Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: Prepare to ignite your taste buds with a flavor explosion! These aren’t your average grilled chicken skewers; they’re a symphony of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that will leave you craving more. Imagine tender, juicy chicken, perfectly charred on the outside, and coated in a creamy, irresistible Bang Bang sauce. Sounds divine, right?

While the exact origins of Bang Bang Chicken are debated, many believe it originated in China, possibly as a street food delicacy. The name itself is thought to mimic the sound of the mallet used to tenderize the chicken. Over time, the dish has evolved and adapted, finding its way into Western cuisine with exciting variations like these skewers.

What makes Bang Bang Chicken Skewers so universally loved? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The slight char from the grill gives the chicken a delightful smoky flavor, while the creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy Bang Bang sauce elevates it to another level. Plus, the skewer format makes them incredibly convenient for grilling, serving, and enjoying at parties, barbecues, or even a quick weeknight dinner. Get ready to experience a culinary adventure that’s both easy to make and utterly unforgettable!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 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
• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 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)
• For the Skewers & Garnish:
• 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)

Marinating the Chicken:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken cubes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well to ensure all the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be. I usually aim for at least an hour if I have the time!

Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce:

1. While the chicken is marinating, prepare 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 (if using).
2. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey. For more heat, add more sriracha or red pepper flakes. I like mine with a good kick!
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the sauce until ready to use. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Assembling the Skewers:

1. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator.
2. Thread the chicken cubes onto the soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. I usually put about 5-6 pieces of chicken on each skewer, but you can adjust this based on the size of your skewers and chicken cubes.
3. Make sure the chicken is securely on the skewers so it doesn’t fall off during grilling.

Grilling the Chicken Skewers:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Brush the chicken skewers with vegetable oil. This will help them get a nice sear and prevent them from drying out.
3. Place the skewers on the preheated grill.
4. Grill for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char on all sides. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). I always use a meat thermometer to be sure!
5. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.

Serving the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers:

1. Remove the grilled chicken skewers from the grill and place them on a serving platter.
2. Generously drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the skewers, making sure to coat all sides.
3. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
4. Serve immediately and enjoy! These skewers are best served hot and fresh.

Tips and Variations:

• Baking Option: If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken skewers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Air Fryer Option: Another great alternative is to use an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
• Spicy Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha and red pepper flakes in the Bang Bang sauce to control the spice level. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey or a touch of brown sugar.
• Vegetable Skewers: Add some vegetables to the skewers along with the chicken, such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. This will add more flavor and nutrients to the dish.
• Peanut Butter Variation: For a richer and nuttier flavor, add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the Bang Bang sauce.
• Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice can brighten up the flavors of the sauce.
• Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken and prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to use. This is a great way to save time when you’re preparing for a party or gathering.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers as an appetizer, a main course, or as part of a buffet. They pair well with rice, noodles, salads, or grilled vegetables.
• Storage: Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave, oven, or air fryer before serving.

Detailed Explanation of Ingredients:

Chicken Breasts:

I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they cook quickly and evenly. Make sure to cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes so they cook at the same rate. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer, but they may take a little longer to cook.

Soy Sauce:

Soy sauce adds a savory and umami flavor to the chicken marinade. I recommend using low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.

Rice Vinegar:

Rice vinegar adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the marinade and the Bang Bang sauce. It also helps to tenderize the chicken.

Cornstarch:

Cornstarch helps to create a light coating on the chicken, which helps it to brown nicely and absorb the flavors of the marinade. It also acts as a thickening agent.

Ginger and Garlic:

Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic add a pungent and aromatic flavor to the chicken marinade. I highly recommend using fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Mayonnaise:

Mayonnaise forms the base of the Bang Bang sauce, adding richness and creaminess. I prefer using full-fat mayonnaise for the best flavor and texture.

Sweet Chili Sauce:

Sweet chili sauce adds a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the Bang Bang sauce. You can find it in the Asian section of most grocery stores.

Sriracha:

Sriracha adds a spicy kick to the Bang Bang sauce. Adjust the amount to your liking, depending on your spice preference.

Honey:

Honey adds a touch of sweetness to the Bang Bang sauce, balancing out the spiciness and tanginess.

Garlic Powder:

Garlic powder adds a subtle garlic flavor to the Bang Bang sauce. It’s a convenient alternative to fresh garlic.

Red Pepper Flakes:

Red pepper flakes add an extra layer of heat to the Bang Bang sauce. They’re optional, but I like to add a pinch for a little extra kick.

Vegetable Oil:

Vegetable oil is used for grilling the chicken skewers. It helps to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill and adds a nice sear.

Green Onions and Sesame Seeds:

Chopped green onions and sesame seeds are used as a garnish for the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. They add a pop of color and flavor.

Troubleshooting:

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are truly a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss. From the juicy, perfectly grilled chicken to the creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet Bang Bang sauce, every bite is an absolute delight. I genuinely believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results right in your own backyard (or kitchen!). It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

But the best part? It’s so versatile! While I’ve presented it as skewers, feel free to get creative. You could easily serve the grilled chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Imagine it nestled in a warm pita bread with some crisp lettuce and a drizzle of extra Bang Bang sauce – a fantastic lunch option! Or, for a lighter take, toss the grilled chicken into a vibrant salad with mixed greens, crunchy vegetables, and a light vinaigrette. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the Bang Bang sauce.
* If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a touch more honey or maple syrup.
* To make it even easier, you can use pre-cut chicken tenders instead of cubing the chicken breasts.
* For a vegetarian option, try using grilled halloumi cheese or tofu in place of the chicken. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, grilled corn on the cob, or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete and balanced meal.
* Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a beautiful and flavorful garnish.
* For a fun twist, try using different types of skewers, such as bamboo skewers or metal skewers. If using bamboo skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

I’ve made these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers countless times, and they’re always a hit. They’re perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or even a fun appetizer for parties. The vibrant flavors and easy preparation make them a winner every time. I’m confident that you’ll love them just as much as I do.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill (or preheat your oven!), and get ready to experience the amazing flavors of these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover your own favorite variations.

I truly believe that cooking is all about sharing and connecting, so I would absolutely love to hear about your experience making these skewers. Did you make any modifications? Did you serve them with anything special? What did your family and friends think? Please, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below and share your thoughts and photos. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking, and enjoy! I can’t wait to hear all about your Bang Bang Chicken Skewer adventures!