Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! They feature juicy chicken pieces coated in a spicy and creamy sauce that adds a delightful kick.
These skewers are perfect for parties or a cozy night in. I love serving them with extra sauce on the side for dipping—it’s hard to stop at one! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well for this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs could be a great alternative. They’re juicier and more flavorful.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo brings creaminess, but feel free to use Greek yogurt for a healthier option. It adds a tangy kick too!
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is key for a hint of sweetness. If you don’t have any on hand, you can mix sugar with regular chili sauce as a substitute.
Sriracha: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. If you want it milder, you can skip it or use a milder hot sauce instead.
Garlic and Ginger Powder: For ease, powdered forms are great, but fresh minced garlic and ginger can elevate the flavor even more. Just use about 1 clove and 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger.
How Do I Grill Perfect Chicken Skewers?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but there are a few tips to get it right! Start by soaking your wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for even cooking.
- Make sure the chicken pieces are evenly sized so they cook at the same rate.
- Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. Look for a nice golden-brown color and internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the skewers sit for a few minutes after grilling to keep them juicy.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8-10 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if grilling)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to grill. Plus, you’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes—1 to 2 hours is even better to let those flavors really soak in. So, plan for around 1 to 2 hours total for marinating and cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all up until it’s nice and smooth. Set aside half of this tasty sauce for later use.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the remaining sauce. Toss them gently to coat the chicken pieces well. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator. If you have time, let it sit for 1-2 hours for the best flavor, but 30 minutes is good too!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks!
4. Prepare the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator and thread the pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Make sure they are evenly spaced so they cook properly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally so they get cooked all around and have those beautiful grill marks. The chicken should be cooked through and no longer pink in the middle.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is ready, carefully take the skewers off the grill and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with the reserved dipping sauce on the side. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and some lime wedges for a zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic substitute and will add a bit more flavor and juiciness to your skewers. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Sweet Chili Sauce?
No problem! You can make a quick substitute by mixing honey or sugar with a bit of vinegar and red pepper flakes for spice. Adjust the sweetness and heat to your taste. You can also try using a teriyaki sauce if you have it on hand!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just remember, the longer you marinate it, the more flavor it will absorb, but be careful not to marinate for too long as the texture may become mushy.
Can I Prepare These Skewers in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to a day ahead and thread it onto skewers just before grilling. If you want to grill some other time, it’s best to freeze the marinated skewers in a freezer-safe bag—just thaw them in the fridge before grilling!
