Bang Bang Sliders (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 1/2 pounds thin chicken breasts.
02 - 1/2 cup flour.
03 - 1/4 cup cornstarch.
04 - 1 cup buttermilk.
05 - 1 tablespoon hot sauce.
06 - 1 large egg.
07 - 2 cups panko breadcrumbs.
08 - 12 mozzarella slices.
09 - 12 slider rolls.
10 - Vegetable oil for frying.
11 - Kosher salt.
12 - Black pepper.
13 - Garlic powder.
14 - Bang bang sauce.

# Instructions:

01 - Season chicken breasts thoroughly with kosher salt, fresh black pepper and garlic powder on both sides, ensuring even coverage.
02 - Create breading station by mixing flour and cornstarch in first bowl, combining buttermilk, hot sauce and egg in second bowl.
03 - Place panko breadcrumbs in third bowl, spreading them out evenly for easier coating of chicken pieces.
04 - Dredge seasoned chicken first in flour mixture, being sure to tap off excess to prevent clumping in next steps.
05 - Dip floured chicken into buttermilk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off completely before next coating.
06 - Press chicken firmly into panko breadcrumbs, ensuring complete and even coating on all sides.
07 - Heat thin layer of vegetable oil in large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
08 - Carefully place breaded cutlets in hot oil without overcrowding, working in batches if necessary.
09 - Cook chicken 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
10 - Transfer cooked cutlets to paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
11 - Prepare bang bang sauce according to recipe, whisking ingredients until completely smooth.
12 - Cut warm chicken cutlets to fit slider buns, maintaining portion size for each sandwich.
13 - Place chicken pieces on bottom buns while still hot enough to melt cheese.
14 - Top each chicken piece with mozzarella slice, allowing residual heat to soften cheese.
15 - Drizzle generous amount of room temperature bang bang sauce over cheese before adding top buns.

# Notes:

01 - Make ahead friendly.
02 - Perfect party food.
03 - Quick preparation.
04 - Crispy and creamy.