If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s bursting with bold flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for your next backyard barbecue, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a must-try. This recipe combines tender grilled chicken with a spicy, creamy, slightly sweet Bang Bang sauce that delivers just the right amount of heat and tang. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, a casual weeknight dinner, or a festive gathering, these skewers will be a standout hit on your menu.
Inspired by the popular restaurant appetizer, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer the perfect balance of savory grilled meat and a rich, flavorful glaze that keeps everyone coming back for more. The best part? They’re incredibly simple to make and can even be prepped ahead of time to minimize day-of cooking stress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers check all the boxes when it comes to a great grilling recipe. They’re flavorful, fast-cooking, and easy to customize. Plus, the sauce is so delicious you’ll want to drizzle it over everything. Here’s what makes them perfect for your next BBQ:
- Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients
- Deliciously balanced sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors
- Perfect for outdoor grilling, stovetop grilling, or even oven baking
- Great for feeding a crowd or as a fun weeknight dinner option
- Can be prepped in advance for fuss-free cooking
Ingredients
To make these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice for a slight tang
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade and Chicken
In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken marinate while you prepare the sauce, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour for more flavor.
Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth. Taste and adjust for sweetness or spice as desired. Reserve half the sauce for drizzling or dipping, and set the rest aside for basting.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or brush the skewers with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char. In the final minutes of grilling, brush the skewers with some of the Bang Bang sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Drizzle with the reserved sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pair well with a variety of sides, making them a versatile addition to your BBQ menu. Try serving them with:
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Summer slaw with lime vinaigrette
- Coconut rice or garlic fried rice
- Crisp cucumber salad
- Grilled vegetables
They also make a fantastic topping for rice bowls, salad wraps, or lettuce cups if you’re looking for lighter options.
Tips for Success
- If you’re short on time, use a store-bought Bang Bang sauce or mix mayonnaise with pre-made spicy chili sauce to speed things up.
- For a healthier twist, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.
- Want extra flavor? Marinate the chicken overnight in a bit of soy sauce, garlic, and lime juice before skewering and grilling.
- Double the sauce recipe if you want to use it for dipping other grilled items like shrimp, tofu, or vegetables.
Make-Ahead and Storage
You can prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge. Chicken can be marinated and skewered a few hours in advance and kept in the refrigerator until ready to grill. Leftover cooked skewers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the perfect fusion of bold flavor and easy preparation, making them ideal for spring and summer BBQs, family dinners, or festive gatherings. With a mouthwatering sauce and juicy grilled chicken, these skewers offer a delicious twist on a classic grilling recipe that will quickly become a go-to favorite. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish or a party appetizer, they’re guaranteed to impress your guests and leave everyone asking for the recipe.
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