Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are grilled treats that pack a flavorful punch! Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that makes every bite exciting.
These skewers are perfect for grilling season! I love serving them at parties—everyone can’t get enough! Just remember to have extra napkins ready because they can get a little messy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but they might be a bit drier. Also, turkey thighs could work as a leaner option.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the marinade. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It gives a nice tang and is healthier!
Sweet Chili Sauce: This brings sweetness and a bit of spice. If you can’t find it, you can use a mix of honey and sriracha to achieve a similar flavor balance.
Sriracha: This sauce adds heat. If you want something milder, you could use hot sauce or even red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to your liking!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. In a pinch, lemon juice works too, but lime adds that unique flavor.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for the Best Flavor?
Marinating chicken is essential for adding flavor, and here’s how to do it effectively:
- Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl, ensuring it’s well mixed.
- Add the chicken pieces, making sure each piece is fully coated.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for 2 hours in the fridge.
- Cover the dish to avoid contamination and to keep aromas in!
Don’t skip this step; it transforms your dish! Plus, always remember to reserve some marinade to use as a dipping sauce later on.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 8-10 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. If you have the time, letting the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator will enhance the flavor. Cooking on the grill will take about 12-16 minutes. Overall, you’ll need around 1 hour to 2 hours including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. Remember to set aside a little portion of the marinade for serving later!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to your marinade. Make sure each piece is coated thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you want even more flavor, let it marinate for up to 2 hours!
3. Grill the Skewers:
Once your chicken has marinated, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, take the soaked wooden skewers and carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto each skewer.
4. Cooking Time:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has those beautiful grill marks. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
5. Finishing Touches:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and brush them with any remaining marinade for extra flavor. It’s a great way to make them shine!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers warm, garnished with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Don’t forget to place the reserved dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind that they may dry out more easily than thighs due to lower fat content. To prevent this, avoid overcooking and consider brining the breasts beforehand to lock in moisture.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 2 days ahead of time and store it in the fridge! Just give it a good stir before adding the chicken. This can save you time on busier days.
What’s the Best Way to Soak the Skewers?
Soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning on the grill. You can also use a heavy-duty aluminum foil to wrap around the ends of the skewers for extra protection.
How to Store Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or grill briefly until heated through. They make a great addition to salads or wraps too!
