There’s something magical about the sizzle of chicken on the grill, especially when it’s coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are not just a meal; they’re an experience. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these skewers are sure to impress your family and friends. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your grilling repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a game-changer for busy weeknights. They come together in a flash, making dinner stress-free. The combination of creamy and spicy flavors will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, they’re versatile enough to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just a cozy night in, these skewers deliver on taste and ease every time!
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Mayonnaise: This creamy base adds richness to the sauce, making it smooth and luscious.
Sweet chili sauce: A touch of sweetness balances the heat, giving the skewers a delightful flavor.
Sriracha: Spice it up! Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the dish and adds a zesty kick.
Garlic powder: A must-have for that savory depth of flavor.
Onion powder: Complements the garlic and enhances the overall taste.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together.
Wooden or metal skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Fresh cilantro: Optional, but it adds a pop of color and freshness when garnished.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can substitute shrimp or tofu for the chicken if you’re looking for a different protein option. Enjoy the process of making these skewers your own!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Creating Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is a straightforward process that brings a burst of flavor to your grill. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This sauce is the heart of your skewers, so make sure it’s well blended. Remember to reserve about 1/4 cup of this sauce for serving later. Trust me, you’ll want it!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, toss the chicken cubes into the bowl with the bang bang sauce. Use your hands or a spatula to coat each piece evenly. Once coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a taste sensation.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to get your grill ready. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. A hot grill is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and ensuring the chicken cooks evenly. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn down until they’re covered with white ash.
Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to skewer! Take your wooden or metal skewers and thread the marinated chicken onto them. Leave a little space between each piece. This spacing helps the chicken cook evenly and allows the heat to circulate. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Now, it’s showtime! Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want to see those lovely grill marks and ensure the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you have a meat thermometer, now’s the time to use it!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender. Serve the skewers with the reserved bang bang sauce on the side. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every spicy, creamy bite!
Tips for Success
Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Experiment with different proteins like shrimp or tofu.
Don’t overcrowd the skewers; space them out for even cooking.
Brush the skewers with a little oil before grilling to prevent sticking.
Equipment Needed
Grill or Grill Pan: A standard outdoor grill works best, but a stovetop grill pan is a great alternative.
Skewers: Use wooden or metal skewers; if using wooden, soak them in water first.
Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining the sauce and marinating the chicken.
Meat Thermometer: Optional, but helpful for checking chicken doneness.
Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Shrimp Skewers: Swap out chicken for shrimp for a quick-cooking alternative. Just adjust the grilling time to 5-7 minutes.
Tofu Skewers: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. Marinate and grill just like the chicken for a delicious plant-based meal.
Vegetable Skewers: Add bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion to the mix. Toss them in the bang bang sauce for a colorful, flavorful addition.
Spicy Bang Bang: Increase the sriracha for an extra kick, or add diced jalapeños to the marinade for a fiery twist.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or mint into the sauce for a refreshing flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp cucumber and avocado salad for a refreshing contrast.
Cold Beverages: Enjoy with a chilled beer or a zesty limeade to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Arrange skewers on a platter and drizzle with extra bang bang sauce for a stunning display.
FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
If you’re looking for alternatives, shrimp and tofu work wonderfully. Just remember to adjust the cooking time for shrimp, as they cook much faster than chicken.
How spicy are these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
The spice level is adjustable! The sriracha adds heat, so feel free to start with less and add more to suit your taste. You can also add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
What sides pair well with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
These skewers go great with jasmine rice, a fresh salad, or even grilled vegetables. They’re versatile enough to complement a variety of sides!
Can I use a grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?
Definitely! A grill pan works just as well. Just make sure to preheat it properly to get those beautiful grill marks on your skewers.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are more than just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavor and creativity. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy and spicy, making them a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re grilling for family or friends, these skewers bring everyone together around the table. The joy of cooking and sharing this dish is truly special. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what really matters—enjoying good food and great company. So fire up that grill and let the deliciousness unfold!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a delicious and flavorful grilled dish featuring marinated chicken cubes coated in a spicy and creamy sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the bang bang sauce. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the sauce for serving later.
Add the chicken cubes to the bowl with the sauce and toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with the reserved bang bang sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the bang bang sauce.
Substitute shrimp or tofu for the chicken for a different protein option.
