Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are tasty chicken pieces, grilled to perfection and coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. They make a fun and easy dish for any meal or gathering!
These skewers are super easy to whip up. I love serving them at parties—watching everyone enjoy that zesty kick is a blast! Plus, they’re perfect for a quick dinner too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is lean and cooks quickly, making it a great choice for skewers. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs instead—they’re juicier and add more flavor.
Mayonnaise: This creamy base helps keep the chicken tender. If you’re avoiding mayo, try Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative. It still adds creaminess and a bit of tang!
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds a nice sweetness to the marinade. If you don’t have it, you can mix honey with a bit of hot sauce as a substitute to get a similar sweet and spicy flavor.
Sriracha: This sauce gives heat. Adjust the amount to fit your taste. If you prefer a milder option, you can use a dash of red pepper flakes or omit it entirely.
Garlic Powder: Balanced flavor is essential, and garlic powder is easy to use. You can also use fresh minced garlic if you prefer its stronger flavor. Just remember that fresh garlic can be more potent!
How Do I Ensure My Skewers Are Cooked Perfectly?
The key to grilling chicken skewers is even cooking for a juicy texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. This prevents burning and helps the skewers hold up on the grill.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for even cooking. This helps your chicken get those nice grill marks!
- Leave space between each piece on the skewer so heat circulates properly. This ensures everything cooks evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C); this guarantees it’s fully cooked.
Following these tips will lead to delicious chicken skewers that are tasty and visually appealing. Enjoy your grilling!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Skewering:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken (you can marinate for up to 2 hours for more flavor). Add an additional 10-12 minutes for grilling. In total, make sure to allow at least 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This keeps them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, garlic powder, grated ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until everything is combined and smooth.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Stir well so every piece is coated with that delicious mixture. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours for even better flavor.
4. Preheat the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will ensure your skewers cook evenly once they hit the grill!
5. Skewer the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken pieces and thread them onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. You can fit about 4-5 pieces on each skewer, depending on their size.
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place the prepared skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is golden brown, has lovely grill marks, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving platter. If you want, you can drizzle some extra sauce over them or serve with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping.
8. Garnish:
Finish off by sprinkling fresh chopped cilantro over the skewers for a nice pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with friends and family!
Can I Use Different Proteins for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken breast is a great choice, you can also use shrimp, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If using shrimp, adjust the cooking time to about 5-7 minutes on the grill, since they cook faster. For pork or tofu, make sure they are cut into similar-sized pieces as the chicken for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a substitute for mayonnaise, try Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. It still provides creaminess and pairs well with the other flavors. You can also use sour cream or a vegan mayo if you prefer a plant-based option. Just keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the flavor slightly!
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your grill or oven and warm the skewers for a few minutes until heated through. You can also gently microwave them, but be cautious as this can dry out the chicken.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the marinade ahead of time! Prepare it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before adding the chicken. This can help save time on busy days!
