Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are super tasty bites of juicy chicken coated in a spicy sauce. They are perfect for grilling and make a great snack or meal for any gathering!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip these up! I often make enough to have leftovers but let’s be real, they rarely last that long. Who can resist that spicy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture. You can also use cubed tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Mayonnaise: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, swap it for Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a plant-based alternative. I often use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist!
Sweet Chili Sauce: If you can’t find sweet chili sauce, a mix of ketchup and a bit of sugar can work in a pinch. Adjust the sweetness based on your preference. Some people even like adding a splash of soy sauce for extra flavor!
Sriracha: This adds a kick! You can adjust the amount to your spice level or replace it with any hot sauce you enjoy. If you want something milder, try using red pepper flakes.
Fresh Parsley: While it’s a lovely garnish, you could substitute it with chopped green onions or cilantro for a different flavor. I love how cilantro adds a fresh touch to the dish!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken skewers evenly and thoroughly is essential. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always preheat your grill or grill pan. A hot surface helps to sear the chicken and lock in juices.
- Make sure to marinate the chicken long enough—at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours gives better flavor.
- When threading chicken onto skewers, don’t overcrowd them. This allows the heat to circulate and cook everything evenly.
- Turn the skewers occasionally while grilling to ensure all sides get that beautiful char, usually about every 4 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.
With these tips, your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will be juicy and flavorful every time!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (you can even go up to 2 hours if you want more flavor). You’ll spend another 10-12 minutes grilling the skewers for a total of about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with a whisk or spoon until everything is nicely blended. This is your delicious Bang Bang sauce!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Set aside about 1/4 cup of the sauce for later use. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the remaining sauce in the bowl. Stir well to ensure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will make it even tastier!
3. Grill the Skewers:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Once the grill is hot, place the skewers on the grill.
4. Cooking the Chicken:
Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and get those nice grill marks. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Drizzle them with the reserved Bang Bang sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness to your skewers. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Adjust the grilling time slightly if the pieces are larger, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. Both will provide a creamy texture while maintaining a delicious flavor. Just keep in mind that the tanginess will slightly differ, especially with Greek yogurt.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or heat them gently on a skillet, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The Bang Bang sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier for your skewers!
