Get ready to fire up the flavor with these irresistible Bang Bang Chicken Skewers! Juicy, tender chicken is grilled to perfection and coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce that packs just the right punch. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, looking for a fun appetizer, or spicing up your dinner routine, these skewers are a must-try. Quick to prep and even quicker to disappear—this dish is bold, fun, and bursting with flavor in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a game-changer for busy nights. They come together in no time, making them perfect for those evenings when you’re juggling work and family. The combination of tender chicken and a zesty sauce creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re versatile enough to suit any palate, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will be satisfied!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers a hit. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish! Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Olive oil: This helps to keep the chicken moist and adds a lovely richness.
Garlic powder: A must-have for that aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
Onion powder: It complements the garlic and adds depth to the marinade.
Smoked paprika: This gives a subtle smokiness that enhances the grilled flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
Wooden skewers: Soaked in water to prevent burning on the grill. They hold everything together!
Mayonnaise: The base of the bang bang sauce, providing creaminess.
Sweet chili sauce: Adds a delightful sweetness that balances the heat.
Sriracha: Adjust this to your spice preference for that extra kick!
Lime juice: Freshens up the sauce and adds a zesty brightness.
Chopped green onions: For garnish, they add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
For those looking to make substitutions, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist. You can also add colorful vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers for extra flavor and nutrition. The exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print out!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken cubes in a large bowl. Add olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated. Marinating is crucial; it infuses the chicken with flavor and keeps it juicy. Let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper taste.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This step is essential for even cooking. A hot grill ensures those beautiful grill marks and helps seal in the juices, making your chicken tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Once marinated, it’s time to thread the chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers. Leave a little space between each piece; this allows for even cooking and helps the heat circulate. You can also add colorful veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition!
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has those lovely grill marks. Trust me, the aroma will be irresistible!
Step 5: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is grilling, whip up the bang bang sauce. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Adjust the sriracha to your spice preference. This sauce is the perfect balance of creamy and spicy, elevating your skewers to a whole new level!
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the chicken skewers are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them drizzled with the bang bang sauce and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a pop of color. Your family and friends will be impressed!
Tips for Success
Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor—up to 2 hours is ideal.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
Experiment with different spices in the marinade for a unique twist.
Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each skewer space for even cooking.
Equipment Needed
Grill or Grill Pan: A standard outdoor grill works best, but a stovetop grill pan is a great alternative.
Wooden Skewers: If you don’t have these, metal skewers are reusable and perfect for grilling.
Mixing Bowl: Any large bowl will do for marinating the chicken.
Meat Thermometer: This ensures your chicken is cooked safely; a simple kitchen thermometer works too.
Variations
Spicy Bang Bang: Add more sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinating them the same way for a delicious plant-based version.
Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the marinade for a fresh twist.
Fruit-Infused: Add pineapple or mango chunks to the skewers for a sweet and savory combination.
Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and ingredients are certified gluten-free for a safe option.
Serving Suggestions
Fresh Salad: Pair the skewers with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the bang bang sauce.
Cold Beverages: Enjoy with iced tea or a light white wine for a delightful meal.
Presentation: Arrange skewers on a platter and drizzle extra sauce for an eye-catching display.
FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to grill, it’ll be packed with flavor!
What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, rice, or even grilled vegetables. They’re versatile enough to complement any side dish!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or on the grill for best results.
Can I use other proteins for this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even firm tofu for a delicious twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is the Bang Bang sauce spicy?
The sauce has a nice kick from the sriracha, but you can easily adjust the spice level. Add more or less sriracha to suit your taste!
Final Thoughts
Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is more than just cooking; it’s about creating joyful moments around the dinner table. The aroma of grilled chicken mingling with the spicy bang bang sauce fills the air, making everyone eager to dig in. I love how this dish brings my family together, sparking laughter and conversation. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, even on the busiest days. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family night, these skewers are sure to impress. Trust me, once you serve them, they’ll become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a delicious and flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served with a spicy bang bang sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon lime juice
Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked 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 cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the bang bang sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a small bowl.
Once the chicken skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
Serve the skewers drizzled with the bang bang sauce and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
For a healthier option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers for extra flavor and nutrition.
