Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are fun and tasty bites! Juicy chicken pieces are seasoned and grilled on skewers, then dipped in a creamy, spicy sauce that adds a kick.
These skewers are perfect for a party or a cozy night in! I love serving them with crispy veggies or even rice. They always disappear fast – can you blame them? 🥡
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe calls for chicken breast, which is tender and cooks quickly. You can substitute it with chicken thighs for a juicier option or even firm tofu for a vegetarian alternative.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is key for the creamy Bang Bang sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt or an avocado spread. Both will give a nice creaminess.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce adds sweetness and a bit of spice. If you can’t find it, mixing honey with hot sauce can work in a pinch, or you can use a homemade sweet and spicy sauce.
Sriracha: Adjust the Sriracha based on your spice preference. If you want less heat, try using ketchup mixed with a little bit of hot sauce for a milder version.
Olive Oil: While olive oil is great for grilling, avocado oil is another excellent choice due to its high smoke point. You can also use melted coconut oil for a unique flavor twist.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked on the Grill?
Grilling chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here are some steps to ensure it turns out great:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. A hot surface helps sear the chicken quickly.
- Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking, making it easier to turn your skewers.
- Ensure the chicken pieces are of uniform size for even cooking. If they’re all about the same size, they’ll grill at the same rate.
- Check for doneness by using a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain moisture and improves the flavor.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and 10-12 minutes for grilling. Plus, it’s great to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time, to soak up all that delicious flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and lime juice. Stir well until everything is nicely combined to form your tasty Bang Bang sauce.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Reserve about 1/4 cup of the Bang Bang sauce in a separate bowl for later use. Add the chicken pieces to the remaining sauce in the mixing bowl and toss well so all the pieces are coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for even better flavor.
3. Prepare and Grill the Skewers:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Take the marinated chicken pieces and thread them onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Serve and Enjoy!
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the reserved Bang Bang sauce over the skewers or serve it on the side as a delicious dip. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and prepare for a wonderful meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly: shrimp will cook faster (about 5-7 minutes), while beef may require a longer grilling time to reach your desired doneness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add more Sriracha to the marinade or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the skewers before grilling. You can also marinate the chicken in additional chili sauce for a bolder flavor!
Can I Prepare the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover them and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. Make sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even grilling.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the grill or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. To keep them moist, cover with foil while reheating. Enjoy!
