These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are super tasty and fun to make! Marinated chicken pieces are grilled to perfection and smothered in a creamy, spicy sauce. Yummy!
I love serving these skewers at parties! They disappear fast, and who can resist that finger-licking sauce? Grab a napkin, you might need it! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite for their tenderness and flavor, but chicken breasts work too. If you need a lighter option, consider using turkey or even firm tofu for a plant-based choice.
Sauces: The blend of sweet chili sauce and sriracha brings the bang! If you want it less spicy, reduce the sriracha or swap it with chili garlic sauce. For a gluten-free diet, switch soy sauce for tamari.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the marinade. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute for a tangy flavor. Some even prefer ranch dressing for an extra twist!
Ginger & Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic boost the flavor a lot! If you’re short on time, you can use ground ginger and garlic powder, but fresh is always better when you can get it.
How Do You Get the Chicken Skewers Nice and Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken skewers is marinating. The marinade not only flavors the chicken but also helps keep it moist during grilling. Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes; however, letting it sit for up to 4 hours maximizes the flavor.
- Mix the marinade thoroughly to coat all the chicken pieces.
- Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge while you prepare the skewers and grill.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave some space for even cooking.
- Grill over medium-high heat to achieve that tasty char without drying it out.
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How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Marinade and Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Grill the skewers for about 12 minutes, making the total time around 1 hour, including marinating. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until everything is smooth and well-combined. This will be your flavorful marinade and sauce!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Pour half of the marinade over the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Toss them well to make sure all the chicken is coated in the delicious sauce. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you have the time for more intense flavor.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or stove-top grill pan to medium-high heat. Once the chicken is done marinating, carefully thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, packing them close together but not too tight. This way, they cook evenly!
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally so they develop a nice char and cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Drizzle the reserved Bang Bang sauce over the skewers, or serve it on the side for a delicious dipping option. Finally, sprinkle chopped green onions and cilantro on top for a fresh touch!
Enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work just as well, but they can be a bit drier than thighs. To keep them moist, avoid overcooking them, and consider marinating for the full 4 hours if you can.
What if I Don’t Have Bamboo Skewers?
No worries! You can use metal skewers if you have them; just ensure they are soaked in water if they are stainless steel to prevent food from sticking. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken pieces on a grill pan directly without skewers.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance, up to 4 hours before grilling. You can also prepare the sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using!
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back on the grill for a few minutes or use a microwave until warmed through. Enjoy!
