Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a spicy and creamy sauce, then grilled to perfection on sticks.
These skewers are always a hit at parties or family dinners. I love to serve them with a side of veggies for a colorful plate that’s hard to resist! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs for added flavor and juiciness. Tofu or tempeh are great choices for a plant-based version!
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to your sauce. If you want to lighten it up, you can substitute Greek yogurt or even use a vegan mayo for a dairy-free option. I’ve found that Greek yogurt gives a nice tanginess too!
Sweet Chili Sauce: This balances sweet and spicy flavors. If you can’t find it, a mix of honey or maple syrup with a bit of chili paste works well. Adjust the sweetness to your liking!
Sriracha: This adds heat, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance! If you’re looking for something milder, try using another hot sauce, or leave it out entirely for a mild version.
Cilantro: This adds freshness! If you’re not a cilantro fan, parsley or green onions can be a great substitute. They still bring brightness without the strong flavor of cilantro.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked on the Grill?
Getting perfectly grilled chicken can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your grill is preheated. This helps to sear the chicken quickly, keeping it juicy inside.
- Leave space between the chicken pieces on the skewers. This allows steam to escape and ensures even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer if you have one. The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Turn the skewers gently, and avoid pressing down on the chicken, as it can release juices and make it dry.
With these tips, you’ll be sure to have delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers every time! Enjoy grilling!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust according to spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for preparation and at least 1 hour for marinating. The grilling itself will take approximately 10-12 minutes. In total, you can expect around 1.5 to 2 hours to enjoy these delicious skewers, including marinade time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well blended and you have a smooth sauce.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take half of the sauce you just made and set it aside for dipping later. Add the cubed chicken to the remaining sauce in the bowl, ensuring that every piece is coated well. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For even more flavor, you can let it marinate for up to 4 hours!
3. Prepare to Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning while grilling!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken is finished marinating, thread the pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each chicken piece so they cook evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want the chicken to be cooked through, and it should have nice, appetizing grill marks. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle them with the reserved dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds if you’d like. Serve with extra dipping sauce on the side for a delicious touch. Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. Just keep in mind that thighs may need a bit more cooking time—make sure they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) regardless of the cut you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Sriracha?
No problem! You can substitute Sriracha with other hot sauces like sambal oelek or even red pepper flakes for heat. Adjust the quantity according to your spice preference. If you’re looking for a milder version, consider using a sweet chili sauce with no added heat.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I recommend using an oven or air fryer for the best texture. Just reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.
Can I Prepare the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken the night before! Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water up to 24 hours ahead to help prevent burning on the grill.
