Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty dish! They feature juicy pieces of chicken that are grilled or baked on sticks and coated with a creamy, spicy sauce that brings out amazing flavors.
These skewers are great for parties or a cozy night in. I love how easy they are to whip up, and the spicy tang makes each bite something special. Perfect with a side of veggies or rice! 🌶️🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken thighs can work well too. Just remember, thighs may take a bit longer to cook.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re watching calories or prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It also adds a nice tang!
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is the heart of the flavor. If you can’t find it, try mixing honey with a little soy sauce and crushed red pepper flakes for a similar taste.
Sriracha: Adjust the amount to suit your heat preference. If you’re not a fan of spicy foods, you can simply leave it out or use a milder hot sauce. A dash of smoked paprika can add a nice kick without the heat.
Skewers: Wooden skewers are great, but remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Metal skewers are reusable and eliminate this step!
How Do You Get Juicy Grilled Chicken Kabobs?
The secret to juicy kabobs lies in marinating the chicken and not overcooking it. Marinating allows the flavors to soak in and keeps the chicken moist while grilling. Here’s how to ensure your chicken stays juicy:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes but up to 2 hours for best flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan before placing the chicken on it — this helps create a nice sear.
- Grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally but not too often — this ensures the chicken cooks evenly and locks in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 10 minutes for prep and about 12-15 minutes for cooking. Including the marinating time, you’ll need about 30 minutes to 2 hours for the chicken to soak up all those delicious flavors. Perfect for a quick meal or a fun grill session!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium-sized bowl. Combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, lime juice, and olive oil. Mix these ingredients well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. This will be the base for your chicken’s flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Set aside about 1/3 of the sauce to use later as a dipping sauce. Now, take the rest of the marinade and add your chicken pieces to it. Stir the chicken around until it’s well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, so the flavors can really blend together.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken pieces on the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to help them cook evenly. Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt and pepper on the skewers to add a little extra taste!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to be safe.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the kabobs are done, take them off the grill and brush them lightly with some of the reserved Bang Bang sauce for extra flavor. Serve the kabobs warm, drizzled with more sauce if you like! If you want to get fancy, garnish with some chopped parsley. Dig in and enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add extra juiciness and flavor to your kabobs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of Sriracha in the marinade or omit it entirely. You can also use a sweeter chili sauce instead, or add a bit more lime juice and mayonnaise to balance out the heat with creaminess. Always taste as you go!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm them up in a skillet over low heat. Brush with a little olive oil to keep them moist while reheating.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to deepen. Just give it a quick stir before adding the chicken, and remember to refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
