Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are tasty and fun! Juicy chicken pieces are grilled on skewers and covered in a creamy, spicy sauce that gives them a delightful kick. Perfect for a barbecue!
These skewers make me feel like a grill master, even if I just toss them on the barbecue. Pair with some fresh veggies, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the skewers. They cook evenly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could also use turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Mayonnaise: This adds a creamy texture to the marinade. You could swap in Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor and fewer calories. If you prefer dairy-free options, consider using vegan mayo.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is the star of the dish for that sweet and spicy flavor. If you can’t find it, a mix of honey and a touch of sriracha can create a similar taste. Adjust the amounts to suit your sweetness preference.
Sriracha: Adjust this according to how spicy you want your skewers! If sriracha isn’t your thing, try using sambal oelek or even a bit of hot sauce for a different flavor.
Cilantro or Green Onions: These are perfect toppings. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley works well too, providing a fresh taste. Green onions add a nice crunch and flavor without overpowering the dish.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to infusing flavor and keeping it juicy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Make sure all chicken pieces are evenly coated in the marinade. This ensures every bite is packed with taste.
- It’s best to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for 2 hours in the fridge will deepen the flavor much more.
- When grilling, make sure your grill is preheated. This helps in getting good grill marks and seals in the juices.
- Keep an eye on the chicken. Cooking for too long can dry it out. A cooking time of 6-8 minutes should be perfect!
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, leading to a juicier result!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’re looking at about 10 minutes for prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. If you want extra flavor, up to 2 hours is great! Then, it takes about 8 minutes to grill. Overall, plan for around 50 minutes to 2 hours and 18 minutes, depending on the marinating time you choose.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, begin by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step!
2. Making the Marinade:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. Remember to set aside about 1/4 cup of this sauce for later to use as a dip or drizzle!
3. Marinating the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the remaining marinade. Make sure all the chicken pieces are well-coated in the sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let that marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you’ve got time, up to 2 hours will really enhance the flavor!
4. Grilling the Chicken:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Cooking the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 6-8 minutes. Turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks. You’ll know they’re done when they’re fully cooked through and no longer pink inside.
6. Serving the Skewers:
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with the reserved sauce drizzled on top or as a delicious dip, and don’t forget to garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great for these skewers and will add extra juiciness. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have an egg allergy, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. It will still give you a creamy texture, but make sure to use plain, unsweetened yogurt to maintain the flavor balance.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through, which will help maintain their juicy texture.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This makes it a convenient option for parties or meal prep!
