Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy pieces of chicken are marinated and grilled on skewers, then tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that packs a punch.
The best part? They’re perfect for parties or a cozy night in. I love serving these with fresh veggies or dipping sauces. Just be ready for some finger-licking goodness! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the star here. It’s lean and tender. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier bite, or even shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile.
Mayonnaise: This ingredient gives richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute. It adds creaminess with fewer calories and a bit of tangy flavor.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce provides sweetness and a mild kick. If unavailable, you could blend honey with a little hot sauce as a quick substitute or use BBQ sauce for a different flavor twist.
Sriracha: Adjust this to fit your spice level. If you find it too spicy, try a milder hot sauce or even a dash of paprika for flavor without the heat.
How Do I Ensure Even Cooking on the Skewers?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken on skewers is all about spacing and temperature. Here’s how to make sure your skewers turn out great:
- Keep a little space between the chicken pieces when threading them onto skewers. This helps with even cooking and allows the chicken to get that nice char.
- Preheat your grill well! A hot grill creates great grill marks and keeps the chicken from sticking.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F. This ensures it’s cooked through without being dried out.
- Let the skewers rest after grilling for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for tender, juicy chicken.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers, soaked in water if wooden
- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to 2 hours for marinating the chicken. Don’t forget to allow about 10-12 minutes for grilling. Total time can vary depending on how long you choose to marinate.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it well until everything is combined nicely. This sauce will be both your marinade and the dipping sauce!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take half of your yummy sauce and set it aside in the refrigerator for later. Now, add the chicken pieces to the other half of the marinade. Make sure every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you want a more intense flavor.
3. Prepare to Grill:
Once you’re ready, fire up your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, just heat it on the stove over medium heat. While the grill is heating up, take your marinated chicken out of the fridge.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers. Leave a little space between each piece to ensure they cook evenly. Have fun with it!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally to get those lovely grill marks and cook the chicken evenly. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once grilled, take the skewers off the heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with the reserved sauce for dipping, and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe. They will add a bit more flavor and juiciness. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, so check that they reach 165°F as well.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist. If you’re looking for a lighter option, using a combination of these alternatives will also give you a creamy texture without losing flavor.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also enjoy them cold in salads!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance! Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use it, simply add the chicken and let marinate as directed.
