Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a zesty sauce and grilled to perfection on skewers. They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat!
Honestly, I can’t resist the creamy sauce that goes with them. It’s the perfect mix of spicy and sweet! Serve them at a party, and I guarantee they’ll disappear fast! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe as they cook evenly. For a twist, consider using chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Mayonnaise: This gives the skewers a creamy texture and balances the heat. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or vegan mayo if you’re avoiding eggs.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds a nice sweetness. If you can’t find it, mix a bit of sugar or honey with a little vinegar or soy sauce as a substitute.
Sriracha: Adjust this based on your spice tolerance. If you prefer less heat, try using a milder sauce like salsa or omit it altogether. For more heat, add a spicy chili paste.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice can work just as well, or use vinegar in a pinch.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is crucial for enhancing the chicken’s taste and tenderness. Here’s a simple way to do it:
- Mix your marinade ingredients until well combined.
- Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly in the marinade for even flavor.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, aim for 2 hours—this allows the flavors to penetrate deeper.
- Don’t forget to reserve some marinade for dipping later!
Using this method, you’ll have chicken that’s bursting with flavor, perfect for grilling. Enjoy your skewers!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust based on spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes if using wooden skewers)
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken (up to 2 hours if you want extra flavor). Cooking on the grill will take about 10-15 minutes. So, in total, expect around 1 to 2 hours depending on your marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a good-sized bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir until everything is well blended—you want it nice and smooth!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take out 1/4 cup of your marinade to use later (this will be your dipping sauce). Now, add the chicken pieces to the rest of the marinade and toss them well to coat. Once coated, cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will give you even more flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, go ahead and preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will help the skewers cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks!
4. Assemble Skewers:
Once your chicken is marinated, take your soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. Make sure to leave a little space between the pieces so they can cook properly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You should see nice grill marks too!
6. Serve:
Before you serve, drizzle the reserved marinade over the skewers for an extra kick of flavor, or use it as a yummy dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and put lime wedges on the side for a nice citrus touch!
7. Enjoy:
Your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are now ready to devour! They go perfectly with a side of rice or a refreshing salad to make a complete meal. Enjoy your deliciously spicy and creamy creation!
Can I Use Another Protein Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the grilling time; shrimp will cook in about 3-5 minutes, while tofu and veggies might need 5-7 minutes depending on the size.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it, and remember to toss the chicken in the marinade just prior to grilling for best flavor.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quick fix, but grilling them again will help regain some of that delicious char!
Can I Use Store-Bought Marinade?
Certainly! Just choose a sweet chili or teriyaki marinade that you like. If using store-bought, check the ingredients for sriracha or other spices to adjust according to your taste. This can save time and still yield delicious results!
