The Bang Bang Chicken Skewers bring together the irresistible flavors of sweet and spicy in a perfectly grilled dish. The combination of creamy, zesty sauce with tender, charred chicken creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or preparing a quick weeknight meal, these skewers are a guaranteed hit.
This dish is versatile and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for entertaining or meal prepping. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences and even pair it with fresh vegetables or a side of rice to round out the meal. With its bold flavors and eye-catching presentation, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6-8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Directions:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, garlic, lime juice, and soy sauce. Reserve half of the sauce for serving.
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then toss in the remaining sauce until well-coated.
- Thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, making sure they are evenly spaced.
- Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a slight char.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve with the reserved sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe is a delightful fusion of sweet and spicy flavors that highlights bold Asian-inspired ingredients. This dish is incredibly versatile and appeals to both casual cooks and food enthusiasts. The creamy, zesty sauce made with sweet chili, sriracha, and lime juice complements the juicy grilled chicken, creating a perfect balance of heat, tang, and sweetness.
Why This Recipe Works
- Bold Flavor Profile: The sauce combines pantry staples like mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, delivering a creamy yet spicy glaze that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of grilling, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable Spice Level: You can easily adjust the amount of sriracha to make it milder or spicier, depending on your audience.
- Perfect for Entertaining: Skewered food is always a hit at parties. The presentation is fun, and the individual servings are convenient for guests.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the skewers with steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad to create a balanced meal.
- For a more casual approach, serve the skewers alongside your favorite dips and fresh veggies for a vibrant platter.
- Add these skewers to a summer BBQ menu alongside grilled corn, baked potatoes, and a tangy coleslaw.
Variations and Tips
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with cubes of tofu or paneer, ensuring they are well-marinated before grilling.
- Oven Alternative: If grilling isn’t an option, bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, just thread onto skewers and grill.
Fun Fact
The term “Bang Bang” originates from a traditional Chinese street food preparation called “Bang Bang Chicken,” where the meat was tenderized with a mallet. While this modern interpretation doesn’t involve mallets, it keeps the spirit of bold, impactful flavors alive!
This recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser and a guaranteed way to add excitement to your dining table or grill nights.
History and Origin
Bang Bang Chicken traces its roots to Sichuan cuisine, a region known for its bold and spicy flavors. Traditionally, the dish involved shredded chicken served cold with a spicy sesame sauce. The “bang bang” part of the name comes from the sound of the mallet used to tenderize the chicken. This modern variation keeps the bold flavors but transforms it into a grilled skewer recipe, making it more versatile and suitable for different occasions.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
- Chicken Thighs: Preferred for their juiciness and ability to stay tender during grilling. You can substitute chicken breasts, but thighs offer a richer flavor.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Provides a sweet base with a hint of heat, balancing the spicier sriracha.
- Sriracha: Adds a spicy kick; adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy texture for the sauce, allowing it to cling to the chicken beautifully.
- Lime Juice: Brings brightness and tang, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic: Adds depth and a savory note to the marinade and sauce.
Health Benefits
This dish is packed with flavor without being overly indulgent. Using lean chicken thighs and a controlled amount of sauce makes it a lighter option for grilling. Additionally, the use of lime juice and garlic adds natural antioxidants and nutrients to the dish.
Tips for Success
- Soak the Skewers: Prevent wooden skewers from burning by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
- Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for 2-3 hours, or even overnight, in the refrigerator.
- Grill Temperature: Keep the grill at medium-high heat to ensure the chicken cooks evenly without drying out.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Family Dinner: Serve with a bowl of sticky white rice or fried rice, topped with scallions for an elegant yet comforting meal.
- Casual Gathering: Plate the skewers on a wooden serving board with a side of dipping sauce and fresh herbs for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
- Meal Prep: Cook extra skewers and store them in the fridge for quick lunches or dinner throughout the week. They reheat beautifully and are great as part of a salad or grain bowl.
Pairing Suggestions
- Beverages: Complement the sweet and spicy flavors with a refreshing drink like iced green tea, lemonade, or a light beer. For a more elevated pairing, a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc works wonderfully.
- Dips: Beyond the reserved sauce, consider serving with a cooling cucumber-yogurt dip or a nutty peanut sauce.
With its vibrant flavors, ease of preparation, and versatile appeal, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a must-add to any food enthusiast’s repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish promises to deliver unforgettable flavors!
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a sensational addition to any meal, offering a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. This recipe combines simplicity with boldness, making it an excellent choice for both everyday dinners and special gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these skewers are approachable and adaptable, ensuring they fit your preferences and dietary needs.
Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also delivers a vibrant presentation that’s sure to impress. The creamy, tangy sauce paired with tender, juicy chicken creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone craving more. From casual summer BBQs to cozy family dinners, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, promising to be a hit on your dining table time and time again.