These Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are super fun and tasty! The chicken is coated with a spicy, creamy sauce that packs a punch, and grilling makes it all the more delicious.
Seriously, my friends can’t get enough of these! You just mix, skewer, and grill. Perfect for a BBQ or a quick dinner when cravings hit. You’ll love how they disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works great for these skewers. If you prefer, thighs can be used for a juicier result. They’re often more flavorful too!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps with cooking. If you need a different oil, avocado oil or canola oil also work well without altering the taste drastically.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is a good substitute or even a pinch of cumin for warmth.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise is the base here, but if you’re looking for lighter options, Greek yogurt can give a similar creaminess with added protein. Adjust the heat with sriracha per your liking!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Skewers Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken skewers right can be tricky, but follow these simple steps for success:
- Marinate the chicken properly! This step infuses flavor. Aim for at least 15 minutes; longer is even better.
- Preheat your grill or pan to medium-high heat. A hot grill sears the chicken, locking in juices and flavor.
- Cook the skewers for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use an instant-read thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy!
With these tips, your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will be tender and bursting with flavor!
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water 30 minutes before grilling)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar (optional, for a little tang)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep, plus 10-15 minutes for cooking on the grill. After marinating, it’s quick to assemble and grill, totaling around 30-45 minutes for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss them well until they are evenly coated with the seasoning. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour in the fridge to deepen the flavors.
2. Prepare for Grilling:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. While the grill is warming up, thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers. Aim for about 4-5 pieces of chicken per skewer to ensure even cooking.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if you like it hotter!
4. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice charred marks. Use tongs to carefully turn them for even cooking.
5. Drizzle and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle them generously with the Bang Bang sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a beautiful and flavorful touch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the skewers immediately with extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful, spicy-sweet chicken skewers with friends or family!
This recipe yields tender, juicy chicken with a smoky char from the grill, perfectly complemented by the creamy and spicy Bang Bang sauce. The fresh parsley adds a vibrant herbal note and a pop of color to your dish. Happy grilling!
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers – FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great substitute. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want more heat, increase the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce or add extra cayenne pepper to the marinade. You can also serve it with sliced fresh jalapeños or a spicy chili sauce on the side!
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can mix the Bang Bang sauce up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container, and give it a good stir before serving to re-emulsify.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken skewers in the oven or microwave, but be careful not to overcook them to keep them tender.
