If you’re a fan of bold, zesty flavors, then Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are about to become your new favorite meal! This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a tantalizing sauce that balances creaminess with a kick of heat. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving something with a spicy punch, this recipe is both easy to follow and deliciously satisfying. Plus, you’ll love how quickly it comes together—perfect for weeknight dinners or summer parties.
What is Bang Bang Chicken?
Bang Bang Chicken is a popular Asian-inspired dish that traditionally features shredded chicken drizzled in a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce. The name “Bang Bang” comes from the Chinese method of preparing chicken by tenderizing it with sticks, creating a tender texture. However, in this modern twist, the chicken is cubed, skewered, and grilled or baked for that perfect char.
What really sets this dish apart is the Bang Bang Sauce—a mouthwatering combination of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a hint of lime. It’s sweet, it’s spicy, and it’s got just the right tang to bring everything together.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (more if you like it spicy)
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
Preparing the Chicken Skewers
The first step in this recipe is prepping your chicken. You want to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they hold up well on the grill and soak up all the flavorful spices. After cutting the chicken into cubes, marinate them with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
These spices will ensure the chicken has a rich, smoky flavor, even before adding the sauce. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour if you have time).
Skewering the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to allow for even cooking. If you’re using bamboo skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water to prevent burning on the grill.
How to Grill the Chicken Skewers
Grilling is the most popular method for making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers because it gives the chicken a delicious char that adds texture and flavor.
Preheat your grill:
Set your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a stovetop grill pan, preheat it on medium-high as well. You want the grill hot enough to sear the chicken but not too hot that it burns before cooking through.
Cook the chicken:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, turning halfway through. You’re aiming for a nice golden-brown color with visible grill marks. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For those without a grill, you can bake the skewers in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through, turning them halfway.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, you can whip up the signature Bang Bang Sauce.
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Taste the sauce to see if you want to adjust the heat level by adding more sriracha or a bit more sweetness with honey. The goal is to create a creamy, spicy, and tangy sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.
This sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, so feel free to make extra for future meals!
Serving Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Once the chicken skewers are grilled to perfection, it’s time to drizzle—or generously coat—them with the Bang Bang Sauce. You can either brush the sauce onto the skewers right after they come off the grill or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side.
For a burst of freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the top before serving. You can also add a wedge of lime on the side for those who like an extra squeeze of citrus.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
These skewers are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The mild flavor of jasmine rice complements the bold Bang Bang sauce perfectly.
- Grilled Vegetables: Try grilling bell peppers, zucchini, and onions alongside the chicken for a colorful, healthy side.
- Crispy Wonton Strips: Add some crunch to your meal by serving crispy wonton strips as a fun side.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the spiciness of the chicken.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: The cooling effect of cucumbers provides the perfect counterbalance to the heat from the sriracha.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: With only a few simple ingredients, you can have dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable Heat: Whether you like it mild or extra spicy, you can adjust the sriracha in the sauce to fit your heat tolerance.
- Perfect for Grilling Season: These skewers are ideal for summer BBQs or as a healthy alternative to fried chicken wings.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Double the recipe, store the skewers in the fridge, and enjoy flavorful lunches throughout the week.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave space between each piece of chicken on the skewer so they cook evenly.
- Soak Bamboo Skewers: To avoid burning, soak the bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Monitor Grill Heat: Medium-high heat is ideal for a good sear without overcooking the chicken.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, bake the chicken skewers at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and can work just as well in this recipe.
Is Bang Bang sauce gluten-free?
Most versions are, but check your sweet chili sauce and sriracha labels to ensure they’re gluten-free.
How long can I store Bang Bang sauce?
The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the chicken with tofu or large mushrooms, and follow the same cooking instructions.
What other proteins can I use?
You can use shrimp, pork, or even beef for this recipe. The Bang Bang sauce pairs well with most proteins!
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer a delightful mix of heat, sweetness, and creamy richness that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re grilling them for a summer BBQ or baking them for a cozy weeknight dinner, these skewers are bound to be a hit. The recipe is quick, simple, and adaptable to your preferred spice level, making it perfect for all palates. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s destined to be your new favorite meal!