These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are juicy pieces of chicken on sticks, coated in a creamy and spicy sauce that packs a punch! Perfect for a fun dinner or a snack at a party.
Making these skewers is a blast! I love to serve them with extra sauce for dipping—it’s like a little flavor party in my mouth. Who can resist that? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Fresh boneless chicken breast works great for skewers. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken thighs. They have more flavor and remain juicy when grilled.
Greek Yogurt: This provides creaminess and tang. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using dairy-free yogurt or unsweetened cashew or almond yogurt for a similar texture without the dairy.
Sriracha: It’s spicy and adds depth. For a milder taste, you can swap it with chili paste or leave it out altogether if you prefer a non-spicy version.
Honey: It’s optional for sweetness. Maple syrup or agave syrup can work as substitutes if you’re vegan or want a different flavor profile.
Skewers: Wooden skewers need soaking in water to prevent burning. You can also use metal skewers for convenience—no soaking required!
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Marinated and Grilled?
Marinating the chicken not only adds flavor but also keeps it moist. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl until smooth. This includes Greek yogurt, mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Be sure to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes; 2 hours is even better for deeper flavors!
- When grilling, make sure your chicken pieces aren’t too close together on the skewer. This allows for even cooking and nice grill marks.
- Keep the grill at a consistent medium-high heat. Flip the skewers halfway through cooking to ensure they’re overly charred on one side.
Letting the skewers rest for a couple of minutes before serving helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier bite!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade and Sauce:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey (optional for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a marinating time of at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you have the time). The grilling will take another 10-12 minutes. Overall, you’re looking at about 50 minutes to 2 hours for the full process, depending on how long you marinate the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade and Sauce:
Start by grabbing a medium-sized bowl. In this bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, minced garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, honey (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth. This wonderful mix will both marinate the chicken and serve as your sauce later!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take half of the delicious sauce and set it aside for later. Now, add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the remaining sauce. Toss the chicken well so it’s all coated. Cover the bowl with some plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or if you can wait, up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill or grill pan ready! Preheat it over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, make sure it’s clean and lightly oiled to keep your chicken from sticking.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken is well-marinated, take the soaked skewer sticks and thread the pieces of chicken onto them. Leave a tiny bit of space between each piece so they cook evenly. It’s like making a tasty kabob!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the heated grill. Grill the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them to be fully cooked and have those lovely grill marks. To be safe, make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Let Them Rest:
Once your chicken skewers are done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps them stay juicy.
7. Serve with Sauce and Garnish:
Before serving, drizzle the reserved sauce over your skewers or put it in a little bowl as a delicious dipping sauce. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch.
8. Enjoy!
Now, dig in! Enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with your favorite side dishes or a refreshing salad. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier and more flavorful result. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces similar to the chicken breast for even cooking. The marinating time can remain the same.
How to Make This Dish Spicier?
For extra heat, you can increase the amount of sriracha in the marinade. Alternatively, you could add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mix for an additional kick. Adjust the spice to suit your taste!
Can I Prepare the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can marinate the chicken up to 2 hours in advance. If you want to prep even earlier, just assemble the skewers without cooking and keep them covered in the fridge for up to a day. Just grill them before serving and you’re good to go!
What Should I Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with jasmine rice, a refreshing salad, or grilled veggies. You could also serve them with noodle dishes for a complete meal. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
