Introduction

Are you ready to take your taste buds on a delicious adventure? Whether you’re grilling on a weekend, preparing a weeknight dinner, or hosting a party, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the ideal dish that combines spice, sweetness, and savory goodness in every bite. This recipe not only offers the perfect balance of flavors but also provides a great excuse to gather around the grill and enjoy some mouthwatering food with friends or family. Read on for everything you need to know to make these flavorful skewers a regular feature in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

When it comes to meals that hit all the right notes, few can compare to Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Here’s why this recipe should be at the top of your list:

Quick and Easy to Prepare

Not everyone has hours to spend in the kitchen, and this recipe understands that. In less than an hour, you’ll be able to prep, marinate, grill, and enjoy a plate of perfectly cooked chicken skewers. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple to follow and doesn’t require any special skills or fancy equipment.

Perfectly Balanced Flavors

One of the things that sets Bang Bang Chicken Skewers apart is their bold and exciting flavor profile. The sauce is a mouthwatering blend of sweetness and heat, creating a delightful contrast. You get the richness of mayonnaise combined with the tang of rice vinegar, the spice of sriracha, and the sweetness of chili sauce – a truly irresistible combination that keeps you coming back for more.

Customizable to Your Taste

You’re in control when it comes to the spice level! If you’re someone who loves a kick, the sriracha and chili sauce will do the trick. But if you prefer a milder version, you can adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your preference. The versatility of this recipe makes it a go-to for all types of tastebuds.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual dinner with the family, a barbecue with friends, or a special celebration, these skewers are the perfect fit. Their finger-food nature makes them ideal for parties, and you can easily make them in large batches to accommodate a crowd. Plus, they’re always a crowd-pleaser!

What Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Before we dive into the specifics of making these tasty skewers, let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so special.

The Origin of Bang Bang Sauce

The Bang Bang sauce is the key ingredient that brings the heat and the flavor to the skewers. The sauce itself is typically made with a blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, garlic, and rice vinegar. It’s named “Bang Bang” because of the bold flavors that hit you right away – spicy, sweet, and creamy – all at once.

The dish has grown in popularity due to its irresistible flavor combination, and though it originated in Asian-inspired cuisine, it has quickly become a favorite at dinner tables and restaurants around the world.

Why Skewers?

You might wonder why the chicken is served on skewers. Skewering chicken offers several advantages. First, it helps the chicken cook evenly, ensuring each piece is tender and juicy. Second, skewers make the chicken easy to serve, whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a more formal gathering. Plus, the grilling process imparts a delightful smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the Bang Bang sauce.

Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Chicken and Marinade

The first step in creating your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is selecting your chicken and making the marinade. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (either works, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful).
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce – This adds a bit of salty umami to the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil – This helps the chicken stay moist and tender during grilling.
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice – Adds a fresh, zesty flavor to balance out the richness of the sauce.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced – Garlic brings an aromatic depth to the marinade.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, seasoning the chicken for added flavor.

Bang Bang Sauce

The sauce is what truly elevates the skewers. Here’s the list of ingredients for the perfect Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup of mayonnaise – The creamy base for the sauce.
• ¼ cup of sweet chili sauce – Provides sweetness and a bit of tang.
• 2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce – Adjust according to your desired spice level.
• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar – Adds a touch of acidity and balances out the creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon of honey – A little sweetness to round out the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder – For an additional layer of flavor.

Ingredients Table:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken breast/thighs	1 lb
Soy sauce	2 tbsp
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Lemon juice	1 tbsp
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Sweet chili sauce	¼ cup
Sriracha sauce	2 tbsp
Rice vinegar	1 tbsp
Honey	1 tsp
Garlic powder	1 tsp

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Now that you’ve got all the ingredients, let’s break down how to make these delicious skewers step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized cubes. This allows the marinade to penetrate the chicken more effectively, ensuring that every piece is flavorful. Place the chicken cubes into a bowl and add the soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.

Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While your chicken marinates, it’s time to prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic powder. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning. If you prefer more heat, add extra sriracha; if you like it sweeter, increase the honey. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

Once the chicken is ready, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece to ensure that they cook evenly.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The outside should be crispy and golden brown, while the inside remains juicy and tender.

Step 5: Coat with Sauce

After grilling, brush the skewers with a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce. For an added touch of flavor, drizzle some extra sauce over the top before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Choose the Right Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the ideal choice for this recipe. They’re naturally juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, making your skewers tender and moist. However, chicken breasts can be used if that’s what you prefer.

Marinate for Maximum Flavor

Don’t rush the marination process. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, let it marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the chicken to absorb all of the aromatic flavors of the marinade.

Grilling Tips

When grilling the skewers, avoid overcrowding the grill. If necessary, cook the skewers in batches to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly. Also, be sure to flip the skewers halfway through to achieve an even char on both sides.

Adjusting Spice Levels

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. If you’re not a fan of too much heat, simply reduce the amount of sriracha or sweet chili sauce in the Bang Bang sauce. On the other hand, if you’re craving more spice, don’t hesitate to add extra sriracha or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide range of side dishes. Here are some ideas to make your meal complete:

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy, aromatic base that complements the bold flavors of the skewers.
• Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus make for a healthy and tasty side.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the chicken.

Pairing with Beverages

Pair these skewers with an iced tea or a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. Both options provide a refreshing contrast to the heat of the dish.

Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

While the classic recipe is always a hit, why not mix things up with some variations?

• Bang Bang Shrimp Skewers: Swap out the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist on this beloved dish.
• Vegetarian Bang Bang Skewers: For a plant-based version, use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken for the same delicious flavor.
• Grilled Veggies: Add bell peppers, onions, and zucchini to the skewers for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Nutrition Information

While these skewers are undeniably tasty, you might be wondering about their nutritional value. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition per serving:

• Calories per serving: 250-300
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Fat: 12g

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten things up, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on the sodium content.

FAQ:

What are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are grilled chicken pieces coated in a creamy, spicy sauce made with sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise, and sriracha, creating a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and creaminess.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor. However, marinating overnight in the fridge will enhance the taste even further.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in the oven?

Yes! If you prefer to cook these in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the skewers on a sheet pan for about 10-12 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are an absolute treat for anyone who loves a combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd of guests, these skewers will always impress. Try it today and make your next meal a flavorful one!

Ready to fire up the grill? Let us know how your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers turn out – we’d love to hear from you!