Prepare to fall in love with the irresistible flavor explosion that is Bang Bang Chicken Skewers! Tender, juicy chicken is grilled to smoky perfection and slathered with a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce that will have you licking your fingers clean. These skewers are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just treating yourself to something special. With bold flavors, simple ingredients, and an incredibly quick cook time, this recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite for effortless entertaining or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Every component plays its own special role, from the creamy richness of the sauce to the smoky char of the chicken. Here’s exactly what you need and why you’ll love it:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1½ pounds, cut into 1.5-inch cubes): Thighs are juicy and stay tender on the grill, making every bite flavorful and moist.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Coats the chicken for even seasoning and helps it char beautifully on the grill.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a mellow punch of savory flavor without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Offers subtle sweetness and depth, complementing the vibrant sauce.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Gives the chicken a lovely warm color and a hint of smoky earthiness.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors in every mouthwatering bite.
- Wooden or metal skewers: If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them so they don’t burn; metal is reusable and fuss-free.
- Mayonnaise (½ cup): The creamy base that binds the Bang Bang sauce and gives it luscious texture.
- Sweet chili sauce (2 tablespoons): Balances sweetness and gentle heat, making the sauce truly addictive.
- Sriracha (1 tablespoon, adjust to taste): Adds a customizable kick, perfect for anyone who loves a little spice.
- Honey (1 tablespoon): A touch of honey smooths out the heat and rounds out the flavors.
- Rice vinegar (1 teaspoon): Just a splash provides that necessary tang, brightening up the sauce beautifully.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Soak Wooden Skewers (If Using)
If you’re using wooden skewers, give them a nice soak in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This simple step keeps them from burning or catching fire on the grill—plus it gives you time to prep the rest of the recipe!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a large bowl, toss your chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every little piece is fully coated so each bite is equally seasoned. This step builds the flavorful foundation that makes Bang Bang Chicken Skewers so crave-worthy.
Step 3: Thread Chicken onto Skewers
After seasoning, thread your chicken cubes onto the skewers, packing them just close enough to keep them juicy but with a bit of space for even grilling. This process is wonderfully hands-on and actually quite fun—feel free to get your family or friends involved!
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Arrange the skewers in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for chicken that’s cooked through and beautifully charred at the edges. Don’t wander too far—these cook up fast!
Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While your chicken develops those gorgeous grill marks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Stir until luscious and smooth. Taste and tweak the Sriracha to match your spice preferences.
Step 6: Sauce and Serve
Once your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are grilled to perfection, generously brush or drizzle them with the sauce while still warm. Set out extra sauce on the side, because trust me, people will want to dip!
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions, a shower of sesame seeds, or even a handful of fresh cilantro right before serving. These final touches add delightful pops of color and extra flavor, making your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers impossible to resist.
Side Dishes
Bursting with flavor, these skewers go with just about anything! Serve over warm jasmine rice, next to a crisp Asian slaw, or tuck into lettuce wraps for a fresh, low-carb option. Roasted veggies, cucumber salad, or classic potato wedges also make delicious sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange Bang Bang Chicken Skewers upright in a serving glass lined with lettuce leaves, or lay them out on a colorful platter with little bowls of extra sauce. At picnics, wrap each skewer in parchment paper for easy, grab-and-go bites that stay saucy and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, just pop them (sauce and all) into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They hold up beautifully and the flavors get even more delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken skewers (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Let them cool, wrap tightly, and store in a freezer-safe bag. Just whip up fresh Bang Bang sauce when you’re ready to enjoy them again for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place skewers in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also heat them gently in a skillet or even pop them in the microwave for a quick fix. Drizzle with fresh sauce before serving to revive that signature zing!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works well for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep a close eye while grilling, as breast meat cooks faster and can dry out more quickly than thighs.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe as written is gluten-free; just double-check the labels on your sweet chili sauce and Sriracha to ensure there’s no hidden gluten if you have sensitivities.
How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
The spice level is totally customizable! Start with the suggested amount of Sriracha and add more if you like a bolder kick, or scale back for a milder, family-friendly version.
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake the skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a 425°F oven for about 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly crisp at the edges.
How far in advance can I make the Bang Bang sauce?
The Bang Bang sauce keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make it ahead and store in a covered jar or bowl, ready to go whenever you need a flavor-packed sauce boost.
Final Thoughts
Give these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers a try—and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making them again and again! They’re quick, totally customizable, and bursting with that signature sweet-heat flavor everyone loves. Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and let these saucy skewers steal the show at your next meal!
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Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and spicy Asian-inspired dish that is perfect for grilling. Tender chicken thighs are marinated, grilled to perfection, and then drizzled with a creamy and spicy Bang Bang sauce.
Ingredients
Chicken Skewers:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions
- Prep the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Toss chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Thread onto skewers.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill skewers for 4 to 5 minutes per side until cooked through and charred.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth.
- Finish and Serve: Brush or drizzle cooked skewers with Bang Bang sauce. Serve warm with extra sauce for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast.
- Skewers can be served over rice, salad, or in lettuce wraps.
- The Bang Bang sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers with sauce
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
