Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer a tantalizing fusion of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors that will ignite your taste buds. This quick, simple, and irresistibly delicious grilled chicken recipe is perfect for elevating your weeknight dinners, making a splash at summer barbecues, or impressing guests at any gathering. Forget the hassle of complicated cooking; with just a handful of accessible ingredients and minimal preparation, you can effortlessly bring restaurant-quality taste right into your kitchen.
These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, delivering an explosion of flavor in every bite. The secret lies in a rich, aromatic marinade that transforms ordinary chicken into incredibly tender, juicy, and deeply flavorful pieces. Once perfectly marinated, the chicken is expertly grilled to achieve a beautiful char and succulent texture, then generously drizzled with our signature zingy Bang Bang sauce. This recipe offers a healthier, grilled alternative to the traditionally fried Bang Bang Chicken, making it a guilt-free indulgence that’s fantastic for lunches, dinners, or even as a versatile component in your meal prep strategy.
If you’re a fan of diverse and delicious chicken recipes, you might also enjoy exploring my Baked Panko Chicken Tenders for a crispy, comforting classic, or my Oven Chicken Skewers for another easy, healthy, and flavorful option.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
Prepare to fall in love with these delightful chicken skewers for a multitude of reasons:
- Unforgettably Savory Flavor: Experience the ultimate flavor harmony. These skewers boast a perfect balance of fiery spice, subtle sweetness, and bright tanginess, creating a complex and incredibly satisfying taste profile that will keep you coming back for more. It’s a culinary adventure in every bite.
- Quick, Easy, and Efficient: Life gets busy, but delicious meals don’t have to be a luxury. This recipe shines with its minimal prep time and fast cooking, making it an ideal choice for hectic weeknights. Spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying a fantastic meal with loved ones, without compromising on flavor or quality.
- Perfect for Grilling Enthusiasts: Embrace the smoky char and irresistible aroma that only grilling can provide. Whether you’re hosting a backyard summer cookout or utilizing an indoor grill pan during colder months, these skewers are perfectly designed for grilling, ensuring a delightful outdoor-inspired dining experience anytime.
- Incredibly Versatile Dish: These chicken skewers are a true chameleon in the kitchen. Serve them as an impressive appetizer to kick off a meal, feature them as a vibrant and satisfying main course, or slice the grilled chicken and add it to fresh salads and wraps for a lighter, flavor-packed lunch. Their adaptability makes them a valuable addition to your recipe repertoire.
- Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the iconic Bang Bang flavor profile without the deep-fried guilt. Our grilled version significantly reduces fat while retaining all the succulent juiciness and flavor, making it a smart choice for those seeking delicious, health-conscious meals.
Essential Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Ingredients
Crafting these delectable chicken skewers requires a blend of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need to create the magic:
- Chicken Thighs: We highly recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into uniform bite-sized pieces. Their higher fat content ensures they remain incredibly juicy and tender during grilling, delivering a more succulent experience. While chicken breast can be used, be mindful to adjust cooking times to prevent them from drying out.
- Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil forms the base of our savory marinade. It acts as a binder, helping the seasonings adhere beautifully to the chicken, and also contributes to the moistness and flavor during cooking. Any neutral oil can be substituted.
- Flavorful Seasonings: A harmonious blend of paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper infuses the chicken with a rich, aromatic foundation. Paprika adds a subtle sweetness and warmth, while the garlic and onion powders provide depth, creating a truly irresistible marinade.
- Mayonnaise: This creamy ingredient serves as the essential base for our luscious Bang Bang sauce. It provides a rich, smooth texture and a subtle tang that perfectly complements the other flavors. For a lighter twist, plain Greek yogurt can be a fantastic substitute.
- Chili Sauces (Sweet Chili & Sriracha): The heart of the “Bang Bang” flavor! A strategic mix of sweet chili sauce brings a delightful sugary counterpoint and slight stickiness, while Sriracha adds that characteristic fiery kick. Adjust the ratios to suit your preferred level of spice.
- Limes: Fresh lime juice is crucial for adding a bright, zesty tang to the sauce, cutting through the richness and elevating the overall flavor profile. Don’t forget extra lime wedges for garnishing and a final squeeze of freshness when serving.
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also contributes a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish and makes for a more appealing presentation.
Smart Ingredient Substitutions and Flavor Variations
- Chicken Options: For an even leaner cut, feel free to substitute boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins. They cook quickly and remain juicy if not overcooked. You can also experiment with shrimp or firm tofu for a different protein base.
- Customizing Bang Bang Sauce: Achieve a lighter sauce by swapping half or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. If you crave more heat, don’t hesitate to increase the Sriracha or introduce a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of red chili flakes. For a smoky depth, a tiny bit of smoked paprika can work wonders.
- Gluten-Free Soy Sauce Alternative: While not listed, if you typically add a dash of soy sauce to marinades or sauces, use tamari or coconut aminos to ensure a gluten-free option.
- Add Vegetables to Skewers: Boost flavor, texture, and nutrition by threading colorful vegetables onto the skewers alongside the chicken. Bell peppers (red, yellow, orange), red onions, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple chunks are excellent choices that caramelize beautifully on the grill.
Mastering Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these sensational skewers is straightforward. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your bite-sized chicken pieces with the olive oil, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use your hands or a spoon to mix thoroughly, ensuring every piece of chicken is uniformly coated in this aromatic seasoning blend. For maximum flavor penetration and tenderness, allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If time permits, marinating for 2-4 hours, or even overnight, will yield even more delicious results.
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers. Once the chicken has marinated, carefully thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto your chosen skewers (see important tip below about wooden skewers). Aim for even distribution of chicken along the skewer, leaving a small space between each piece to allow for even cooking and proper browning. Don’t overcrowd the skewers, as this can steam the chicken instead of grilling it.
Step 3: Craft the Signature Bang Bang Sauce. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the star of the show – the Bang Bang sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and fresh lime juice until the mixture is perfectly smooth and creamy. The color should be a vibrant, appealing orange-red. Once mixed, set aside half of this delicious sauce; this reserved portion will be used for drizzling over the cooked skewers just before serving.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken to Perfection. Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to a medium-high heat. Brush the remaining half of the Bang Bang sauce generously onto the skewered chicken. Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes on the first side, allowing a beautiful char and golden-brown crust to form. Then, flip the skewers, brush with a little more sauce if desired, and cook for another 8 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
Important Tips to Perfect Your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Achieving restaurant-quality skewers is easy with these expert tips:
- Always Soak Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden or bamboo skewers, it’s absolutely crucial to soak them in water for at least 20-30 minutes before threading the chicken. This simple step prevents them from catching fire and burning on the hot grill, ensuring your chicken cooks perfectly without interruption.
- Ensure Even Chicken Pieces: Cut your chicken thighs or breasts into roughly uniform, bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes). This consistency is vital for ensuring that all the chicken cooks evenly at the same rate, preventing some pieces from being undercooked while others become dry and overcooked.
- Proper Grill Preheat is Key: Always allow your grill or grill pan to preheat thoroughly to the specified temperature. A properly hot surface is essential for achieving those beautiful, desirable grill marks, preventing sticking, and searing the outside of the chicken quickly to lock in juices.
- Avoid Overcooking for Juiciness: Chicken thighs are more forgiving than breasts, but still, be mindful not to overcook. The ultimate goal is to cook the chicken until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect doneness, guaranteeing tender, juicy results every time.
- Customize the Spice Level: The beauty of homemade Bang Bang sauce is its adaptability. Feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha to your personal preference. For a milder sauce, reduce the Sriracha. For an extra fiery kick, add more Sriracha or a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: When placing the skewers on the grill, ensure there’s enough space between them. Overcrowding can lower the grill’s temperature and cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, resulting in less flavorful and less appealing skewers. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Let the Chicken Rest: After grilling, transfer the skewers to a plate and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.
Delightful Pairings: What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide array of side dishes. Here are some of our favorite combinations to create a complete and satisfying meal:
- Perfect Rice Companions: Serve these flavorful skewers over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice for a classic and comforting pairing. For an extra touch of tropical sweetness, coconut rice is an exceptional choice. If you’re looking to add a unique twist, my Mexican Fried Rice offers a vibrant and savory contrast that complements the Bang Bang flavors wonderfully. Brown rice can also be a healthy, hearty option.
- Light and Refreshing Salads: Balance the richness and spice with a crisp, refreshing salad. A simple cucumber salad, a creamy coleslaw, or my Simple House Salad recipe with a light vinaigrette all make excellent choices. The coolness of the fresh vegetables provides a delightful counterpoint to the warm, spicy chicken.
- Complementary Grilled Vegetables: Keep the grilling theme going by preparing some simple grilled vegetables. Zucchini slices, colorful bell peppers (red, yellow, orange), tender asparagus spears, or sweet corn on the cob all make fantastic side dishes that capture the essence of summer. My Easy Mixed Vegetables Recipe, especially with its added potatoes, also pairs perfectly, offering a hearty and flavorful vegetable medley.
- Noodle Dishes: For an Asian-inspired meal, serve the chicken skewers alongside a simple stir-fried noodle dish or a cool sesame noodle salad. The textures and flavors will blend seamlessly.
- Baked Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: A comforting baked potato or a nutrient-rich baked sweet potato can be a substantial and delicious side, especially when topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Storing, Reheating, and Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
These skewers are fantastic for leftovers, making meal planning a breeze. Here’s how to properly store and reheat them to maintain their deliciousness:
Storing Leftovers: Any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, whether the meat is still on the skewers or removed, should be stored in an airtight container. Place them in the refrigerator promptly and they will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled completely before storing to prevent condensation.
To Reheat for Best Results:
- If on Skewers: To retain moisture and tenderness, reheat the skewered chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through. You can lightly tent them with foil to prevent drying.
- If Removed from Skewers: Individual chicken pieces can be quickly reheated in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate, cover lightly, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until warmed. Be careful not to overheat, which can dry out the chicken. Alternatively, a quick sauté in a pan with a tiny bit of oil can crisp them up nicely.
Freezing Cooked Skewers: Cooked Bang Bang chicken (without the sauce, as mayonnaise-based sauces don’t freeze well) can be frozen for future enjoyment. Remove the chicken from the skewers and place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To use, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed and reheated, you can then prepare and add fresh Bang Bang sauce for the best flavor and texture.
Alternative Cooking Methods for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
No grill? No problem! These versatile chicken skewers can be cooked using other common kitchen appliances, still delivering fantastic results:
- Air Fryer Method: For a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior, the air fryer is an excellent option. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated chicken skewers in a single layer within the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it (cook in batches if necessary). Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Oven Baking Method: The oven provides a convenient way to cook these skewers for a crowd. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated skewers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown evenly. The chicken should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For a slightly charred finish, you can briefly broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Can I prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Bang Bang sauce is excellent for meal prep. You can whisk it together up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, making it even more delicious.
How do I prevent chicken from sticking to the grill?
There are a few key tricks: first, ensure your grill grates are thoroughly clean before preheating. Second, make sure the grill is properly preheated to the correct temperature. Third, lightly brush the chicken itself with oil (which is already part of our marinade). Finally, and importantly, once the chicken is placed on the hot grill, resist the urge to move it immediately. Let it cook undisturbed for several minutes to allow a good sear to form. This natural caramelization will help the chicken release easily from the grates.
Can I marinate the chicken longer for more flavor?
Yes, definitely! Marinating the chicken for a longer period will infuse it with even more flavor and help tenderize it further. You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for optimal results, we recommend marinating it for 2-4 hours, or even up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just ensure it’s covered.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe can easily be made dairy-free. If you use a dairy-free mayonnaise for the Bang Bang sauce, the entire recipe is naturally dairy-free. Always check your mayonnaise label to confirm it doesn’t contain any dairy ingredients.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breast for thighs. However, chicken breast is leaner and tends to dry out more easily. To keep it juicy, cut the pieces to a uniform size and monitor the cooking time carefully, ensuring you cook it just until it reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce or Sriracha?
While these two sauces provide the signature Bang Bang flavor, you can get creative. For sweet chili sauce, you could combine honey or maple syrup with a touch of rice vinegar and a pinch of chili flakes. For Sriracha, any hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot or Tabasco can provide heat, but the flavor profile will be slightly different. Adjust to taste.
Explore More Bang Bang Inspired Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the vibrant flavors of Bang Bang sauce, you’re in luck! Here are a couple more recipes that harness this irresistible flavor profile in exciting new ways:
- Crispy Bang Bang Cauliflower: A delightful vegetarian option that coats tender cauliflower in a crispy batter, then tosses it in the signature sweet and spicy sauce.
- Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp: Succulent shrimp perfectly air-fried to a golden crisp, then coated in that addictive Bang Bang sauce – a quick and healthy appetizer or light meal.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are truly a culinary triumph, offering a bold, satisfying, and utterly delicious flavor profile that’s incredibly difficult to resist. They bring together the best of sweet, spicy, and savory notes in a fun, grill-friendly format. We encourage you to savor these flavorful skewers with your preferred side dishes, and remember to drizzle them generously with that irresistible Bang Bang sauce for the ultimate taste experience!
If you give this recipe or any of my other culinary creations a try, please take a moment to leave a star rating in the comment section below. Your feedback is greatly appreciated! Also, be sure to follow Cookin’ With Mima on Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest to stay updated on all my latest social posts and exciting new recipes.
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Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
For Chicken
- 2 lb skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- Lime wedges, to garnish
- Chopped parsley, to garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ingredients for seasoning the chicken: chicken pieces, oil, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure the chicken pieces are well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers, pushing them to the ends of the skewers. Ensure the chicken pieces are evenly distributed.
- Meanwhile, prepare the bang bang sauce: Combine mayo, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice. Mix until smooth and creamy. Save half of the prepared sauce to use later.
- Brush the remaining bang bang sauce over the threaded chicken evenly.
- Preheat a griddle or grill pan. Place the threaded chicken skewers on the griddle or grill pan and cook for 6-8 minutes. Flip to the other side, brush again with the bang bang sauce, and cook for an additional 8 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Transfer the cooked chicken skewers to a serving plate, drizzle the remaining bang bang sauce over the skewers, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Cut Chicken Evenly: Ensure the chicken pieces are roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure the grill is properly preheated to ensure even cooking and nice grill marks.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to keep it juicy and tender.
- Adjust Spice Level: Customize the spiciness of the bang bang sauce by adjusting the amount of Sriracha or adding chili flakes.