If you love dishes that pack a punch of flavor and are irresistibly easy to make, then you are going to adore this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe. Juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant blend of savory soy, zesty ginger, and rich sesame oil get grilled to perfection and paired with a creamy, sweet, and spicy bang bang sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients is key to achieving that perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors in this dish. Each element plays its part: the chicken provides a juicy base, the marinade infuses a delicate Asian-inspired touch, and the sauce ties everything together with a creamy kick.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Opt for thighs for extra juiciness and flavor over breast meat.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds savory umami depth; use gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: A little goes a long way in lending that unmistakable nutty aroma.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brightens and balances the marinade with gentle acidity.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses robust, aromatic flavor throughout the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Brings a fresh zing that complements the marinade’s richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water: Prevents burning on the grill and makes handling easier.
- For the Bang Bang Sauce: Combining ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for heat preference), 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 teaspoon lime juice creates the luscious, vibrant sauce that defines this recipe.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
First, mix the chicken pieces with soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, along with salt and pepper in a large bowl. This marinade works magic by tenderizing the meat while infusing layers of flavor. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—if you have more time, go for up to 4 hours for a deeper taste explosion.
Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken marinates, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. This sauce strikes the perfect balance between spicy, sweet, tangy, and creamy—exactly what makes the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe so wonderfully addictive.
Step 3: Skewer and Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, ensuring the pieces are evenly spaced. Place them on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through with beautiful grill marks and a slight char. This grilling step seals in all the marinade’s goodness and creates that irresistible smoky flavor.
Step 4: Serve with Bang Bang Sauce
Transfer the skewers to a serving platter and generously drizzle with the prepared bang bang sauce or offer it on the side for dipping. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the smoky, tender chicken for the ultimate flavor combo.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top to add a fresh crunch and a hint of nuttiness. These small touches not only brighten the dish visually but also add layers of texture that make each bite interesting and delightful.
Side Dishes
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers go hand in hand with steamed jasmine rice or fragrant coconut rice for a comforting meal. Alternatively, serve them alongside crisp lettuce wraps or a light Asian slaw to introduce fresh, vibrant contrast and lighten the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, plate the skewers over a bed of spiralized cucumber or noodles tossed in light soy sauce and sesame oil. You can also arrange them as part of a colorful appetizer platter with sliced bell peppers, carrot sticks, and dipping sauces, making your gathering truly memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooked chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the bang bang sauce separate to maintain its creamy texture and reap the full flavor when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked, marinated skewers by wrapping them tightly and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before grilling. The fresh bang bang sauce is best prepared fresh, but you can freeze it briefly if needed—just whisk well after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, place skewers on a grill pan or skillet over medium heat until warmed through and lightly crisped again. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that fantastic grilled texture. Reapply some bang bang sauce right before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-grill taste.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While thighs are juicier and more forgiving, chicken breasts work well too. Just be careful not to overcook them, as breast meat can dry out faster.
How spicy is the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe?
The heat level depends on how much sriracha you add to the sauce. You can easily adjust the spice to your liking, from mild to fiery, making this recipe versatile for all palates.
Do I have to soak the wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent them from burning and makes them safer and easier to handle.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Just use gluten-free soy sauce, and verify any other ingredients are free from gluten. This makes the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
What can I serve with bang bang chicken skewers for a balanced meal?
Pair the skewers with a fresh vegetable salad or steamed greens and a serving of rice or noodles to round out the meal with fiber, vitamins, and carbs.
Final Thoughts
I can hardly wait for you to try this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but comes together effortlessly. Perfect for impressing guests, elevating a casual dinner, or simply treating yourself to something deliciously vibrant. Once you make it, this is sure to become a favorite you’ll turn to again and again.
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 57 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and spicy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers made with tender marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, tangy bang bang sauce. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or a main course served over rice or lettuce wraps.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken marinates, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to get it ready for cooking the skewers.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers evenly, ensuring the pieces are secure and spaced for even cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through with a slight char on the edges.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken skewers to a platter and either drizzle them with the prepared bang bang sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be substituted with chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
- Prepare the bang bang sauce and marinate the chicken a day in advance to save time on the day of serving.
- These skewers can also be served over cooked rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.
