Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty dish! They feature chicken pieces grilled on skewers and coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. Perfect for a summer cookout!
Let’s be real, who doesn’t love food on a stick? I can’t resist the crispy bits and creamy sauce! I usually serve these with fresh veggies—keeps things bright and tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal for skewers as it cooks evenly. You can use thighs for extra juiciness. If you’re vegetarian, consider using firm tofu or seitan as a substitute!
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess and helps bind the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great. For a vegan version, try using plant-based mayo.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This brings a sweet and tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, you can make a quick substitute with a mix of sugar, vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Honey or agave nectar could also work if you’re out of sweet chili sauce.
Sriracha: Adjusting this sauce lets you control the heat. If you prefer less spice, try using ketchup with a touch of hot sauce, or a mild chili sauce instead.
How Do You Properly Marinate Chicken for Skewers?
Marinating chicken is crucial for flavor and tenderness. Make sure to coat the pieces thoroughly with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—longer if you have time. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Mix your marinade in a bowl and add the chicken pieces. Ensure every piece is well coated.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. I find that marinating for a few hours works best, but even a quick 30 minutes is helpful.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes before use
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. You’ll spend some time grilling the skewers, so plan for about 1 hour total to enjoy these mouth-watering Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This will be your tasty Bang Bang sauce. Remember, reserve half of it for later use—this will be used for serving and basting!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the remaining sauce. Make sure every piece is coated well! After mixing, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors soak into the chicken!
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking and to get those lovely grill marks!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
After the chicken has marinated, take it out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your soaked wooden skewers. Don’t overcrowd them; give them some space to cook evenly!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’ll know the chicken is done when it’s cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. If you like, you can baste them with some of the reserved marinade while they grill!
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once your chicken skewers are ready, take them off the grill. Drizzle or brush them with the reserved Bang Bang sauce for that extra flavor. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. They look and taste amazing!
Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers hot and savor every bite!
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for mayonnaise. It will give a tangy flavor and a healthier profile. Use the same amount (1/2 cup). If you want a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of olive oil to keep it rich.
Can I Make These Skewers with Other Proteins?
Yes, you can! These Bang Bang skewers work well with shrimp, firm tofu, or even beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; shrimp will cook faster (about 3-4 minutes per side), while beef may need a bit longer depending on the cut.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a grill pan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave for a quick reheating option.
Can I Prepare the Chicken in Advance?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken pieces up to 24 hours ahead. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This helps enhance the flavor, making your skewers even more delicious!
