Name: Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 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; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce; 2 tablespoons sriracha (or more, to taste); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon honey; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 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 (optional)

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Introduction to Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Ah, dinner time. For busy moms and professionals like myself, finding the perfect dish can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That’s where Bang Bang Chicken Skewers come into play! They’re quick, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to whip up. Picture succulent chunks of chicken, kissed by a spicy, creamy sauce, all neatly threaded onto skewers. It’s an impressive dish that provides a burst of flavor without taking hours in the kitchen. Trust me, these skewers are the ideal solution for a hectic weeknight or when you want to dazzle friends during a weekend cookout!

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a celebration of flavor and simplicity! They come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for a busy evening. Plus, the kids and adults alike will adore the tangy sauce that dances on your taste buds. It’s a fail-proof way to impress your family or guests without spending all day in the kitchen. After one bite, you’ll quickly understand why this dish has won my heart!

Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Creating Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is a delightful culinary journey, starting with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Bite-sized, tender cubes are perfect for grilling.
Soy sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor and essential moisture to the chicken.
Rice vinegar: A splash of acidity that brightens the dish. You can use apple cider vinegar in a pinch.
Cornstarch: Helps to coat the chicken, creating a delightful texture during grilling.
Ginger: Freshly grated ginger gives a subtle warmth and depth that’s iconic in Asian cuisine.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds that irresistible aromatic kick that makes everything better!
Salt and black pepper: The basic seasoning duo to enhance all the flavors.
Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the Bang Bang sauce, providing richness.
Sweet chili sauce: Brings sweetness and a touch of heat for a balanced flavor.
Sriracha: This gives a spicy kick! Adjust it to your taste preference.
Honey: For natural sweetness, counteracting the sour notes in the sauce.
Garlic powder: A convenient alternative to fresh garlic, bringing additional flavor.
Red pepper flakes: Optional, for those who like an extra heat factor!
Bamboo skewers: Perfect for threading the chicken; soak them to prevent burning on the grill.
Vegetable oil: A light brush onto the skewers ensures they grill without sticking.
Chopped green onions: A fresh garnish that brings color and a pop of flavor.
Sesame seeds: Optional, but they add a nutty touch to the finished dish.

For exact measurements, check towards the bottom of the article where you’ll find the full recipe available for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1 – Marinate the Chicken

First, grab a medium-sized bowl and toss in your chicken cubes. It’s a good idea to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. Add in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the chicken is well-coated. Don’t be shy; get your hands in there! Cover the bowl, and let the flavors meld in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for an even richer taste.

Step 2 – Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, let’s make the 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. This sauce is like a flavor explosion! Give it a good mix until smooth, then pop it in the fridge to chill. This will help set the flavors, making the sauce even more divine.

Step 3 – Assemble the Skewers

Next up, let’s thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Grab those soaked bamboo skewers and slide the chicken pieces onto them. It’s like putting together a delicious puzzle! Make sure to leave a bit of space between each cube to ensure even cooking. You don’t want overcrowded skewers; that can lead to “oops, it’s undercooked” moments.

Step 4 – Preheat the Grill

Assemble your skewers and prepare the grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat, which is perfect for getting those delightful grill marks. Before placing the skewers on, brush the grates with a little vegetable oil. This helps avoid that tragic sticking situation we all dread. A little oil goes a long way here!

Step 5 – Grill the Skewers

Now comes the exciting part! Place the chicken skewers on the grill and close the lid. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them to get nice and charred, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Keep an eye on them; nobody likes dry chicken! Use a meat thermometer to ensure you hit that sweet spot without overcooking.

Step 6 – Serve and Enjoy

Once your skewers are perfectly grilled, it’s time to serve! Take them off the grill and place them on a platter. Drizzle with the creamy Bang Bang sauce, then sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if you’re using them. This presentation not only looks stunning but adds a fresh flavor kick. Now, dig in and savor every bite of these delightful Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!

Tips for Success

Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
For extra heat, don’t hesitate to crank up the sriracha or red pepper flakes in the sauce.
Keep tuna out of a Sinking Ship: Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking the chicken.
Marinate the chicken for longer if you can; it makes a huge difference in flavor!
Leave spaces between the chicken pieces on the skewers for even cooking.

Equipment Needed

Grill: A standard outdoor grill works wonders; an indoor grill pan can do the trick if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Bamboo skewers: You can use metal skewers too, just make sure they’re seasoned to avoid sticking.
Mixing bowls: Handy for marinating and mixing the sauce.
Meat thermometer: For checking chicken doneness.

Variations for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Vegetable Skewers: Swap the chicken for your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a delightful vegetarian option.
Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, richer flavor.
Spicy Tofu Skewers: For a plant-based twist, marinate firm tofu cubes in the same Bang Bang sauce, then grill.
Fruit Additions: Thread pieces of pineapple or mango onto the skewers for a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory sauce.
Gluten-Free Options: Ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free and pair it with gluten-free sweet chili sauce for a safe indulgence.
Different Proteins: Try shrimp or scallops for a seafood version. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the sauce for an extra pop of flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Fresh Salad: Serve with a crisp cucumber and avocado salad for a refreshing contrast.
Rice or Quinoa: Pair the skewers with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up the sauce.
Cold Beverages: Enjoy with a cold iced tea or fruity mocktail for a delightful drink pairing.
Garnish: Present on a colorful platter and sprinkle additional sesame seeds for a beautiful touch.

FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Have questions about making the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries I’ve encountered along the way:

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a few hours or even a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. It makes for a quick dinnertime option!

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Think fresh salads, rice, or even grilled veggies. It creates a lovely balance of flavors and textures.

How spicy are these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
The spice level can be tailored to your taste. The sriracha adds heat, but you can adjust it based on your family’s preferences. Start with a little, and add more until it feels just right!

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for the juiciest results. However, if you only have frozen, make sure to thoroughly thaw it before marinating and grilling.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also reheat them on the grill or in the oven to retain that delicious grilled flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about gathering around a plate of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. The combination of smoky, juicy chicken with that creamy, spicy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lively weekend gathering, this dish delivers joy and satisfaction with every bite. Plus, the process of making them—a little marinating, some grilling, and voilà!—is utterly enjoyable. I hope this recipe inspires you to fire up the grill and create cherished culinary memories with your loved ones. Enjoy every delicious moment!