Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: Prepare to embark on a flavor adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine succulent, perfectly grilled chicken, infused with a symphony of sweet, spicy, and savory notes. These aren’t just any chicken skewers; they’re a culinary experience.

While the exact origins of “Bang Bang” sauce are debated, it’s widely believed to have originated in China, with variations popping up across Asian cuisine. The name itself suggests the explosive flavor profile that awaits you – a “bang” of spice followed by a lingering sweetness that’s utterly addictive. This vibrant sauce has captured hearts (and stomachs!) worldwide, becoming a beloved staple in restaurants and home kitchens alike.

What makes Bang Bang Chicken Skewers so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The tender, juicy chicken, often marinated to perfection, is complemented by the creamy, slightly tangy, and undeniably flavorful Bang Bang sauce. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly versatile – perfect as an appetizer, a light lunch, or even a satisfying main course. Plus, the skewers make it fun and easy to eat! Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• For the Skewers & Garnish:
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for grilling
• Chopped green onions, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First things first, let’s get that chicken prepped! In a medium bowl, combine the chicken cubes with soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. I like to use my hands to really massage the flavors in, but a spoon works just fine too.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be! This step is crucial for tender and tasty chicken.

Making the Bang Bang Sauce:

1. While the chicken is marinating, let’s whip up that amazing Bang Bang sauce! In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Taste the sauce and adjust the ingredients to your liking. If you want it spicier, add more sriracha. If you prefer it sweeter, add a touch more honey. This is your chance to customize it to your perfect flavor profile!
3. Once you’re happy with the taste, cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to use it. Chilling it allows the flavors to meld together even more.

Assembling the Skewers:

1. Now it’s time to assemble the skewers. Take your soaked bamboo skewers (soaking them prevents them from burning on the grill) and thread the marinated chicken cubes onto them.
2. I usually aim for about 4-5 chicken cubes per skewer, but you can adjust this based on the size of your chicken and your preference.
3. Make sure the chicken pieces are snug but not too tightly packed on the skewer, allowing for even cooking.
4. Repeat until all the chicken is used up.

Grilling the Chicken Skewers:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
2. Brush the assembled chicken skewers with vegetable oil. This will help them get a nice sear and prevent them from drying out.
3. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Keep a close eye on the skewers while they’re grilling, as they can cook quickly. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Garnishing:

1. Now for the best part – serving! Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a platter.
2. Generously drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the skewers. Don’t be shy, the sauce is what makes these skewers so irresistible!
3. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and added flavor.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy! These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are perfect as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a party snack.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to control the spice level. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Chicken Thighs: You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay more moist during grilling.
• Oven Baking: If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the skewers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Air Fryer: Another great option is to cook the skewers in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can use firm tofu instead of chicken. Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into cubes and marinate it in the same way as the chicken.
• Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple to the skewers for a sweet and savory twist. The pineapple will caramelize on the grill and add a delicious tropical flavor.
• Peanut Butter: For a richer and nuttier flavor, add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the Bang Bang sauce.
• Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken and make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and grill the skewers.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these skewers with rice, noodles, or a side salad for a complete meal. They’re also great as part of a buffet or potluck.
• Storage: Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.

Detailed Explanation of Key Ingredients:

Chicken:

I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they are lean and cook quickly. However, as mentioned earlier, chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative if you prefer a richer flavor and more moisture. When cutting the chicken, aim for uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Larger pieces might take longer to cook through, while smaller pieces could dry out.

Soy Sauce:

Soy sauce is a key ingredient in the marinade, adding a savory umami flavor and helping to tenderize the chicken. I typically use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.

Rice Vinegar:

Rice vinegar adds a subtle tanginess to both the marinade and the Bang Bang sauce, balancing out the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients. It’s milder than other types of vinegar, making it a perfect choice for Asian-inspired dishes. If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar, but use a smaller amount as they are more acidic.

Cornstarch:

Cornstarch is used in the marinade to help create a light coating on the chicken, which will crisp up nicely on the grill. It also helps to thicken the marinade and bind it to the chicken. If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute tapioca starch or potato starch.

Ginger and Garlic:

Fresh ginger and garlic are essential for adding aromatic flavor to the marinade. I prefer to use freshly grated ginger and minced garlic for the best flavor. You can use ginger paste or garlic paste as a convenient alternative, but the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant.

Mayonnaise:

Mayonnaise forms the base of the Bang Bang sauce, providing a creamy and rich texture. I recommend using a good-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor. You can use light mayonnaise to reduce the fat content, but the sauce may not be as creamy.

Sweet Chili Sauce:

Sweet chili sauce adds a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the Bang Bang sauce. It’s readily available in most supermarkets

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are truly a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss. From the juicy, perfectly grilled chicken to the creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet Bang Bang sauce, every bite is an absolute delight. I genuinely believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and easy grilling. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at your next barbecue.

But why exactly are these skewers so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The chicken is tender and slightly charred, providing a wonderful smoky base. Then comes the Bang Bang sauce – oh, that sauce! It’s creamy, thanks to the mayonnaise, but the sriracha and chili garlic sauce bring the heat, while the sweet chili sauce adds a touch of sweetness that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a symphony of flavors that will have your taste buds singing.

Beyond the incredible taste, these skewers are also incredibly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer at your next party – they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Or, make them the star of your dinner plate alongside some fluffy rice and steamed broccoli for a complete and satisfying meal. For a lighter option, try serving them over a bed of crisp lettuce with some shredded carrots and cucumbers for a delicious and healthy salad.

Looking for variations? I’ve got you covered! If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can easily substitute it with shrimp or tofu. For shrimp, simply adjust the grilling time accordingly – they cook much faster than chicken. If you’re using tofu, be sure to press it well to remove excess moisture before marinating and grilling. You can also experiment with different levels of spice. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sriracha and chili garlic sauce. For those who like it extra hot, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce. Another fun variation is to add a squeeze of lime juice to the Bang Bang sauce for a touch of acidity that brightens up the flavors. You could even try adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. The possibilities are endless!

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. The key to truly unlocking the magic of these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers lies in the quality of your ingredients and the attention to detail in the preparation. Don’t skimp on the marinade time – it’s crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor and ensuring it stays juicy on the grill. And be sure to taste the Bang Bang sauce as you make it, adjusting the ingredients to your liking.

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and create your own culinary masterpiece.

Once you’ve made them, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What did you serve them with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create and share recipes that you’ll love. Happy grilling!