Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are grilled on skewers and coated with a creamy, spicy sauce that packs a punch. Perfect for gatherings!
Once I make these, they’re usually gone in minutes! 😄 They’re great with fresh veggies or rice on the side. Just remember to keep a napkin handy—things can get a little saucy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breast for tenderness. However, thighs work beautifully if you prefer darker meat. They add a richer flavor to the skewers.
Mayonnaise: This forms the base of the bang bang sauce and keeps the chicken moist. For a lighter option, you can try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo if you’re looking for plant-based alternatives.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This gives a delightful sweetness with a hint of spice. If you can’t find it, a mix of honey and soy sauce can work as a simple alternative. Adjust the proportions to taste!
Sriracha Sauce: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If sriracha is too spicy for you, try using a mild hot sauce or even a spicy ketchup for a different flavor profile.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These add depth to the sauce. Fresh garlic and finely diced onions can be substitutes, but be cautious as they can intensify the flavor. Use about a clove and a tablespoon of fresh onion if needed.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Moist and Flavorful?
Marinating is key to achieving juicy and flavor-packed chicken skewers. Start by mixing the bang bang sauce ingredients well. Letting the chicken soak in this mixture for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors deeply infuse.
- Reserve some sauce upfront for drizzling later. This adds a fresh boost of flavor after grilling.
- When threading the chicken onto skewers, leave a little space between each piece. This allows hot air to circulate, cooking the chicken evenly.
- Make sure to grill the skewers on medium-high heat. Too hot can char the outside without cooking the inside. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Lastly, allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes off the grill. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping them moist when you bite in. Enjoy their flavorful goodness!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (or up to 2 hours if you want more flavor). Cooking the skewers on the grill will take about 10-12 minutes. In total, you’re looking at roughly an hour from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This sauce is what makes your chicken so yummy! Save about 1/4 cup of this sauce for drizzling later. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them well to make sure every piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to soak up those delicious flavors.
2. Soak Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This will help prevent them from burning while grilling. Metal skewers don’t need soaking, so you can skip this step if you have those!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the skewers cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken is marinated, thread the pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece so they cook evenly. It’s okay to get a bit creative here; you can even alternate with veggies or pineapple if desired!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and develop a nice char. You’ll know they are done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and looks golden brown.
6. Serve:
Once cooked, take the skewers off the grill and drizzle your reserved bang bang sauce over the top. This adds an extra kick of flavor!
7. Enjoy:
Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro. Feel free to offer some more of that delicious sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and give a juicier result. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly; thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to grill thoroughly due to their higher fat content.
What If I Don’t Have Sweet Chili Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts honey and ketchup, then adding a splash of vinegar for tang. This will give you a similar sweetness and flavor profile for your marinade.
How Long Can 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, place them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil if needed to prevent sticking.
Can I Bake the Chicken Instead of Grilling?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden color.
