Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are juicy pieces of chicken covered in a yummy, spicy sauce. The skewers make them perfect for grilling or baking, adding a lovely char to the outside!
These tasty bites are a hit at my family gatherings. I always end up with an empty plate! Try serving them with a side of fresh veggies to balance the heat—so good! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness. If you only have chicken breasts, that’s fine too! Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the marinade. If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt can substitute well, adding a tangy flavor while keeping it creamy.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find it, you can make a quick version with sugar, vinegar, and a bit of hot sauce. But really, sweet chili sauce is worth having on hand.
Sriracha: Adjust this to whatever heat level you prefer. If sriracha isn’t available, try using hot sauce or even chili garlic sauce for a similar kick.
Fresh Herbs: I like using parsley or cilantro for garnish as they add a pop of color and flavor. You can also go with green onions if that’s what you have!
How Do I Grill Chicken Skewers Without Them Sticking?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky if they stick to the grill. One big tip here is to properly preheat your grill and oil the grates. Here’s a simple process:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Just before placing the skewers, take a paper towel, dip it in vegetable oil, and use tongs to wipe the grill grates.
- Thread your marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving space to ensure even cooking.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. If you notice the skewers sticking, give them a gentle twist to release before turning.
Following this technique helps avoid the “stuck” moments, ensuring perfectly grilled chicken every time!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breast), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for grilling)
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for at least 30 minutes)
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. If you have extra time, marinating overnight will give the chicken even more flavor. Once the chicken is on the grill, it will take around 10-14 minutes to cook.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium-sized bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nicely mixed. This will be the tasty marinade that will give the chicken lots of flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the bowl with the marinade, making sure each piece is covered well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, try to leave it for 2 hours or even overnight for the best taste.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to get the grill ready. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. To keep the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates using the vegetable oil.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to skewer! Take the marinated chicken pieces and thread them onto the skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly; leave a little space between pieces to help them cook evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place your skewers on the hot grill and let them cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is fully cooked and has beautiful grill marks on it. For an extra burst of flavor, baste the skewers with some leftover marinade during the last few minutes of grilling.
6. Prepare the Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, you can make an extra sauce for dipping. Just mix a little more sweet chili sauce with sriracha in a small bowl for a delicious side sauce!
7. Serve:
Once the chicken skewers are fully cooked, carefully remove them from the grill. Garnish with some chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve with your tasty dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just keep in mind that breasts may cook faster, so check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for perfect doneness.
How Spicy Can I Adjust the Recipe?
You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste! If you want less heat, reduce the sriracha or omit it entirely. For extra spicy skewers, add more sriracha or even some chopped fresh chilies to the marinade.
How Should I Store Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or briefly microwave them, being cautious not to dry them out.
Can I Use a Different Type of Skewer?
Yes, you can use metal skewers or soaked bamboo skewers. If you do use bamboo, soaking them for at least 30 minutes beforehand prevents them from burning on the grill. Alternatively, grill the chicken directly on a grill basket if you prefer no skewers!
