These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are full of flavor and super easy to make! With juicy chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, they’re perfect for grilling or baking.
They’re a hit at parties, and honestly, who can resist that extra drizzle of sauce? I like to serve them with a cool dipping sauce to balance the heat—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe shines with juicy chicken breast pieces. You could swap it out for chicken thighs for a richer flavor, or even use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is a key ingredient for creaminess. If you want a lighter version, try Greek yogurt; it works well here too and adds a bit of tang.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce gives a sweet and mild heat. If you can’t find it, you could mix honey with a little hot sauce for a similar flavor, or use hoisin sauce for a different twist.
Sriracha: Adjust the Sriracha to your heat preference. If you’re sensitive to spice, consider using mild hot sauce or omitting it altogether.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice is a good stand-in, giving a similar zesty kick.
How Do I Successfully Marinate the Chicken?
Marinating chicken adds flavor and moisture, making it more enjoyable. Here’s a simple guide for marinating:
- Combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl to ensure even distribution.
- Check your marinade for balance—adjust spices if needed.
- After coating the chicken, let it sit refrigerated for at least 30 minutes. For maximum flavor, aim for 2 hours.
Also, remember to set aside some marinade before adding the chicken. This reserved sauce becomes a delightful drizzle when the skewers are ready to serve!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to cook. You’ll also want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor. So, total time can range from 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on your marinating time. Perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. Save about 1/4 cup of this sauce for serving later. Add the chicken pieces into the bowl and toss them until they’re fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—this helps infuse flavor. If you have time, marinating for up to 2 hours is even better!
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This will stop them from burning on the grill. While the skewers soak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done marinating, take it out of the fridge. Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure to leave a bit of space between each piece. This will help them cook evenly.
4. Grill the Skewers:
To prevent sticking, brush the grill with a little vegetable oil. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
5. Serve:
Carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Drizzle the reserved sauce on top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro. You can also serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken breast is a great choice for skewers, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just make sure the pieces are cut to a similar size for even cooking. If you prefer dark meat, thighs will still work beautifully!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a vegan alternative, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a plant-based yogurt. Both will provide creaminess and a tangy flavor to the marinade without losing the deliciousness of the dish!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but be careful not to overcook!
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the skewers ahead of time! Marinate the chicken and thread it onto the skewers, then cover and refrigerate. It’s best to cook them within a day or two for optimal freshness. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking!
