These Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs are a fun and tasty way to enjoy chicken! Marinated in a spicy sauce and grilled to perfection, they are juicy and full of flavor.
These kabobs are perfect for a party or just a cozy night at home. I love serving them with a cool dipping sauce; it really brings out the yum! Plus, they are super easy to make—who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the star of the dish! You can use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier piece. They add extra flavor but have a bit more fat.
Mayonnaise: This gives a creamy base. Greek yogurt can be a healthier swap with similar texture. It will make the dish lighter if you’re watching calories.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. If you can’t find it, mix honey with a bit of hot sauce as an alternative.
Sriracha: The amount can be adjusted based on your heat level. You can substitute it with any hot sauce you enjoy or use chili flakes for a different kick.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice will work too, though the flavor will be a bit different.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Kabobs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is essential! This step allows all the flavors to soak in. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but an hour is better. Don’t skip the marinade!
- Mix all marinade ingredients well in a bowl.
- Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate.
Also, monitor the grilling time. You want to achieve a nice char without drying out the chicken. Turning them halfway through cooking helps in getting even grill marks.
Finally, brushing some marinade on in the last few minutes adds a boost of flavor and keeps the kabobs moist. Enjoy your kabobs with fresh cilantro; it really elevates the dish!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Kabobs:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Marinade:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Additional Supplies:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. After marinating, you’ll grill the kabobs for about 12 minutes. So, in total, set aside about 1 hour for delicious Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended and smooth. This tasty marinade will give your chicken a lot of flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Make sure each piece is coated nicely. Once they are well coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This step allows the chicken to absorb all those delicious flavors.
3. Soak the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes. This trick helps prevent the skewers from burning on the grill while your chicken cooks!
4. Preheat the Grill:
Now it’s time to get your grill ready! Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Make sure it’s nice and hot for those beautiful grill marks.
5. Assemble the Kabobs:
Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This ensures they cook evenly. If you want, you can add veggies like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor!
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the kabobs for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally so they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re no longer pink inside and have nice grill marks.
7. Glaze with Sauce:
In the last few minutes of grilling, brush some extra marinade onto the chicken for added flavor and a nice glaze. Just be careful not to use any marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken!
8. Serve:
Once your kabobs are fully cooked, take them off the grill. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Grilled Vegetables with These Kabobs?
Absolutely! Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onion would be a great addition. Simply cut them into bite-sized pieces and alternate threading them onto the skewers with the chicken for a colorful and tasty dish.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for mayonnaise. It will give you a similar creamy texture with added protein. You can also use a vegan mayo if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overcook!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the marinade up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using it as the ingredients may separate. This will save you time on cooking day!
