Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a mouthwatering combination of sweet and spicy flavors that make them the star of any gathering. Juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a blend of spices, grilled to perfection, and topped with a creamy Bang Bang sauce. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether it’s for a family BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
INGREDIENTS
- Chicken Thighs (2 lb): Skinless and cut into bite-sized pieces, these are juicy and flavorful when grilled.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Helps coat the chicken and keeps it tender during grilling.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle smokiness to the chicken.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
- Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of savory sweetness to the marinade.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses the chicken with aromatic garlic flavor.
- Black Pepper (½ teaspoon): Provides a touch of heat and balance to the spices.
- Mayonnaise (1 cup): The base of the Bang Bang sauce, adding creaminess and tang.
- Sweet Chili Sauce (⅓ cup): Brings the perfect balance of sweetness and spice to the sauce.
- Sriracha Sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds heat and bold flavor to the sauce.
- Fresh Lime Juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the sauce with a fresh, citrusy tang.
- Lime Wedges: For garnishing and squeezing over the finished skewers.
- Chopped Parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant garnish to the dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken thighs, olive oil, paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Step 2: Thread the Chicken
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers, spacing them evenly. This ensures even cooking and easy handling on the grill.
- Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice until smooth and creamy. Reserve half of the sauce for serving and use the other half to brush over the chicken.
- Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat a grill or griddle pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on one side. Flip the skewers, brush with additional Bang Bang sauce, and cook for another 8 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Step 5: Serve
- Transfer the cooked skewers to a serving platter. Drizzle the reserved Bang Bang sauce over the top, garnish with chopped parsley and lime wedges, and serve warm. Enjoy this sweet and spicy dish!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers as a main course with a side of steamed rice or salad. They also make an excellent appetizer for parties and BBQs.
- Storage: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on a grill or in a microwave before serving.
- Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken pieces (before grilling) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before threading and grilling.
Helpful Notes
- Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading the chicken to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- Sauce Adjustments: Add more Sriracha for extra heat or reduce it for a milder sauce.
- Grilling Tip: Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking and perfect char marks.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the chicken marinate overnight for deeper flavor absorption, as suggested by professional chefs.
- Grill Temperature: Maintain medium-high heat to ensure the chicken cooks evenly without drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- The Bang Bang sauce is versatile and can be used as a dip or drizzle for other dishes.
Variations
- Protein Swap: Try this recipe with shrimp or tofu for a twist on the classic Bang Bang flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: Use grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms instead of chicken.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook the skewers in an air fryer at 375°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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