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Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
What Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a deliciously bold and spicy dish, combining tender chicken with a fiery, creamy sauce that’s packed with flavor. The skewers themselves are typically made by marinating chunks of chicken in a blend of spices, then skewering them and grilling or roasting to perfection. The key to their name, Bang Bang, lies in the sauce—rich, spicy, and just a touch sweet, it provides a delightful kick that leaves you craving more.
The sauce for Bang Bang Chicken is usually made from a mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, which together create a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy elements. This sauce is drizzled generously over the grilled chicken or served as a dip, enhancing the flavors of the dish. It’s a versatile recipe, perfect for serving as a party appetizer, a quick weeknight meal, or even as a satisfying addition to your barbecue menu.
The dish has become quite popular in many kitchens, especially among those who enjoy bold, flavorful food with a hint of spice. Whether you’re looking to spice up your dinner or want a crowd-pleasing snack, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are sure to impress. With its tantalizing sauce and perfectly cooked chicken, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite.
Looking for a delicious sauce to pair with your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers? Check out this Guajillo Sauce Recipe for a smoky, flavorful twist!
Key Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
To create the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that come together to bring out the bold flavors. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:
- Chicken Breast or Thighs: The base of the skewers, chicken is often used in chunks or strips, depending on your preference. Chicken breasts are lean and tender, while chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Both options work wonderfully in this dish.
- Marinade Ingredients: The chicken is marinated to enhance flavor before grilling. Common ingredients for the marinade include:
- Garlic for a savory depth of flavor.
- Soy sauce for saltiness and umami.
- Olive oil to help tenderize the chicken and keep it juicy.
- Lemon juice or lime juice for a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the dish.
- Bang Bang Sauce: The star of the show, this creamy yet spicy sauce is what makes the dish unforgettable. The sauce typically includes:
- Mayonnaise for a creamy texture.
- Sweet chili sauce for sweetness and a mild heat.
- Sriracha sauce for an extra spicy kick.
- Honey or sugar to balance out the spiciness with a hint of sweetness.
- Skewers: Bamboo or metal skewers are used to thread the marinated chicken pieces. Bamboo is often preferred for its lightweight nature and ease of use.
These key ingredients combine to create a flavorful, satisfying dish that packs a punch, both in terms of taste and texture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Creating Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is simple and straightforward, making it a great option for any occasion. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve perfectly grilled skewers with a creamy, spicy finish.
- Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and fit easily onto the skewers. If you prefer a juicier option, chicken thighs are a great choice. - Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Toss the chicken pieces in this marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. If you have more time, marinate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor penetration. - Prepare the Skewers
While the chicken is marinating, soak your bamboo skewers in water for about 20 minutes. This prevents them from burning during grilling. If using metal skewers, you can skip this step. - Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and honey. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha. Once smooth and well-mixed, set aside. - Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to allow for even cooking. - Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. - Serve and Coat with Sauce
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle them generously with the Bang Bang sauce. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Now, enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, packed with spicy, creamy goodness!
Pro Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
To make sure your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips:
- Choose the Right Chicken
For juicier skewers, opt for chicken thighs rather than breasts. Thighs have more fat, which keeps them tender and flavorful. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work just as well. - Don’t Overmarinate
While marinating is essential for flavor, avoid marinating the chicken for too long (over 2 hours). The acidity in the marinade can break down the meat, resulting in a mushy texture. - Use a Grill or Grill Pan
Grilling adds that perfect smoky flavor to your skewers. If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a grill pan on medium-high heat will achieve similar results. Make sure the pan is well-heated to get those beautiful grill marks. - Make the Sauce Ahead
For extra convenience, prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time. It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, allowing the flavors to meld together. - Serve with Garnishes
Add fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice to bring even more vibrancy and freshness to the dish.
With these pro tips, you’ll master the art of making irresistible Bang Bang Chicken Skewers every time.
Storing and Reheating Guide
To keep your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers fresh and delicious for later, proper storage and reheating techniques are essential.
- Storing Leftovers
Once your skewers have cooled to room temperature, store them in an airtight container. Place the skewers in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you have leftover Bang Bang sauce, store it separately in a small container in the fridge to prevent it from soaking into the chicken. - Freezing for Longer Storage
If you want to store the skewers for a longer period, you can freeze them. Wrap each skewer individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. The skewers will stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. To prevent the sauce from separating, store it separately in a sealed container. - Reheating
To reheat, you have a few options:- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and heat for 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
- Grill or Grill Pan: Reheat on a preheated grill for about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Microwave: If you’re short on time, microwave the skewers for 1-2 minutes. However, the texture may be slightly different.
Reheat the Bang Bang sauce separately for the best flavor and consistency.
Why You Will Love Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a perfect combination of bold flavors and simplicity, making them a dish you’ll keep coming back to. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, preparing a weeknight dinner, or grilling for a barbecue, these skewers deliver both taste and convenience. The tender chicken, marinated to perfection, pairs wonderfully with the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, creating a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and spicy.
One of the best things about Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is their versatility. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences, making them as mild or fiery as you like. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, so even on busy days, you can enjoy a satisfying meal with minimal effort.
The fact that they can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or even a fun snack makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The grilled, smoky flavor of the chicken adds depth, while the sauce brings that irresistible creaminess and heat.
Once you try Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you’ll quickly understand why they’ve become a favorite in kitchens everywhere. With the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and spice, this dish is sure to win over your taste buds every time.
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Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are coated with a creamy, spicy sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. A perfect appetizer or main dish that combines bold flavors and smoky grilled goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha sauce (or more, for heat)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- 1 lime (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to make the marinade.
- Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Let it marinate for 1-2 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, ensuring an even distribution.
- Grill the skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle with extra Bang Bang sauce (if desired).
- Garnish with sesame seeds, cilantro, and lime wedges before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it.
- Substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a leaner option.
- Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less sriracha.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
Keywords: Bang Bang Chicken, Grilled Chicken Skewers, Spicy Chicken, Easy Chicken Skewers, Asian Chicken Skewers, Chicken Skewers Recipe
FAQ:
Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even pork. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the protein you choose. For shrimp, for example, they will cook much faster than chicken, so adjust your grilling time accordingly.
To make the Bang Bang sauce less spicy, simply reduce the amount of sriracha or replace it with a milder hot sauce. You can also add more mayonnaise or a little honey to balance out the heat without losing the flavor.
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge. You can also make the Bang Bang sauce up to a week ahead and store it in an airtight container. When ready to cook, simply assemble the skewers and grill them as usual.