When the weather warms up, nothing quite beats the thrill of firing up the grill and savoring the first bites of a perfectly charred meal. That’s how I discovered my go-to summer dish: the Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. One sunny afternoon, I found myself sifting through my pantry and stumbled upon a bottle of sriracha, a few leftover chicken breasts, and some smoky spices that were just begging to be combined.
These skewers quickly became a family favorite thanks to their juicy, tender chicken and the irresistible, creamy Bang Bang Sauce that adds an extra kick of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking to jazz up dinner on a Tuesday night, these skewers are a breeze to whip up and sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. With only a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of just 15 minutes, you’ll wonder how something so delicious could be so easy! Let’s dive into this flavor-packed recipe that’s destined to make your summer evenings unforgettable.
Why are Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe is beginner-friendly, making it perfect for home cooks of all levels.
Irresistibly Flavorful: The rich Bang Bang Sauce adds a creamy, spicy kick that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.
Time-Saving Delight: Ready in just 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal that fits right into your busy week.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these skewers will impress your guests and delight your family alike.
Customizable Ingredients: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary needs while keeping the vibrant flavors intact.
Dive into these tantalizing skewers that are sure to brighten up your dinner table!
Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – 1.5 lbs of chicken gives you juicy, tender skewers that are perfect for grilling.
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon helps keep the chicken moist and enhances flavor.
• Salt – 1 teaspoon is essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon adds a mild heat that balances the spices.
• Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon infuses a warm, aromatic touch into the chicken.
• Smoked paprika – ½ teaspoon adds a depth of flavor with a hint of smoky sweetness.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
• Mayonnaise – ½ cup (or use ¼ cup mayo + ¼ cup Greek yogurt) creates a creamy base for the sauce.
• Sriracha – 2 tablespoons bring the spice and a tangy twist that makes this sauce irresistible.
• Honey or sugar – 1 tablespoon balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
• Rice vinegar or lime juice – 1 tablespoon brightens up the sauce with a refreshing zing.
For Skewering
• Skewers – 8-10 skewers are needed to hold these delicious chicken pieces together while grilling.
Get ready to savor the Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers that will make your taste buds sing!
How to Make Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.
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Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the chicken with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss until every piece is coated in the spice blend.
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Assemble the Skewers: Thread the seasoned chicken chunks onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
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Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grilling pan to medium-high. You want it hot enough to sizzle when the chicken touches the surface but not so hot that it burns.
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Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully charred and cooked through.
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Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey (or sugar), and rice vinegar (or lime juice) until smooth and creamy.
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Serve: Place the grilled chicken skewers on a serving platter and drizzle or serve alongside the Bang Bang Sauce for a delicious dipping experience.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Variations
Feel free to experiment with these variations to create your own unique twist on the classic recipe!
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Spicy Twist: Add more sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick, perfect for heat lovers who crave that fiery flavor.
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Citrus Zing: Substitute lime juice for rice vinegar in the sauce to brighten it up with a refreshing citrus note; it’s a delightful change!
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Herbed Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the Bang Bang Sauce for a vibrant, aromatic lift that adds a beautiful touch.
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Vegan Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu or plant-based chicken, ensuring to press the tofu to remove excess moisture for better grilling results.
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Sweet & Savory: Try maple syrup instead of honey for a richer sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky spices of the chicken.
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Crunchy Addition: Top your skewers with crushed peanuts for a delightful crunch and a touch of nutty flavor that complements the sauce beautifully.
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Mediterranean Flair: Use a mix of spices such as oregano and cumin instead of smoked paprika for a Middle Eastern-inspired flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Veggie Skewers: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes onto the skewers alongside the chicken for a colorful and nutritious addition that enhances every bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken by mixing the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, then cut the chicken into chunks and combine them up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the Bang Bang Sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When it’s time to cook, simply thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill as directed, ensuring a delicious meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
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Choose the Right Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra moisture and flavor, ensuring that your skewers are juicy and tender.
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Even Sizes: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces (1 to 1.5 inches) for consistent cooking, preventing undercooked or overcooked chunks.
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Marinate for Flavor: If time permits, let the seasoned chicken marinate for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors before grilling.
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Watch the Grill Temp: Keep your grill at medium-high heat to achieve a perfect char without burning the outside while leaving the inside juicy.
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Serve Fresh: Enjoy the Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers right off the grill for maximum flavor and tenderness; they’re best enjoyed fresh!
Storage Tips for Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Fridge: Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are cooled completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Lay them flat in the freezer, then stack for efficient use of space.
Reheating: Reheat the skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also pop them in the microwave for quicker heating, but the oven will keep them crispy.
Bang Bang Sauce Storage: Keep any leftover sauce in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. This creamy dip is perfect for using on other dishes as well!
What to Serve with Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Elevate your meal experience by pairing these flavorful skewers with delightful sides and drinks!
- Crispy Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the spicy, creamy Bang Bang Sauce.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn adds a satisfying texture while enhancing the summer vibe of your meal.
- Quinoa Salad: This nutrient-packed side offers a light, nutty taste that balances the bold flavors of the chicken.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining Bang Bang Sauce, enhancing each bite!
- Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Fresh, cool veggies add a burst of color and a crunchy element to your meal, refreshing the palate.
- Malty Beer or Citrus Iced Tea: Pair with a chilled craft beer or refreshing iced tea for a delightful drink option that complements the spice.
- Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a rich, creamy dessert that provides a luscious contrast to the savory skewers.
Make your dinner unforgettable by transforming these skewers into a full feast that’ll leave everyone wanting more!
Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my chicken is ripe and ready for skewering?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for pieces that are bright pink or light red, with no dark spots or discoloration. Fresh chicken should feel firm and not slimy. If you’re using frozen chicken, ensure it’s completely thawed before cutting it into chunks for skewering.
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How should I store leftover chicken skewers?
Very! To keep your leftover Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain their tenderness and flavor.
Can I freeze my chicken skewers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked skewers for up to 3 months. To do this, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Arrange them flat without stacking first. Once frozen, stack the bags for efficient storage. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
What if my chicken skewers come out dry?
Oh no! If your chicken skewers turn out dry, it’s likely due to overcooking or using a lean cut. To ensure juicy meat in the future, keep an eye on the grilling time and consider marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This adds moisture and flavor, helping keep them tender and delicious.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for pets, avoid feeding them any skewered meat with spices or sauces. For allergies, be cautious of the mayonnaise and sriracha in the Bang Bang Sauce. You can easily swap mayonnaise for a vegan alternative and adjust the sriracha for spice levels to cater to any dietary restrictions.
Savor the Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for a Fun Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the chicken into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors well.
- In a bowl, mix the chicken with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss until every piece is coated in the spice blend.
- Thread the seasoned chicken chunks onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Heat your grill or grilling pan to medium-high.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully charred and cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey (or sugar), and rice vinegar (or lime juice) until smooth and creamy.
- Place the grilled chicken skewers on a serving platter and drizzle or serve alongside the Bang Bang Sauce for a delicious dipping experience.
