Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a delightful combination of tender chicken breast marinated and grilled to perfection, then drizzled with a spicy and tangy Bang Bang sauce. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. The sweet and spicy sauce made with Sriracha and sweet chili sauce gives these skewers a deliciously bold flavor.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Produce
- 1 bunch Cilantro, chopped for garnish
Condiments
- 2 tbsp Sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 1 tbsp Lime juice
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
Baking & Spices
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Oils & Vinegars
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
Other
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are all relatively the same size for even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce, and 1 tablespoon honey. Adjust the amount of Sriracha according to your preferred spice level.
Step 4: Prepare the Skewers
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
- Grill the Chicken: Brush the skewers with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
Step 6: Serve
- Drizzle with Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle generously with the Bang Bang sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top for a fresh burst of flavor.
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes:
- Marinating Time: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, let it sit for a few hours in the refrigerator.
- Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is hot enough to sear the chicken, creating a nice char without drying out the meat.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
- Spicy Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha sauce in the Bang Bang sauce to make it milder or spicier according to your taste.
- Oven Option: If you don’t have a grill, bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Keto and Low-Carb Version
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 bunch Cilantro, chopped for garnish
- 2 tbsp Sweet chili sauce (sugar-free)
- 1 tbsp Honey (sugar-free substitute)
- 1 tbsp Lime juice
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut and season the chicken as described above.
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: Use sugar-free sweet chili sauce and a sugar-free honey substitute to make the sauce.
- Assemble and Grill: Follow the same instructions for grilling.
- Serve: Drizzle the grilled chicken with the sauce and garnish with cilantro.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, chicken thighs can be used for this recipe. They are juicier and can provide a richer flavor.
Q: Can I prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Q: What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
A: These skewers pair well with a side of rice, salad, or grilled vegetables. They are also great as an appetizer.
Q: Can I cook these skewers in the oven?
A: Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Can I make these skewers spicy?
A: Yes, increase the amount of Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for extra heat.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or appetizer. The combination of tender, juicy chicken with the sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce is irresistible. Whether you’re grilling for a summer cookout or baking in the oven for a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy these skewers with your favorite sides and savor the bold, delightful flavors. Happy cooking
