Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are juicy strips of chicken marinated in a sweet and spicy sauce, perfect for grilling. They’re super tasty and ready to impress your friends at the next barbecue!
These skewers are not just delicious; they’re fun to eat too! I like to serve them with some fresh veggies on the side for an extra crunch. Trust me, they’ll disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is great for skewers as it cooks evenly. If you want a tad more flavor and moisture, thighs work well too. Both cuts are easy to find and prepare.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to your sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or even a vegan mayo. Both can give a nice tang while keeping it creamy.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This sweet and slightly spicy sauce is essential for that Bang Bang taste. If you can’t find it, make your own by mixing honey and a bit of hot sauce or use barbecue sauce as an alternative.
Sriracha: This gives the dish its heat. Adjust it to your pepper tolerance. For milder flavors, try using a little less or swap in a milder chili sauce like ketchup mixed with red pepper flakes.
Garlic & Ginger: Fresh is best for these ingredients. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder or ground ginger can substitute, but the fresh versions give a livelier flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret lies in marinating the chicken. This step infuses flavor and helps keep it moist when cooking. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure to marinate between 30 minutes to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leaving space lets the heat circulate, ensuring even cooking.
- Cook over medium-high heat for a nice char, but keep an eye on the grill to avoid burning.
- Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
After grilling, let the skewers rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. You’ll also need about 10-12 minutes for grilling. Overall, plan for about 1 hour including marinating time for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper until it’s smooth and creamy. This tasty mix will be both your marinade and dipping sauce!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Set aside about 1/4 cup of the sauce to use later for dipping. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Toss everything together to ensure all the chicken is nicely coated with the marinade. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to marinate. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, let it sit for up to 2 hours for even more flavor!
3. Grill the Skewers:
Once your chicken is marinated, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you are using a grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Skewer the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers (if using), leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once they’re done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with the reserved sauce on the side for dipping. If you’d like, you can garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious homemade skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No worries! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, or use sour cream. Both will contribute creaminess while adding their unique flavors. Adjust the seasonings slightly if needed to complement the alternative.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or place them back on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through. Just be careful not to overcook them, so they remain juicy!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead! Store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure the ingredients are well combined again.
