Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are juicy bites of chicken on a stick, coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that’s totally addicting! They’re perfect for a backyard BBQ or a fun snack.
These skewers are super easy to make, and honestly, who doesn’t love food on a stick? I often serve them with some crunchy veggies for a tasty meal that feels fancy without the work!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs give juicy flavor, but chicken breasts work too. For a twist, try shrimp or firm tofu for a vegetarian option!
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can switch to Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a dairy-free version.
Sweet Chili Sauce: If you can’t find sweet chili sauce, a mix of honey with a bit of hot sauce works well to mimic the sweetness and spice. Adjust to your taste!
Sriracha: This adds heat! You can use any hot sauce you enjoy, or for a milder flavor, try some smoked paprika instead. If you love spicy, go ahead and add more!
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder and ground ginger can substitute. Just reduce the amounts slightly since they’re quite concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked on the Grill?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but keeping an eye on the temperature is key to juicy skewers. Here’s what you should do:
- Marinate your chicken well to add moisture; a fridge time of 30 mins to 2 hours helps flavor and tenderness.
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps sear the chicken quickly, locking in juices.
- Turn the skewers every few minutes to cook evenly and get nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Trust me, no one likes dry chicken! Keeping the cooking time in check and paying attention to heat will result in delicious, juicy flavors. Enjoy your grilling!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Other:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. You’ll also need an additional 12-15 minutes for grilling. All in all, expect to spend around 1 hour before you can enjoy your delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well to ensure all the chicken is seasoned. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, and lime juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is your tasty Bang Bang sauce! Reserve half of this sauce for serving later.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Add the remaining half of the Bang Bang sauce to the chicken. Toss everything together, making sure each piece of chicken is well coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you want even more flavor. Yum!
4. Preheat the Grill:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to avoid burning on the grill. Meanwhile, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready to cook the chicken.
5. Skewer the Chicken:
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. This will help them grill nicely!
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You want to get those lovely grill marks and ensure the chicken is cooked through. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) to be safe.
7. Serve:
Carefully remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle them with the reserved Bang Bang sauce. If you like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with any extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for thighs in this recipe. Just keep in mind that breasts may cook faster, so watch them closely to ensure they don’t dry out. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Is There a Substitute for Mayonnaise?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option or have a mayonnaise allergy, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt or a mixture of sour cream and a bit of mustard for a similar creamy texture. Adjust the seasonings to taste since these alternatives may alter the flavor slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through. You can add a dash of the Bang Bang sauce to revive the flavor!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce a day or two in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Give it a good stir before serving, as some ingredients might separate.
