These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are juicy pieces of chicken on a stick, coated in a creamy and spicy sauce that’s hard to resist! They’re perfect for a fun meal or snack.
Whenever I make these, I can’t help but laugh at how quickly they disappear. Trust me, everyone will want to grab one (or two!). They’re great with rice or a fresh salad!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are tender and cook evenly. You can also swap in chicken thighs for a juicier option or even use shrimp or tofu for a great alternative for a different flavor and texture.
Mayonnaise: This gives the sauce a creamy base. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well too. For a vegan alternative, use plant-based mayonnaise.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds a lovely sweetness and tang. If you can’t find it, a mix of honey and some rice vinegar can mimic the flavor. Adjust the sweetness based on your taste!
Sriracha: I love the kick it adds! You can reduce the amount if you prefer less heat or use another hot sauce like Sambal Oelek. For a milder option, use a chili garlic sauce instead.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice will do the job nicely. Just remember it has a different flavor, so use a bit less.
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Grilled Chicken Skewers?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but following these tips will help you get perfect results every time:
- Soak your bamboo skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat; this helps the chicken cook evenly and get those great grill marks.
- Don’t crowd the skewers; space the chicken pieces out for better heat circulation. This ensures even cooking.
- Turn the skewers every few minutes to cook the chicken on all sides and prevent sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C).
With these tips, your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are sure to impress your family and friends!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes before use)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and requires an additional 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. For the best flavor, you can let the chicken marinate overnight. Cooking on the grill will take about 10-12 minutes. So, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour total, including marination time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nicely blended. This will be your delicious bang bang sauce. Set it aside for later.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take another bowl and add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Pour half of the bang bang sauce over the chicken, saving the other half for later. Toss the chicken pieces until they are fully coated with the sauce. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it sit overnight will make it even tastier!
3. Prepare to Grill:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, take the soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers; you can fit 3-4 pieces per skewer.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Once your grill is hot, place the chicken skewers on it. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and has those beautiful grill marks.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When the skewers are finished cooking, remove them from the grill and drizzle the reserved bang bang sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy with any extra sauce on the side for dipping. Happy eating!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and moisture to the skewers. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through than breasts.
What If I Don’t Have Sweet Chili Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of honey and soy sauce, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat if desired. This will give you a similar sweetness and tanginess typical of sweet chili sauce.
How Can I Store Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for quicker reheating, but be mindful of drying them out.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the bang bang sauce up to a week in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before using it to re-emulsify the ingredients.
