel buns inside. Place half a slice of mozzarella cheese on each bun bottom to form a melty barrier. Spoon a generous amount of the sauced chicken over the cheese, then top with the remaining halves of mozzarella. Finish assembling by placing the bun tops over the cheese. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons honey, and crushed red pepper flakes; brush this glaze onto the tops of the buns for that irresistible shine and subtle spicy sweetness. Sprinkle with coarse salt if desired.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the assembled sliders for 10 to 15 minutes until the buns are golden and the cheese is perfectly melted. Once out of the oven, garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, crisp contrast and a pop of color.

How to Serve Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders

Garnishes

Sprinkling fresh chopped green onions over the sliders adds a lovely crunch and a hint of mild sharpness that beautifully offsets the rich, sweet-spicy chicken. For a touch more heat, a few extra crushed red pepper flakes can be added on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

These sliders pair wonderfully with simple side dishes like crispy sweet potato fries or a light, crisp cucumber salad. The coolness and freshness of these sides balance out the warm, bold spices defining Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders. Crunchy coleslaw with a tangy dressing is another excellent complement that refreshes the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve these sliders on a wooden board garnished with lime wedges and fresh herbs to invite guests to build their own perfect bite. You can also add a topping station with extra Sriracha-lime dipping sauce and pickled jalapeños for bold flavor customization. Presenting them in a colorful, festive way enhances the fun and indulgence of Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the dipping sauce separate to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess in the buns.

Freezing

You can freeze the fully assembled sliders before baking by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if needed.

Reheating

Reheat sliders in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the buns may become soggy. Serve with fresh green onions and dipping sauce to revive their best flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and tenderness, but boneless skinless chicken breasts will work if that’s what you have on hand. Just be careful not to overcook them to keep the sliders moist.

How spicy are Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders?

These sliders offer medium heat thanks to the balance of Sriracha and red pepper flakes, brightened by lime. The honey and ketchup help mellow the spice, so it’s approachable even if you’re not a huge fan of spice.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated. This actually allows the flavors to deepen and meld nicely making your sliders even more flavorful when assembled.

What if I can’t find mini pretzel buns?

Mini brioche or soft slider buns are excellent substitutes if pretzel buns aren’t available. While pretzel buns add a signature salty touch, other soft buns will still hold the saucy chicken beautifully.

Is the dipping sauce necessary?

While the sliders are delicious on their own, the Sriracha-lime dipping sauce adds a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy chicken, enhancing every bite. It’s definitely worth making to complete the experience!

Final Thoughts

Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a hands-down favorite that bring bold flavor and fun to any table. They’re perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging in a satisfying snack full of spice, sweetness, and cheesy goodness. Once you try these sliders, they’ll quickly become your go-to recipe whenever you’re craving something exciting, comforting, and downright delicious. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and whip up these sliders that are truly bursting with personality and joy!

Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 25 reviews

Author: Elara
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 sliders 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

Jimmy’s Bang Bang Chicken Sliders are a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors wrapped in soft mini pretzel buns. Tender shredded chicken thighs are simmered in a vibrant sauce made with Sriracha, honey, lime, and garlic, then baked with melting mozzarella cheese. Finished with a zesty sriracha-lime dipping sauce, these sliders make a crowd-pleasing appetizer or fun meal for any occasion.

Instructions

Brown the chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and brown on all sides for about 5 minutes to develop flavor.
Prepare and simmer sauce: While browning chicken, mix ketchup, Sriracha chili sauce, 1/2 cup honey, water, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, ground ginger, and pepper in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the browned chicken in the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until chicken is tender, about 25 to 30 minutes.
Reduce sauce and shred chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot. Bring the remaining sauce back to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Shred the chicken using two forks and toss it with the reduced sauce to coat evenly.
Assemble sliders: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish. Place the bottom halves of the pretzel buns in the dish. Add half a slice of mozzarella cheese on each bun, then spoon the sauced chicken over the cheese. Top each with the remaining cheese slices and close the sliders with the top buns.
Prepare glaze and bake: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons honey, and crushed red pepper flakes. Brush this glaze evenly over the tops of the buns. Optionally, sprinkle coarse salt on top. Bake sliders in the oven until the buns are golden and cheese is melted, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Garnish and prepare dipping sauce: Remove sliders from oven and garnish with chopped green onions. To make the dipping sauce, combine the reduced-fat mayonnaise, Sriracha chili sauce, lime juice, and lime zest in a bowl and stir well.
Serve: Serve sliders hot alongside the sriracha-lime dipping sauce for extra flavor and spice.

Notes

Use part-skim mozzarella for a balance of gooeyness and less fat.
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control spiciness on the buns.
Simmering the sauce after removing chicken intensifies the flavor and helps it cling well to the shredded meat.
Mini pretzel buns add a unique salty contrast, but slider buns or small sandwich rolls can be substituted.
The dipping sauce complements the sliders with creamy heat and citrusy brightness.
Make sure to shred the chicken finely for easy assembling and better texture.
For a gluten-free version, substitute mini pretzel buns with gluten-free slider buns.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Simmering, Baking
Cuisine: American