Every summer evening, when the sun sets, I think of good times. We share meals with family and friends. Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a favorite at our BBQs.
The smell of spicy chicken grilling reminds me of happy nights. These skewers are tender and coated in a yummy sauce. They are easy to make and unforgettable.
When we sit down to eat, everyone loves these skewers. They are full of flavor and perfect for any time. Whether it’s a big BBQ or a small dinner, these skewers make memories.
What are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a tasty mix of flavors. They have marinated chicken on skewers, covered in a creamy sauce called bang bang sauce. The chicken is cut into small pieces for even cooking.
They use 2 pounds of chicken breasts. This makes the chicken tender and juicy.
You can grill or air fry these skewers. Grilling them for 8 to 10 minutes per side gives a nice char. Air frying at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway, makes them juicy.
The bang bang sauce is a big part of the dish. It’s made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. This sauce adds a zesty kick to the chicken.
Each skewer has about 253 calories. This makes them a tasty and satisfying choice for any event.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Grilling | Medium-high (approx. 400°F) | 8-10 minutes per side |
| Air Frying | 400°F | 11-12 minutes, flip halfway |
This dish is perfect for any occasion. It’s great for casual gatherings or intimate dinners. The unique flavors and juicy chicken will impress everyone.
Why You Should Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Making easy bang bang chicken skewers is fun. They’re ready in under 30 minutes. This makes them great for a quick dinner or a surprise party.
They only take 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 to cook. This means you can enjoy a tasty meal without much work.
The bang bang sauce is a big hit. It’s made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. This mix gives a savory and slightly spicy taste.
This sauce is good for everyone. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a big party. These skewers are great as appetizers or the main course.
This dish is not just tasty but also healthy. Each serving has about 194 kcal and 21 g of protein. Adding veggies like bell peppers and onions makes it even better.
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful Sauce: Unique blend of ingredients for a delicious dip.
- Nutritious: Low calorie, high protein, and filled with veggies.
Quick prep, amazing flavors, and health benefits make these skewers a top choice. Try this recipe for a simple yet delicious meal. Your guests will love it.
Ingredient Notes for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Knowing what goes into bang bang chicken skewers is key. Choosing the right chicken and seasonings, plus making the sauce, makes the dish great. Here’s a guide to help you with these important parts.
Chicken Selection
I like to use boneless skinless chicken thighs. They stay juicy and taste good. Each skewer has about 115 grams of chicken. You’ll need 1.5 pounds for the whole dish.
You can use chicken breasts if you want something leaner. But thighs are juicier and taste better.
Essential Seasonings
The right seasonings make the flavor pop. Use 1.5 teaspoons of paprika and 1.5 teaspoons each of garlic and ginger powder. Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for spice.
Also, add ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Use 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil to keep the chicken moist and bind flavors.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
The sauce is what makes the dish addictive. Mix ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of Thai sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons of sriracha, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Add 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for freshness.
This sauce is creamy, sweet, and a bit spicy. It’s perfect with your skewers. Making it only takes a few minutes. You’ll get about 1 ¾ cups, great for dipping and drizzling.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs | 1.5 pounds (680 grams) |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons (30 grams) |
| Paprika | 1.5 teaspoons |
| Garlic Powder | 1.5 teaspoons + 1 teaspoon (for sauce) |
| Ginger Powder | 1.5 teaspoons |
| Cayenne Pepper (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
| Sea Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup (95 grams) |
| Thai Sweet Chili Sauce | 2 tablespoons (50 grams) |
| Sriracha | 2 tablespoons (8 grams) |
| Fresh Lime Juice | 20 grams |
| Dried Parsley | 1 teaspoon |
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
To start, mix 1 to 1 ½ lbs of chicken tenders in a big bowl. Add 2/3 cup of mayonnaise, 1/3 cup of sweet chili sauce, and ½ tbsp of honey. Also, add 1 tbsp of Sriracha, 1 tbsp of lime juice, and 1/8 to ¼ tsp of red pepper flakes. Mix well until the chicken is coated.
Let the chicken marinate for 2 to 3 hours. Or, even better, let it sit overnight for more flavor.
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. This keeps them from burning. Put 4 to 5 pieces of chicken on each skewer, leaving some space.
When ready to cook, brush half of the skewers with bang bang sauce. Save the rest for dipping later.
Grill for 10 minutes total. Cook each side for 4 to 6 minutes. Make sure the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This recipe serves 6, great for sharing with loved ones.
Cooking Methods for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can be cooked in many ways. You can air fry, grill, or bake them in the oven. Each method gives a different taste and texture. Here are the steps for air frying, grilling, and baking to get perfect skewers.
Air Frying Instructions
To make crispy and juicy skewers in an air fryer, follow these steps:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F.
- Put the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook the skewers for 15 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
- Make sure the chicken’s internal temperature is 165°F before serving.
Grilling Instructions
Grilling gives the skewers a smoky taste. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the grill to medium-high, about 325°F.
- Brush the skewers with some Bang Bang sauce.
- Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes on each side, until fully cooked.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature, it should be 160°F.
Oven Baking Instructions
Oven baking is easy and works well:
- Heat the oven to 425°F.
- Put the skewers on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 18 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature, it should be 165°F before taking it out.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Air Frying | 350°F | 15 minutes |
| Grilling | 325°F | 8-10 minutes per side |
| Oven Baking | 425°F | 18 minutes |
By using these cooking methods, you can make a tasty meal. Each way has its own special touch, making your meal a joy to eat.
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
To make the best bang bang chicken skewers, pay close attention to details. Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before using them. This step stops them from charring, so your chicken cooks perfectly.
Using fresh ingredients is key for great flavor. I choose the best chicken breasts or thighs for juiciness. When making the bang bang sauce, I adjust the Sriracha to my taste. This lets me make a dish that’s just right for me.
After cooking, let the skewers rest for a bit. This helps keep the juices in, making each bite more flavorful and tender. By following these tips, your bang bang chicken skewers will be a hit with your guests.
Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
There are so many ways to serve bang bang chicken skewers. They make a great appetizer, bursting with flavor. Serve them with extra bang bang sauce for dipping. This sauce is sweet and tangy, perfect with the chicken.
At BBQ parties, put the skewers out as part of a buffet. They look good and everyone loves them. Add fresh cilantro or green onions for extra flavor and color.
These skewers go well with many sides. For a full meal, try:
- Steamed rice or fried rice
- Grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn
- A fresh salad with a light dressing
For big gatherings, mix veggies like cherry tomatoes and bell peppers with the chicken. This makes the dish more colorful and balanced.
Whether it’s a dinner with friends or a BBQ, the right sides can make a big difference. Try different things and see what you like!
| Side Dishes | Description |
|---|---|
| Steamed Rice | A classic side that absorbs the flavors of the sauce. |
| Grilled Vegetables | Adds a smoky flavor, balancing the sweetness of the skewers. |
| Fresh Salad | Provides crunch and freshness, complementing the savory chicken. |
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Planning to enjoy bang bang chicken skewers? Meal prep can help a lot. I can marinate and assemble these skewers early. This way, they’re ready to cook whenever I want.
Here are some tips for preparing ahead, storing leftovers, and reheating bang bang chicken skewers.
Preparing Ahead of Time
Preparing bang bang chicken skewers is easy. I marinate and skewer the chicken early. Then, I soak wooden skewers in warm water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Once ready, I cover and refrigerate them for 2-3 days. Freezing is also an option for up to 3 months.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers? No problem! I store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Storing leftovers helps me enjoy the skewers again. It’s a great way to avoid waste.
Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Reheating is easy. I use the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes. It keeps them crispy.
Or, I can use the microwave. Just be careful not to dry out the chicken. These methods make reheating satisfying.
| Storage Method | Storage Time | Reheating Method |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes |
| Freezer | 2-3 months | Thaw and reheat in air fryer or microwave |
Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
There are so many ways to make delicious bang bang chicken skewers. You can use shrimp, tofu, or beef for different tastes and textures. Even a simple grilled chicken kebab can become exciting with new ingredients.
Try marinating chicken in teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist. Add pineapple for extra flavor and juiciness. You can also change the sauce’s heat by adding more Sriracha or trying new hot sauces.
Here’s a chart with some tasty variations:
| Protein Choice | Marinade Suggestion | Ingredient Additions |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Teriyaki sauce | Pineapple chunks |
| Shrimp | Lemon-garlic mix | Bell pepper slices |
| Tofu | Spicy peanut sauce | Vegetable medley |
| Beef | Chimichurri | Red onion pieces |
Exploring these variations makes every skewer a new adventure. Share your creations at your next cookout. Your friends will love the effort and creativity you put into your grilled bang bang chicken kebabs.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for BBQ Parties
Bang bang chicken skewers are perfect for BBQ parties. They’re easy to serve and fun to eat on the go. I can make the best skewers for my guests with just a few steps.
These skewers cook fast over hot coals. They need only 30 to 60 seconds of grill time after adding the sauce. This makes serving easy and lets guests create their own plates. I always have different dips and sides ready for everyone.
To make the best skewers, I use 3 chicken breasts, cut into cubes. I thread them onto 6-inch skewers. Each skewer has 3 to 5 chicken pieces, making them just the right size. Marinating the chicken first makes it juicy and flavorful. I mix mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce for that special taste everyone loves.
I also make skewers with different proteins and veggies for my BBQ. This way, everyone finds something they like. It makes my parties fun and full of variety.
How to Customize Your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
I love to try new things with my Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Using chicken thighs makes them taste richer and juicier. I add colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for looks and extra nutrition.
I can make about 4-5 skewers, depending on how many people I’m serving. This way, everyone gets a good-sized piece.
Want to try something different? Swap the Bang Bang sauce for mango salsa or yogurt sauce. Or, add more sriracha for a spicy kick. It’s fun to mix things up and make my kitchen a creative space.
Remember to add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor. Sometimes, I even try different marinades like soy sauce or garlic powder. This way, I can make my skewers special for any event.
