Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are tasty treats that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They’re coated in a yummy, spicy sauce that makes every bite pop with flavor!
These skewers are perfect for a fun dinner or a party snack. I love making a big batch and watching everyone reach for seconds—it’s hard to resist! 🌶️🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is ideal since it grills well and holds flavor. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier texture or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the sauce that adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo as a substitute.
Sriracha Sauce: The heat level is adjustable with sriracha. You can swap it for hot sauce, chili paste, or a milder sauce for a less spicy flavor.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps balance the spice. You can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan version, or even sugar if you’re in a pinch.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky flavor, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can work too. Just note that it won’t have the same depth.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but following a few key steps can help you get great results every time. A good marinating time is crucial; let the chicken sit at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours is better to develop robust flavors.
- Preheat the grill properly to medium-high heat to achieve perfect sear marks.
- Make sure the chicken pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes after grilling. This helps retain juices.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Grilling:
- 8-10 wooden or metal skewers
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare and mix your ingredients, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken (up to 2 hours if you want more flavor). Grill time will take around 10-15 minutes. So, overall, you can have these delicious skewers ready in about 1 hour including prep and cooking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers don’t need soaking, so you can skip this step if you’re using them!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. Set aside about 1/4 cup of this sauce for serving later.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl with the remaining marinade. Stir them around to ensure every piece is coated nicely. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. It’s best to let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit longer (up to 2 hours) will enhance the flavor!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan on medium-high heat. This will help achieve those lovely grill marks and cook the chicken perfectly.
5. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto the soaked skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn. The chicken is ready when it’s cooked through and has a nice golden color. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers warm, drizzled with the reserved sauce and topped with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. Feel free to offer extra dipping sauce on the side for more flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they are juicier and more flavorful. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces like you would with chicken breasts and follow the recipe as directed. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs can take a minute longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Sriracha?
No worries! You can substitute sriracha with any hot sauce you have on hand, such as Frank’s RedHot or even a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat. Just adjust the quantity to your taste, and feel free to add more honey if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
How Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
To store leftovers, place cooked skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, you can microwave them for a minute or two or warm them on a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Just be careful not to overheat to prevent the chicken from drying out!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the sauce up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and give it a good stir before using. If it thickens too much, just add a splash of water or vinegar to reach your desired consistency before serving.
