These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are tender, juicy pieces of chicken coated in a crispy, spicy sauce that packs a flavorful punch! Perfect for grilling or baking!
I love serving them with a side of veggies or a cool dip. It’s so fun to eat off the skewer, and let’s be real, who can resist that tasty sauce? 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The star of the dish! I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breast for its lean texture. You can swap it for thighs, which are juicier. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, try firm tofu instead.
Mayonnaise: This provides creaminess and binds the sauce. If you’re avoiding eggs, you can use vegan mayo. Greek yogurt is another great substitute for a healthier twist.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This gives a nice blend of sweetness and spice. If you can’t find it, mix honey with a bit of ketchup and crushed red pepper for a quick alternative.
Sriracha: This adds a kick! Adjust it to your spice level; you can use any hot sauce you like, or leave it out entirely for a milder flavor.
Fresh Lime Juice: Lime adds a refreshing zing. If you don’t have fresh limes, lemon juice works well too. Keep in mind, fresh is usually best for flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating is key to juicy chicken. Use the sauce you mixed for marinating, as it penetrates the meat and enhances the flavor. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Combine your marinade ingredients in a bowl; it should coat the chicken well.
- Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are fully covered. Cover and refrigerate.
- For deeper flavor, marinate for at least 1 hour. If you have time, let it sit for 2 hours or overnight.
Also, don’t forget about cooking times! Ensure your grill is preheated and cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside—about 5-7 minutes per side usually does the trick.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes for marinating. If you’d like to marinate the chicken longer, you can let it sit in the fridge for up to 2 hours. The grilling will take about 10-14 minutes. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious skewers in around 1 hour total, depending on how long you marinate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s important to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning when they’re on the grill. While they soak, you can prepare the rest of your ingredients!
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and lime juice. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy. Remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of this sauce for serving and marinating later!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl with the remaining sauce. Toss everything together so that the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will give it even more flavor!
4. Preheat and Prepare to Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken has marinated, take it out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece so they cook evenly.
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be cooked through and have nice grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Finish and Serve:
Once the skewers are done, remove them from the grill and brush them with the reserved Bang Bang sauce. This adds an extra burst of flavor! Serve the chicken skewers garnished with chopped cilantro and offer the extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken breast is great for skewers, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just make sure to cut them into similar bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make This Sauce Spicier?
Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by adding more sriracha to taste! If you want it extra spicy, consider adding some chopped fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Skewers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a minute or two, or warm them on the grill for a few minutes to regain that grill flavor!
Can I Grill These Skewers Indoors?
Yes! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Just make sure to preheat it properly and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. The cooking time should be similar—just keep an eye on them for doneness!
