Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Tender pieces of chicken are marinated and grilled, then coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that adds a nice kick.
These skewers are perfect for parties or a cozy dinner. I love serving them with a side of veggies or on a bed of rice. Trust me, everyone will be reaching for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe shines with tender chicken breast. Consider using thighs for extra juiciness. If you have leftovers from a roast chicken, those can work too!
Mayonnaise: A must for creaminess! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt. It adds a nice tang while maintaining texture. You could also use vegan mayo for a plant-based version.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This ingredient is key for sweetness and a bit of heat. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts honey and soy sauce, or try a mix of ketchup and a touch of hot sauce for a similar effect.
Sriracha: This adds heat, but you can adjust to your taste. For a milder flavor, consider using a bit of paprika or cayenne instead, or simply reduce the amount of sriracha.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens everything up! If you’re out of limes, lemon juice can substitute, but it has a slightly different flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Well-Cooked?
Grilling skewer chicken can be tricky, but with some attention, you can make it perfectly juicy. Starting with good marination is essential; let your chicken soak for a while. The acid in lime juice tenderizes and flavors it beautifully. Here’s how to ensure great results:
- Ensure your grill is preheated. A hot grill gives nice sear marks and helps lock in juices.
- Space the chicken pieces on the skewer. This helps them cook evenly – don’t overcrowd!
- Keep an eye on the cooking time. Chicken generally cooks in about 10-15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer; 165°F is safe.
- Brush the last few minutes with reserved marinade to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
Rest the skewers for a few minutes after grilling for the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken tender. Enjoy your skewers!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Marinade and Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients:
- 8-10 skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes—longer if you have the time. Then, you’ll spend about 15-20 minutes cooking them on the grill. So in total, plan for about 1 hour if you include the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until it’s all combined into a smooth marinade and sauce.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Set aside about 1/4 cup of this sauce—this will be for later, served as a dip. Now, add the chicken pieces to the rest of the marinade in the bowl. Stir to coat the chicken thoroughly. Cover the bowl with cling film or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or a few hours for an even better flavor!).
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken pieces out of the fridge. Thread them onto the skewers, making sure to leave a bit of space between each piece so they cook evenly. This will help them get those tasty grill marks!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally for even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is fully cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Add Extra Flavor:
In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the reserved marinade over the skewers to add an extra layer of flavor. Yum!
7. Let Them Rest:
Once the skewers are done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices stay in the chicken.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the skewers to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve with the reserved dipping sauce on the side, and enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Boneless Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will add a bit more moisture and flavor to the skewers. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through compared to breasts. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. It will provide the creaminess while adding a tangy flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try blending silken tofu for a similar texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook as they can dry out.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can make the marinade ahead of time! Just mix everything together and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before using, as some ingredients may settle!
