These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that adds a zing to every bite.
They’re perfect for grilling or baking, making them easy for any day. I love serving them with a cool dip to balance the spice—it’s a hit at parties!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is perfect for skewers. You can swap it for thigh meat for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure it’s cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking!
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or a plant-based mayo can work well too.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is key for sweetness and a touch of heat. If you’re short on it, a mix of honey and a little vinegar can mimic the taste but might lack the same texture.
Sriracha: Use less if you prefer milder heat or try a different hot sauce you love. You could also omit it for a non-spicy version if you’re feeding kids or those who don’t like the heat!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice enhances flavor. When limes aren’t available, lemon juice works as a good substitute.
Garlic & Ginger Powder: These give depth to your marinade. Fresh garlic and ginger would be even better! Just use about a teaspoon of each, minced.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked on the Skewers?
Getting the chicken just right on the skewers is crucial. Here’s how to do it:
- First, be sure to let your chicken marinate! The longer, the better, to let those flavors soak in.
- Preheat the grill or grill pan properly to medium-high heat. This helps achieve those nice grill marks.
- When grilling, make sure to leave some space between pieces. This allows the chicken to cook evenly.
- Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally. Look for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Finally, brush on that reserved sauce right at the end of grilling for an extra punch of flavor!
With these tips, your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will be juicy and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and another 10 minutes for grilling. If you choose to marinate the chicken, it’s best to plan for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to prevent them from burning on the grill.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and a little pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well! Save about half of this tasty sauce for later; you’ll use it for dipping later.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl with the sauce and toss everything together to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you can, refrigerate it for up to 4 hours—that’ll make the flavors even better!
4. Preheat and Thread:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once ready, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes. Turn them occasionally to make sure the chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks. Keep an eye on them!
6. Brush and Garnish:
During the last minute of grilling, brush the cooked skewers with the reserved sauce to add an extra boost of flavor. Once done, remove the skewers from the grill, sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness, and serve right away!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with any remaining sauce on the side for dipping. Dig in and enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Different Proteins for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be aware that cooking times may vary. Shrimp usually cooks quicker, about 4-6 minutes, while beef may need a bit longer depending on the cut.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise. Both will give you creamy texture and flavor without the extra calories found in regular mayo.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, grill them lightly or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
What if I Don’t Have Sweet Chili Sauce?
No problem! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts honey and soy sauce with a dash of red pepper flakes for heat, or simply use a combination of ketchup and sugar as an alternative. Adjust to taste for the right sweetness and heat!
