This Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich combines crispy, spicy chicken tenders with a slaw of red cabbage, carrots, and cilantro, all topped with bang bang sauce on toasted buns. It’s a little bit of heat, sweetness, and crunch with a whole lot of flavor in each deliciously messy bite! This sandwich is inspired by my Bang Bang Chicken and my Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!

Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches in a pan on a wooden table from overhead.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Slaw: The slaw is made with just four ingredients–red cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and Bang Bang sauce. It adds color, flavor, and a nice crunch to each bite. If mixing the slaw ahead of time, wait until assembling the sandwich to add the bang bang sauce.

Bang Bang Sauce: Bang Bang sauce is both sweet and spicy. For the most flavor, make homemade sauce. Or, use store-bought.

Chicken: I have the perfect Bang Bang chicken recipe for this sandwich: crispy chicken tenders tossed in Bang Bang sauce. You could also use frozen chicken tenders. If using frozen tenders, cook them according to package instructions. Then, toss in bang bang sauce.

Hamburger Buns: Look for your favorite kind of hamburger buns. I prefer them toasted for this sandwich. If your toaster can fit the hamburger buns, use that to toast them. Or, spread some butter on the buns and toast for 1-2 minutes in a skillet, cut side down.

Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches on a plate on a wooden table close up.

Can I Make The Sandwich With Grilled Chicken?

Yes, for a healthier alternative, you can use grilled chicken instead of fried chicken. Season boneless, skinless chicken breasts with your favorite seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also brush it with some bang bang sauce for added flavor before grilling. Once cooked, assemble the sandwich with the grilled chicken!

Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich with crispy chicken covered in Bang Bang Sauce and topped with slaw close up.

Are Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches Spicy?

The spiciness of the Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich depends on the recipe for the Bang Bang sauce and personal preference. Generally, bang bang sauce is known for its sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy flavor. The heat comes from ingredients like Sriracha, which you can adjust (add more or use less) to reach your desired spice level. If serving the sandwiches to guests, serve the sauce separately. Then, let them add as much bang bang sauce as they prefer.

What To Serve With A Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich

Serve side dishes that are simple, yet satisfying to complement the hearty sandwiches. Here are some delicious options:

Air Fryer French Fries
Onion Rings
Homemade Potato Chips
Roasted Potato Salad (Seriously, the best potato salad recipe that you will want to try!)
Macaroni and Cheese
Fresh Fruit
Grilled Corn on the Cob

Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich with crispy chicken covered in Bang Bang Sauce and topped with slaw close up and cut in half to show tender chicken.

How To Store Bang Bang Chicken Sandwiches

Although best served fresh, you can store leftovers, but store each part of the sandwich separately. The slaw can be mixed (without the bang bang sauce) and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. Bang bang sauce can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week. As for the bang bang chicken, let cool completely. Next, wrap the chicken in aluminum foil. Store the chicken in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

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