These Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are full of flavor and super fun to eat! Just juicy chicken pieces on a stick, coated with a spicy and creamy sauce that brings a kick!
They’re perfect for dipping, and who doesn’t love food on a stick? 🎉 I like to serve them with extra sauce on the side for a little extra oomph. You won’t be able to stop munching!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juiciness, but breasts work too. If you’re looking to save time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken cut into pieces can be a great shortcut!
Mayonnaise: This is key for creaminess. If you want a lighter version, try Greek yogurt. It gives a similar texture with added protein.
Sweet Chili Sauce: If you don’t have this on hand, a mix of sugar, hot sauce, and a little water can mimic the flavor. Just adjust the sweetness to your taste. You can also use any store-bought spicy sauce if you want an alternative kick!
Sriracha: Adjust the amount based on how spicy you want it. If sriracha isn’t available, try any hot sauce or even a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for adding flavor and moisture. Even a short 15-20 minutes will help! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix your marinade well, ensuring the chicken is fully coated.
- For even juicier chicken, consider brining your chicken in a simple saltwater solution for an hour before marinating.
- When cooking, avoid crowding the pan or grill; this helps achieve a good sear without steaming the chicken.
Brush with additional bang bang sauce towards the end for that amazing flavor and glaze! Serve right away for the best experience.
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8-10 wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For The Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2-3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste for heat)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or olive oil
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, sesame seeds
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes for cooking, making it a quick and delightful dish to whip up. If you decide to marinate the chicken (which I recommend), add an additional 15-20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and minced garlic until smooth. This delicious sauce will be used for both marinating the chicken and serving. Set aside about 1/4 cup of this sauce for later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In another bowl, add the chicken pieces, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Pour in about 1 tablespoon of the bang bang sauce and toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. If you have time, let it marinate for 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavor.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Take your soaked skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them, about 4-5 pieces per skewer. This is a fun step—get creative!
4. Cook the Skewers:
Heat the oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skewers in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown, cooked through, and has nice grill marks. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
5. Glaze the Skewers:
During the last minute of cooking, brush the remaining bang bang sauce over the skewers for an extra burst of flavor. Yum!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the skewers from the heat and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle with the reserved bang bang sauce and sprinkle with any of the optional garnishes like sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, or sesame seeds. Serve warm and dig in!
These skewers make a fantastic appetizer, a fun party snack, or a quick treat served alongside rice or salad. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually juicier and more flavorful, making them a fantastic option for these skewers. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I Make Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the bang bang sauce in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, ideally adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Use Different Proteins or Vegetables?
Definitely! You can use shrimp, beef, or even firm tofu as a substitute for chicken. Additionally, you can thread veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or onion onto the skewers for a colorful and nutritious option!
