Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a bold and flavorful appetizer or main dish featuring tender, grilled chicken slathered in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce. Inspired by Asian fusion flavors, this recipe combines the smokiness of grilled skewers with the irresistible tang of Bang Bang sauce, making it perfect for parties, cookouts, or weeknight dinners.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)olive oilgarlic powdersaltpepperbamboo or metal skewersmayonnaisesweet chili saucesriracha (or other hot sauce)lime juicehoney (optional for extra sweetness)green onions (for garnish)sesame seeds (for garnish)
directions
Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes if using wooden ones.
Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks and place in a bowl.
Toss chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Thread chicken pieces onto skewers.
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and honey (if using) to make the Bang Bang sauce.
Brush or drizzle sauce generously over the cooked chicken skewers.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesMarinating and soaking time: 30 minutesCooking time: 10-12 minutesTotal time: 55-60 minutes
Variations
Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different protein options.
Add a dash of soy sauce or hoisin to the sauce for deeper umami flavor.
Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter sauce version.
storage/reheating
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through.To keep skewers moist, cover with foil when reheating in the oven.
FAQs
What is Bang Bang sauce made of?
It’s typically a blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, creating a creamy, spicy-sweet flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prep the sauce a day in advance, then grill when ready to serve.
Is Bang Bang Chicken very spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat depending on how much sriracha you use. Adjust to taste.
Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes, bake skewers at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning once halfway.
What’s the best chicken cut for skewers?
Chicken thighs offer more juiciness, but breasts work well too for a leaner option.
How can I make it healthier?
Use light mayo or Greek yogurt and grill without additional oil.
Do I need to marinate the chicken?
It’s not necessary, but you can marinate for extra flavor if you have time.
Can I use store-bought Bang Bang sauce?
Yes, but homemade usually has better flavor control and freshness.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free chili sauce and mayonnaise to ensure it is.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, just reduce the sriracha to make it milder.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a crowd-pleasing fusion of grilled goodness and spicy-sweet sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, they’re sure to become a staple at your next gathering or family dinner.
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American/Asian fusion
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Spicy‑sweet grilled chicken skewers served with a creamy, zesty Bang Bang sauce — perfect as an appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1‑inch pieces
- 8–10 wooden or metal skewers
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Optional garnish: chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, lime wedges
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes (skip this step if using metal skewers).
- Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and vegetable oil; toss to coat evenly.
- Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium‑high heat.
- Grill skewers for 4–5 minutes per side, until chicken is cooked through and grill marks appear.
- While grilling, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and garlic in a bowl to make the Bang Bang sauce.
- Once chicken is done, brush lightly with some sauce or serve sauce on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, and lime wedges, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use chicken breast instead of thighs; cooking time may vary slightly.
- Sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra heat, increase Sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Can also be broiled or air‑fried if you don’t have a grill.