These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are grilled on sticks and tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that gives them a zing!
Making these skewers is super easy, and they pack a big flavor punch. I love to serve them at parties or for a casual dinner—everyone keeps coming back for more! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken breasts work too, though they may be a bit drier. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian version!
Mayonnaise: This ingredient provides creaminess. If you want a lighter option, try Greek yogurt instead. It adds a tangy taste while keeping the sauce rich.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This brings sweetness and a mild kick. If you don’t have it, you can combine ketchup with a little sugar or honey for a similar effect.
Sriracha: I love adding sriracha for an extra kick. You can adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If it’s too spicy, try using a milder hot sauce or even omit it for less heat.
Garnishes: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions add a pop of color and flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, substitute with parsley or just skip it entirely.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy on Skewers?
The key to juicy chicken skewers is marinating. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you can, aim for 2 hours to really let those flavors soak in!
- Make sure the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Leave some space between pieces on the skewers; this helps them cook evenly, giving you that perfect char without drying out.
- When grilling, check the internal temperature. Ideal is 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety and juiciness.
Let the chicken rest after grilling. This lets the juices redistribute, making for tender bites. Happy grilling!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Serving:
- Chopped green onions or cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken, plus 10-12 minutes for grilling. Plan for around 1 hour total if you include marinating time. It’s simple and perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, garlic powder, onion powder, soy sauce, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is combined to create your delicious Bang Bang sauce. Remember to set aside about 1/3 of the sauce for serving later!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the remaining marinade. Make sure each piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours if you want extra flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will help give your skewers nice grill marks and a great flavor when cooking.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the pieces onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking. This helps them cook through just right!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally to get that nice golden-brown color all around. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Let Them Rest:
Once the chicken is done, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with the reserved sauce. You can also add some chopped green onions or cilantro on top for a fresh touch and serve lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast is a great substitute for thighs, though it may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on it while grilling. Just ensure it still reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
What if I Don’t Have Sweet Chili Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts honey and soy sauce, or use a combination of hoisin sauce and a bit of hot sauce for added heat. Adjust the sweetness and spice levels according to your taste!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Definitely! Marinating the chicken overnight will actually deepen the flavors even more. Just make sure to cover it well in the refrigerator to keep it safe and fresh.
How to Store Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, making sure not to overcook them. Add a little splash of water if they seem dry while reheating.
