These Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun twist on chicken bites! Marinated in a tangy and sweet sauce, they are grilled to perfection and super tasty.
I love serving these at parties! The kids go crazy for them, and they disappear fast. Just add your favorite veggies on the skewers, and you’re good to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using chicken thighs for juiciness, but chicken breasts work too. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try tofu or tempeh for a veggie twist!
Oil: Canola or vegetable oil works best for marinating and grilling. You can also use olive oil if you prefer a different flavor, but it has a lower smoke point.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is key for the Bang Bang Sauce. If you can’t find it, mix equal parts ketchup and honey with a dash of red pepper flakes for a similar effect.
Mayonnaise: I like using regular mayo. For a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo if you’re dairy-free.
How Can I Get the Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are my top tips for success:
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. A hot grill gives the chicken those nice char marks.
- Don’t forget to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking!
- Grill the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, only turning it when ready. This helps with caramelization.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil or canola oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water 30 minutes before use)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for extra kick
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of prep time, plus at least 20 minutes for marinating. Total, you can expect around 40-50 minutes from start to finish, including grilling time. Perfect for a quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will create a tasty marinade. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them around until they are nicely coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 20 minutes. If you have time, let them sit in the fridge for up to 2 hours to soak up more flavor!
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, you can whip up the Bang Bang sauce. In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar (or lime juice). Stir until everything is well mixed and smooth. Taste it and adjust the heat level with more sriracha if desired. Set it aside for later!
3. Prepare the Skewers:
Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to thread it onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they have been soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, turning occasionally. You want to cook them until they’re golden brown and cooked through—check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Glaze and Serve:
In the last minute of cooking, brush some of the Bang Bang sauce onto the chicken skewers for a delicious glaze. Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle extra Bang Bang sauce on top or serve it on the side for dipping. If you want, sprinkle some chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish!
Enjoy these Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers as an appetizer, party dish, or exciting dinner option! They are sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Different Proteins for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is the star here, you can easily substitute it with shrimp, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp and tofu usually cook faster than chicken.
What Can I Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair perfectly with a side of rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with grilled veggies or a crunchy coleslaw for added texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on a grill pan over low heat until heated through. You can also enjoy them cold as a salad topping!
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving as it may separate slightly while sitting.
