Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are all about fun and flavor! These tasty chicken pieces are grilled on sticks and coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that adds a little kick.
Perfect for parties or a casual dinner, they’re great on their own or served with veggies. I love pairing them with some rice or a fresh salad to balance the spice—so good! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is great for skewers since it cooks quickly and stays tender. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re avoiding mayo, try Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or a dairy-free substitute like vegan mayo for a similar texture.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce provides a delicious sweetness. If you can’t find sweet chili sauce, you can mix honey with ketchup or use a homemade sweet chili recipe with sugar, vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
Sriracha: Sriracha adds a kick! If you prefer less heat, adjust the amount or use a milder hot sauce. You can also leave it out if you want a completely non-spicy version.
Lime Juice: Lime juice brightens up the flavors. Lemon juice is a good substitute if you’re out of limes, or even apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken skewers cooked just right is key. Start by marinating the chicken, as this helps deepen the flavor and keep it juicy. Make sure the pieces are even in size for uniform cooking.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This helps to create those lovely char marks.
- Cook the skewers for about 6-8 minutes on each side. Flip only once to let them brown well.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Finally, let them rest after grilling. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Other:
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Then, you’ll need around 15 minutes for grilling. In total, expect to spend about 60 minutes from preparation to serving these delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until smooth and well combined. This will give your chicken a flavor-packed marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take half of the marinade and reserve it for dipping later. Add the chicken pieces to the remaining marinade and toss to coat all the pieces well. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For more flavor, you can leave it for up to 2 hours!
3. Prep the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken cooks quickly and gets those lovely grill marks.
4. Skewer and Grill the Chicken:
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers; a little space helps them cook evenly. Grill the skewers for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and forms nice char marks. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers warm with the reserved dipping sauce on the side, and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, try using shrimp or firm tofu, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier or Milder?
If you want to amp up the spice, add more sriracha to the marinade, or even include a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha or use a sweet chili sauce without added heat. Just taste as you go to find your perfect balance!
Can I Prepare the Chicken Skewers in Advance?
You sure can! Marinate the chicken a day ahead for deeper flavors, then thread them on skewers when you’re ready to grill. Just keep them covered and refrigerated until you’re ready to cook for the best results.
How Should I Store Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, being careful not to dry out the chicken. You can also enjoy them cold in salads or wraps!
