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 culinary adventure, a symphony of sweet, spicy, and savory that will leave you craving more. Imagine tender, juicy chicken, perfectly charred and glazed with a creamy, vibrant sauce that dances on your tongue. That’s the magic of Bang Bang Chicken, and we’ve taken it to the next level by threading it onto skewers for easy grilling and even easier enjoyment.
While the exact origins of “Bang Bang” sauce are debated, it’s widely believed to have originated in China, with variations popping up across Asia. The name itself suggests the bold, explosive flavors that characterize the dish. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha combined to create something truly extraordinary.
What makes Bang Bang Chicken Skewers so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The slight char from the grill gives the chicken a delightful smokiness, while the sauce provides a creamy, cooling contrast to the heat. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly versatile perfect as an appetizer for a summer barbecue, a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or even a flavorful addition to your lunchbox. Plus, who can resist the fun of eating food off a stick? Get ready to experience the “bang” for yourself!
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 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (or more, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- For the Skewers and 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
- Crushed peanuts, for garnish (optional)
Preparing the Chicken:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, white pepper, and sesame oil. Mix well to ensure all the chicken pieces are coated evenly. 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!
- Soak the Skewers: While the chicken is marinating, soak the bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill. I usually put them in a baking dish filled with water and weigh them down with a plate to keep them submerged.
Assembling the Skewers:
- Thread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Take the soaked skewers and thread the marinated chicken cubes onto them, leaving a small space between each piece. Aim for about 5-6 chicken cubes per skewer, but you can adjust based on the size of your chicken and skewers. Don’t overcrowd the skewers, as this will prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a bit more honey. For more heat, add more sriracha or red pepper flakes. I like mine with a good kick!
- Adjust Consistency (if needed): If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a teaspoon or two of water until it reaches your desired consistency. It should be easily drizzled over the chicken skewers.
Cooking the Chicken Skewers:
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking. You can use a gas grill or a charcoal grill for this recipe. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly distributed for consistent heat.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. Turn the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Alternative Cooking Method (Oven): If you don’t have a grill, you can also 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. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, flipping halfway through.
- Alternative Cooking Method (Pan-Fry): You can also pan-fry the chicken skewers. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the skewers and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and browned. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, and cook in batches if necessary.
Serving and Garnishing:
- Drizzle with Sauce: Once the chicken skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill (or oven/pan) and place them on a serving platter. Generously drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the skewers, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts (if using) over the skewers for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers immediately while they are still warm and the sauce is fresh. They are delicious as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a snack.
- Serving Suggestions: These skewers are fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. They also pair well with other Asian-inspired dishes. For a complete meal, try serving them with steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha 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.
- Chicken Thighs: You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and tend to stay more moist during cooking.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can use firm tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Cut the tofu or tempeh into cubes and marinate them in the same way as the chicken.
- Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple to the skewers for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Bell Peppers: Include bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) on the skewers for added color and flavor.
- Peanut Butter: For a richer and nuttier flavor, add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the Bang Bang sauce.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken skewers and the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time. Store the skewers in the refrigerator until ready to grill or bake. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Leftovers: Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
Enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Approximate):
(Per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 35-45g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 15-25g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
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 know, I know, I’m biased, but trust me on this one this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why is this a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s also surprisingly easy to make. The marinade comes together in minutes, and grilling the skewers is quick and simple. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less sriracha to the sauce. Want it even sweeter? A touch more honey will do the trick.
But the real magic lies in the combination of textures and flavors. The tender chicken, the crispy edges from the grill, and the smooth, luscious sauce create a symphony in your mouth. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, making it an irresistible appetizer, a fun main course, or even a delicious addition to your next barbecue.
Speaking of serving suggestions, the possibilities are endless! I personally love serving these skewers over a bed of fluffy rice, drizzled with extra Bang Bang sauce and sprinkled with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. It’s a complete and satisfying meal. Alternatively, you could serve them as an appetizer at your next party, alongside a platter of fresh vegetables and dipping sauces. They’re also fantastic in lettuce wraps for a lighter, healthier option.
For variations, consider using different types of protein. Shrimp or tofu would be delicious substitutes for the chicken. You could also experiment with different vegetables on the skewers, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of ginger or garlic powder to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own! That’s the beauty of cooking, right? It’s all about experimenting and finding what you love.
I truly believe that these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will become a new favorite in your household. They’re perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your friends and family with a delicious and easy-to-make dish.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to experience the amazing flavors of these incredible skewers. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any modifications? What did you think of the sauce? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. I love seeing your creations and hearing your feedback. Let’s build a community of Bang Bang Chicken Skewer enthusiasts! Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe as much as I do!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
Delicious and easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers! Marinated chicken grilled to perfection and drizzled with a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
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 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (or more, to taste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of 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
- Crushed peanuts, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, white pepper, and sesame oil. Mix well to ensure all the chicken pieces are coated evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
- Soak the Skewers: While the chicken is marinating, soak the bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. Aim for about 5-6 chicken cubes per skewer.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings to your liking.
- Adjust Consistency (if needed): If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a teaspoon or two of water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. Turn the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Alternative Cooking Method (Oven): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through, flipping halfway through.
- Alternative Cooking Method (Pan-Fry): Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the skewers and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and browned. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, and cook in batches if necessary.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Once the chicken skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill (or oven/pan) and place them on a serving platter. Generously drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the skewers, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and crushed peanuts (if using) over the skewers for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers immediately while they are still warm and the sauce is fresh.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to control the spice level.
- Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey or a touch of brown sugar.
- Chicken Thighs: You can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can use firm tofu or tempeh instead of chicken.
- Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple to the skewers for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Bell Peppers: Include bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange) on the skewers for added color and flavor.
- Peanut Butter: For a richer and nuttier flavor, add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the Bang Bang sauce.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken skewers and the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time. Store the skewers in the refrigerator until ready to grill or bake. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Leftovers: Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.