Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are tasty little bites packed with flavor! Grilled chicken pieces are coated in a creamy and spicy sauce that makes every mouthful exciting and fun!
These skewers are perfect for a party or a cozy night in. They disappear fast, and you’ll be fighting for the last one! 😂 I love serving them with some veggies or dipping sauce on the side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken breast instead, but keep an eye on the cooking time, as breast can dry out quickly.
Soy Sauce: It adds great depth to the marinade. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos. For a lower sodium version, look for low-sodium soy sauce that still retains the rich taste.
Sesame Oil: This oil brings so much flavor and nutrition. If you don’t have it, you might substitute with canola or olive oil, but it will change the flavor profile a bit. If you can find toasted sesame oil, that’s even better for added nuttiness.
Honey: It balances the saltiness from the soy sauce. If you’re avoiding sugar, maple syrup or agave nectar works nicely too. You might need to adjust the quantities to fit your taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: They add a bit of heat. If you prefer milder skewers, consider using a pinch of black pepper instead or just omit them entirely.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to a great flavor and moisture. Aim to marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is fantastic. This helps the chicken absorb all those delicious flavors. Mix the chicken well in the marinade to coat every piece!
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks to allow more surface for the marinade to stick.
- Make sure to cover the bowl or use a zip-top bag to really seal those flavors in.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy before serving.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (or more for extra spice)
For Garnish:
- Green onions, chopped
Additional:
- Skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 1 hour for marinating the chicken, plus about 15 minutes for prep and grilling. So, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes total. If you marinate overnight, it will enhance the flavor even more!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything well to blend the flavors completely. This will create a delicious marinade that your chicken will soak in!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together, making sure the chicken is well-coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or if you have the time, overnight for maximum flavor!
3. Get Ready to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure you’ve soaked them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and have nice grill marks. Keep an eye on it to avoid any burning!
6. Make the Dipping Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on how spicy you like your sauce!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with the dipping sauce on the side and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the thighs. Just keep in mind that chicken breasts may dry out more quickly, so monitor the grilling time closely, cooking until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Spicy Can I Make This Dish?
If you like it hot, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or sriracha in the marinade and the dipping sauce. For an even spicier kick, try adding a splash of cayenne pepper or some diced fresh jalapeños directly to the mix. Just taste as you go!
