These Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are yummy! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated and cooked on a stick, then topped with a creamy and spicy sauce that gives them a nice kick.
Perfect for a fun party or a simple dinner, these skewers are a hit with everyone! I love serving them with crunchy veggies on the side for a tasty meal. 🍗🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner. If you prefer, feel free to swap for tofu or shrimp for a different twist!
Marinade: Soy sauce gives great flavor, but if you’re avoiding soy, try coconut aminos or tamari. Honey adds sweetness; maple syrup works well if you want a vegan option!
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise is key for creaminess. You can substitute Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo if you want a lighter or plant-based version. Adjust the Sriracha for less heat, or leave it out if you prefer mild flavors.
How Can I Grill Chicken Skewers Without Drying Them Out?
The secret to juicy chicken is in the marinade and grilling technique. Marinating helps tenderize the chicken and infuse flavor.
- Soak skewers in water to prevent burning on the grill.
- Dont overcrowd the skewers; space the chicken pieces slightly apart to cook evenly.
- Cook on medium-high heat for shorter times, around 3-4 mins each side, checking with a meat thermometer for doneness at 165°F (74°C).
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain its juices, making each bite tender and flavorful!
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8-10 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
To Garnish:
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
- A pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prep, and you’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for better flavor). The grilling will take around 10 minutes. All in all, you can have these skewers ready in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
First, grab a bowl and whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Season the chicken pieces with a little salt and black pepper. Next, toss the chicken into the marinade and coat it well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer if you can!
2. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, let’s mix up the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, garlic powder, and lime juice until smooth. If you like it spicier, add more Sriracha! Cover and refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to serve.
3. Skewer and Grill the Chicken:
After the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If desired, brush the grill grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. Once heated, place the skewers on the grill.
Grill the skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning them until the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
4. Serve:
Carefully remove the chicken skewers from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter. Drizzle them generously with the Bang Bang sauce or serve the sauce on the side as a dip. For a bit of flair, garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley and a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
5. Enjoy!
These skewers are fantastic alongside fresh crunchy vegetables, steamed rice, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Dig in and enjoy the delightful flavors!
This recipe yields tender, flavorful chicken skewers coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce that’s easy to make and sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Proteins?
Absolutely! You can use shrimp or firm tofu instead of chicken for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for shrimp, which cooks much faster!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes will add some flavor, but a longer marination will enhance the taste!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness!
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance! It can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before serving as the ingredients may separate slightly over time.
