These Easy Quick Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are fun and delicious! Tender chicken is coated in a tasty spicy sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for BBQs or weeknight dinners!
I can’t resist these skewers, especially with their sweet and spicy kick. Pair them with rice or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. Thighs are juicier, but breasts work fine too. If you prefer a plant-based option, try using cubed tofu or seitan for a meatless version.
Olive Oil: This helps the chicken stay moist and enhances the flavor. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or canola oil are great choices. Choose an oil with a high smoke point for grilling.
Mayonnaise: It provides a creamy base for the sauce. You can swap it for Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo if you want a lighter or dairy-free sauce. Each brings a unique taste!
Sweet Chili Sauce: The star of the sauce! If you don’t have it, you can mix equal parts honey (or maple syrup) and sriracha for a sweet and spicy alternative.
How Do I Grill Chicken Skewers to Perfection?
Grilling chicken skewers might seem tricky, but with a few tips, you can achieve great results! First, ensure your grill is hot enough to sear the chicken, which helps lock in moisture and flavor.
- Even Sizing: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces (about 1 inch) so they cook evenly.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between chicken pieces on the skewers. This allows hot air to circulate and cook the chicken thoroughly.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safely cooked, juicy, and tender.
- Let Them Rest: Once off the grill, let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a more flavorful bite.
Easy Quick Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon lime juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 10-12 minutes to cook. That’s just a total of about 20-25 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, add the chicken cubes and drizzle the olive oil over them. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with oil and seasoning. This will enhance the flavor and help the chicken stay juicy while grilling.
2. Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan:
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature. This ensures that the chicken will sear nicely and get those beautiful grill marks. If using a grill pan, you can add a little oil to help prevent sticking.
3. Thread the Chicken:
Take your prepared skewers and thread the chicken pieces onto them. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve soaked in water to avoid burning.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and golden brown. Always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is grilling, grab a bowl and whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice. Mix until smooth and well combined. This sauce is where all the magic happens, balancing sweet and spicy flavors!
6. Serve:
Once the chicken skewers are done, take them off the grill and brush or drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the hot skewers. You can serve them right away, and feel free to garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra flavor and color!
Enjoy these spicy, creamy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers as an appetizer or as a main dish alongside rice, vegetables, or a refreshing salad. They’re sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Quick Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great choice for skewers. You can use either, depending on your preference!
Can I Make the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and skewers in advance! Just marinate the chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the grill or in the microwave. Add a little extra Bang Bang sauce to refresh the flavors!
Can I Use a Different Sauce?
Definitely! If you want to switch things up, try using a teriyaki sauce, barbecue sauce, or a homemade yogurt dressing for a different twist. Just make sure it complements the flavors of the chicken!
