The summer sun was setting, casting a warm glow over my backyard as the enticing aroma of marinated chicken skewers sizzled on the grill. You know those magical moments when the simplest ingredients come together to create something extraordinary? That’s how I felt when I first tried these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. With their spicy, tangy sauce and tender, juicy meat, they have since become a staple at every gathering. Perfectly portable for picnics or easy enough for a weeknight dinner, these skewers are a delicious solution for anyone tired of the same old meals.
Whether you’re hosting friends for a backyard barbecue or treating your family to something a little different, these flavor-packed skewers are sure to impress. Made with just a handful of ingredients, they offer a delightful combination of spice and sweetness that will have everyone reaching for seconds. So grab your skewers, and let’s bring some excitement to the dinner table with this easy, quick meal that promises to satisfy your cravings!
Why will you love Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Irresistible Flavor Burst: Each skewer is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that packs a punch, combining tanginess with heat for a mouthwatering experience.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and grill time, you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, these skewers are always a hit, leaving guests clamoring for the recipe.
Versatile Pairing: Serve these skewers with a fresh salad, or pair with rice for a complete meal that satisfies every palate.
Dare to Experiment: Don’t hesitate to mix things up with your favorite veggies or dipping sauces to make this dish uniquely yours! For more delightful variations, check out my tips on customizing your favorite skewers, and let your culinary creativity shine!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Ingredients
• Get ready for a flavor explosion!
For the Chicken Marinade
- Chicken Breast – Cut into bite-sized pieces; tender and perfect for skewering.
- Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness and depth; use a low-sodium variety for a lighter touch.
- Garlic – Minced for a fragrant flavor boost; fresh is best but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Creamy base for the sauce; Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweetness and a hint of heat; feel free to adjust to taste.
- Sriracha – For the perfect spicy kick; adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
For Skewering
- Skewers – Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent burning.
With these simple ingredients, your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will be a hit at any gathering!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
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Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with soy sauce and minced garlic, ensuring all the chicken is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
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Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 15-20 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. This step ensures your skewers hold up well while cooking.
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Thread the Chicken: Once marinated, carefully thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Aim for 4-5 pieces per skewer for a hearty bite!
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Mix the Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha, mixing thoroughly until smooth. Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less Sriracha.
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Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Cook the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skewers from the grill and brush them generously with Bang Bang sauce. Serve immediately, and don’t forget to save some sauce for dipping!
Optional: Sprinkle with chopped scallions for an extra touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Room Temperature: Allow the skewers to cool completely before storing. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours, perfect for serving at gatherings.
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore that fresh-off-the-grill taste!
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Looking for the perfect accompaniments to elevate your meal experience?
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Crispy Asian Slaw: The crunchy vegetables and tangy dressing will provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy skewers. It’s a light, zesty side that perfectly complements the rich flavors.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice acts as a neutral base, soaking up the delicious Bang Bang sauce. Its delicately fragrant aroma pairs wonderfully with the skewers, keeping every bite balanced.
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Grilled Pineapple: Sweet, caramelized pineapple bursts with flavor and adds a tropical twist. The sweetness cuts through the spice, creating a delightful fusion of tastes that will entice your taste buds.
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Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with sesame dressing lends a crisp texture and fresh flavor. It’s refreshing and hydrates the palate, making it a lovely counterpoint to the hearty skewers.
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Egg Fried Rice: Sautéed rice with eggs, peas, and carrots offers a savory, comforting side that’s filling yet deliciously uncomplicated. It complements the Bang Bang Chicken nicely, turning your meal into a feast.
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Thai Iced Tea: A creamy and sweetened tea drink balances the heat from the sauce beautifully. This iced tea’s unique flavor profile makes it an excellent pairing for a sultry summer evening.
With these complementary dishes, your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will shine even brighter on the table!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
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Marinating Time: Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate, enhancing the overall taste of your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.
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Avoid Overcrowding: When threading chicken on the skewers, leave space between pieces for even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to unevenly cooked chicken.
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Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium heat. A grill that’s too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
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Sauce Adjustment: Feel free to modify the spice level of your Bang Bang sauce. Taste as you go, especially when adding Sriracha, to achieve your ideal heat.
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Visual Cues: Look for nice grill marks and a slight char on the chicken. This visual cue indicates that your skewers are perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor!
Variations & Substitutions for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Feel free to tweak this scrumptious recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences!
- Nut-Free: Replace mayonnaise with tahini or a homemade cashew cream for a creamy yet nut-free sauce.
- Spicy Twist: Add minced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.
- Veggie Delight: Skewer colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms alongside the chicken for a vibrant veggie mix.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep the flavor while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the Bang Bang sauce for a refreshing twist.
- Sweet Alternative: For a sweeter glaze, mix honey or agave syrup into the bang bang sauce to balance the spice.
- ** Creamy Vegan:** Swap mayonnaise with avocado or silken tofu blended until smooth for a plant-based version.
- Pineapple Pairing: Add pineapple chunks to your skewers for a delightful sweet and savory combination that’s truly tropical.
Embrace the joy of cooking by experimenting with these variations to create a version that feels just right for you!
Make Ahead Options
These 4-Ingredient Gluten-Free Chocolate Oat Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while enjoying a delicious treat! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing together the oats, cocoa powder, peanut butter, and honey, then refrigerating the mixture to maintain its quality and freshness. If you prefer to shape the cookies early, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, flatten them slightly, and cover the tray tightly with plastic wrap. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time. When you’re ready to indulge, simply bake them for 10-12 minutes, and you’ll have warm, chewy cookies just like freshly made!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Absolutely, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces for the best texture. They cook quickly and stay tender on the grill. You could also use chicken thighs if you prefer richer flavor, just remember they need a minute or two longer to cook through.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Great question! Allow the skewers to cool completely before storing them. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to eat them later on, you can also freeze them! Just freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
Certainly! You can marinate the chicken the night before, which helps intensify the flavor. Just cover the bowl with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. You can also assemble the skewers in advance, then refrigerate them until ready to grill. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce for the Bang Bang sauce?
No problem at all! If you’re out of sweet chili sauce, you can create a quick substitute by mixing a bit of honey or brown sugar with hot sauce and a splash of soy sauce. This will provide a sweet and spicy kick without sacrificing flavor. Just adjust the sweetness and spice to your liking!
How do I know when my chicken skewers are done?
Very good question! Look for a nice golden-brown color and grill marks on the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, cut into a piece: the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.
Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers suitable for kids?
Yes, they can be! The sweetness from the Bang Bang sauce typically appeals to younger taste buds, but you might want to control the amount of Sriracha you add to keep it mild. You can always serve the sauce on the side for dipping, allowing little ones to customize their own flavor experience!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: A Spicy, Finger-Lickin’ Treat!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with soy sauce and minced garlic, ensuring all the chicken is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 15-20 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Once marinated, carefully thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha, mixing thoroughly until smooth.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat. Cook the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and brush them generously with Bang Bang sauce. Serve immediately.
