I have to say, after making this Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich, I think I’ve reached the peak of sandwich creations. The crispy, slightly spicy chicken, the sweet crunch of the slaw, and the drizzle of tangy bang bang sauce all come together perfectly in soft, toasted buns.
It’s ridiculously flavorful and just messy enough to be fun. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll be making this on repeat for family dinners or weekend indulgences. For a unique twist, you might also enjoy trying The Best Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe as a lighter alternative.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into making this masterpiece. Each ingredient plays its part to create layers of flavor and texture.
- 2 cups (140g) thinly sliced red cabbage
Adds a vibrant color and satisfying crunch to the sandwich. - 1 large carrot, julienned
Brings a touch of sweetness that balances the heat of the sauce. - ¼ cup (15g) freshly chopped cilantro
Offers freshness and a hint of herby brightness to the slaw. - 1 recipe Bang Bang Sauce
This sweet, spicy, and creamy homemade sauce sets the tone for the sandwich. Store-bought versions work if you’re short on time. - 1 recipe Bang Bang fried chicken (or 4-6 breaded chicken tenders)
Nothing beats homemade crispy chicken. But, frozen tenders can work in a pinch (just toss them in sauce after cooking). - 4 hamburger buns, toasted
Toasting elevates the sandwich. Butter and toast the buns in a skillet for a golden, crispy edge.
Note:
This recipe serves four hearty sandwiches, perfect for a family meal or a small weekend gathering.
Variations to Suit Your Style
There are so many ways to customize this sandwich. Here are a few options to match your tastes or dietary needs:
- Grilled Chicken: For a healthier option, use grilled chicken breasts. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for maximum flavor.
- Dairy-Free: The slaw and sauce are already dairy-free, so just pick dairy-free buns.
- Extra Heat: Add a touch of cayenne or sliced jalapeños to the slaw for more spice.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken and slaw in large lettuce wraps instead of buns for a satisfying low-carb alternative.
- Sweet Twist: Mix a little honey into your Bang Bang Sauce for extra sweetness.
For a fun and crispy side, consider making Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips to complement the sandwich.
Cooking Time
This Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is quicker than you’d think. Here’s the breakdown:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
Perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is of the essence!
Equipment You Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the process smooth and hassle-free:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the slaw ingredients.
- Knife & Cutting Board: To prepare the cabbage, carrots, and cilantro.
- Toaster or Skillet: To perfectly toast the buns.
- Tongs: For flipping and assembling the chicken.
- Serving Platter: Helps you serve these beauties in style.
How to Make a Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
This recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these simple steps to create your perfect sandwich.
Step 1: Prepare the Slaw
Start with the slaw, which provides the crunch and freshness. Mix the red cabbage, carrots, and cilantro in a bowl. Drizzle in ¼ cup of Bang Bang Sauce and toss well to coat. Set this aside while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Get the Chicken Ready
If you’re making your chicken from scratch, go with crispy fried tenders for an authentic feel. Already-made tenders? Heat them according to the package, then toss them generously in Bang Bang Sauce. Trust me, warm, sauce-drenched chicken is a game-changer.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
A good toasted bun is non-negotiable here. Spread a little butter on the cut sides of each bun and toast them on a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes. The slight crunch makes a big difference in texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Now for the fun part! Start with the bottom half of the toasted buns. Layer on 2-3 pieces of warm Bang Bang chicken. Pile some of the slaw on top, and drizzle a little extra Bang Bang Sauce for good measure. Finish with the top bun and press down lightly to hold everything together.
Step 5: Serve Fresh
Serve the sandwiches immediately while the chicken is still crispy, and the buns are warm. Pair with your favorite sides (see below for ideas!).
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Here’s what I learned while making this recipe, and I think it’ll help you too:
- Use fresh, homemade Bang Bang Sauce. The flavors are unmatched compared to store-bought.
- Don’t assemble too far ahead of time. The slaw and sauce can make the sandwich soggy if it sits too long.
- Marinate the chicken tenders beforehand for extra juiciness and flavor.
- When toasting buns, add a sprinkle of garlic or onion powder to the butter for added depth.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
Presentation is key when serving these sandwiches. You can keep it simple or elevate it slightly to impress:
- Serve with a small side of extra Bang Bang Sauce for dipping.
- Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh cilantro for visual appeal.
- Pair the sandwich with crunchy sides like onion rings, air-fried fries, or a simple roasted potato salad.
Nutritional Information
Each sandwich is a satisfying and indulgent meal. Here’s the nutritional breakdown:
- Calories: 696
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fat: 27g
How to Store the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich
Though it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare parts of the sandwich ahead of time and store them separately.
- Slaw: Store in an airtight container in the fridge, but don’t add the sauce until just before serving. It’ll stay fresh for 2-3 days.
- Bang Bang Sauce: Keep this in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week.
- Chicken: Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
- Buns: Toast just before serving. Reheated buns lose their toasty crunch, so they’re best made fresh.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sandwich will quickly become a household favorite. Here’s why:
- Unbeatable Flavor: It’s saucy, crispy, tangy, and spicy all in one bite.
- Easy Customization: Adapt it for any dietary need or flavor preference.
- Quick to Make: From start to finish, it takes just over 30 minutes.
- Kid-Friendly: Make it less spicy, and even picky eaters will love it!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
FAQs
Is Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich spicy?
The heat level depends on the Bang Bang Sauce. Adjust the Sriracha to make it milder or hotter to suit your preference.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Absolutely! Just bake or fry them as instructed on the package. Toss them in the sauce before assembling the sandwich.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Don’t assemble the sandwich until you’re ready to eat. Keeping the slaw and Bang Bang Sauce separate until serving can help too.
Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the buns for gluten-free options, and ensure the chicken breading is gluten-free too.