These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are super tasty and easy to make! Juicy chicken pieces are grilled to perfection and tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce that really packs a punch!
Trust me, once you serve these skewers, they will disappear quickly! I love pairing them with some fresh veggies or rice for a fun meal that’s always a hit at parties.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Using boneless, skinless chicken breast keeps it lean and easy to cook. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a delicious alternative and stay juicy when grilled.
Mayonnaise: This gives creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great. It adds tanginess and reduces calories.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds sweetness and a hint of heat. If you can’t find it, consider mixing honey with a bit of red pepper flakes or using a homemade version.
Sriracha: Adjust this to your spice level. If you want less heat, you might swap it out for more sweet chili sauce or even a mild hot sauce.
Honey: This perfectly balances the sauce. Maple syrup is a good vegan substitute that adds its own unique flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice enhances brightness. Lemon juice can substitute if limes aren’t available.
What’s the Best Way to Grill Chicken Skewers?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky without drying out the meat. Here are some steps to ensure they turn out juicy and flavorful.
- Marinate: The longer you let the chicken soak in the marinade, the more flavor it will absorb. Aim for at least 30 minutes!
- Preheat: Always preheat your grill or grill pan. It helps sear the chicken quickly and prevents sticking.
- Soak Skewers: Make sure your bamboo skewers are soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This reduces the chance of them burning.
- Cook Time: Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Check for 165°F internal temp with a meat thermometer.
- Brush with Sauce: For an extra flavor punch, brush the skewers with some reserved marinade just before finishing on the grill. Just make sure it’s set aside before adding raw chicken!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep time and 10-12 minutes for grilling. Additionally, allow 30 minutes to 2 hours for marinating the chicken in the refrigerator. So, in total, plan for about 50 minutes to 2 hours and 12 minutes, depending on your marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, minced ginger, and some salt and pepper. This mix is going to coat your chicken and give it that awesome bang bang flavor! Reserve about 1/4 cup of this sauce for drizzling later.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chopped chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them well so they’re all coated in the delicious marinade. Once they’re well mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you have time) so the flavors can really soak in.
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, take the soaked bamboo skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. You can fit 4-5 pieces per skewer, but feel free to pack them as tightly or loosely as you like!
4. Grill the Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. Keep an eye on them until they’re fully cooked and have lovely grill marks. It’s going to smell amazing!
5. Brush with Reserved Sauce:
During the last minute of grilling, brush the reserved marinade over the chicken skewers for a flavor boost. This gives them a nice glaze and enhances the taste even more!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro. Don’t forget the extra sauce for dipping if you like a little more kick!
Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers! Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a fun dinner.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to your skewers. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple more minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise in the Marinade?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise. It will still provide creaminess while adding a tangy flavor to the marinade. Just make sure to adjust for the taste if needed!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can be marinated for a minimum of 30 minutes and up to 2 hours for the best flavor. If you’re looking to marinate it longer, it’s best to keep it in the refrigerator and not exceed 6 hours to avoid the meat becoming too tender or mushy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quick reheating option, but be cautious as they may become chewy.
