These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer an irresistible fusion of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, transforming a classic appetizer into a versatile and delightful meal. Imagine tender, juicy chunks of chicken, expertly marinated in a vibrant, creamy sauce, then grilled to a succulent perfection. This recipe promises not only an explosion of taste but also a straightforward cooking process, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Prepare to captivate your family and friends with this unique twist on a beloved dish.
To ensure you don’t lose this fantastic recipe, consider bookmarking this page or saving it to your favorite digital recipe collection. You can find the complete, printable recipe card with full measurements and detailed instructions at the bottom of this page.
Unlock the Flavor: Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience designed for maximum enjoyment with minimal fuss. Here’s why this dish stands out:
- Unbeatable Versatility: Whether you’re planning an elegant appetizer spread, a satisfying main course, or looking for a flavorful protein to enhance salads, wraps, or grain bowls, these chicken skewers fit every bill. Their convenient skewer format makes them perfect for individual servings and easy handling.
- Effortless Preparation, Explosive Flavor: Don’t let the gourmet taste fool you – this recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare. The magic lies in the marinade, which infuses the chicken with layers of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor without requiring complex cooking techniques.
- Accessible Ingredients: Say goodbye to specialty store hunts! All the ingredients required for this delicious recipe are readily available at your local grocery store. We’ve prioritized common pantry staples and fresh components to make your cooking journey as smooth as possible.
- A Crowd-Pleaser for All Tastes: These skewers strike a perfect balance of heat and flavor, making them universally appealing. Spicy food enthusiasts will appreciate the gentle kick, while those with a milder palate can easily adjust the spice level. It’s a dish that guarantees smiles around the table.
- Budget-Friendly Goodness: Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank. Chicken breast is an economical protein, and the remaining ingredients are affordable, allowing you to create a memorable culinary experience that’s kind to your grocery budget.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time to streamline your cooking process on busy days. This dish is also fantastic for leftovers, making healthy and delicious meals throughout the week effortless.
Essential Ingredients for Your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Crafting these irresistible Bang Bang Chicken Skewers begins with a thoughtful selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Below is an overview of what you’ll need. For the precise measurements and a detailed, printable recipe, please refer to the recipe card located at the bottom of this page.
📋 Ingredient Deep Dive and Creative Variations
Understanding each component and its role in the flavor profile will help you master this recipe and even inspire your own variations:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: This lean and versatile protein forms the heart of our skewers. For optimal, even cooking, it’s crucial to cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes. This ensures each piece cooks thoroughly and remains succulent. If you prefer a richer flavor and even juicier results, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base of our marinade, mayonnaise, contributes to the Bang Bang sauce’s signature richness and helps tenderize the chicken. While regular full-fat mayonnaise offers the best flavor and texture, a lighter mayo or even Miracle Whip can be used if preferred, though it might slightly alter the taste profile.
- Soy Sauce: Essential for its umami depth and savory notes, soy sauce elevates the overall flavor of the marinade. For those monitoring sodium intake, a low-sodium soy sauce works perfectly without compromising taste. Tamari is also a great gluten-free alternative.
- Honey: This natural sweetener balances the savory and spicy elements of the marinade, providing a delightful hint of sweetness and aiding in caramelization during grilling. Any type of honey, from raw local honey to clover or wildflower varieties, will yield excellent results. Maple syrup can be used as a vegan alternative if adapting the recipe.
- Oil (Light Olive Oil or Neutral-Flavored): A good quality oil, such as light olive oil, avocado oil, or grapeseed oil, helps bind the marinade ingredients, ensures even coating, and contributes to the chicken’s tenderness. It also prevents sticking to the grill and helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown char.
- Worcestershire Sauce (Optional but Recommended): This savory condiment adds an extra layer of complex, rich, and slightly tangy flavor to the marinade. While optional, it deepens the taste profile and is highly recommended for an authentic Bang Bang experience.
- Garlic Powder: A staple in any spice cabinet, garlic powder imparts a warm, aromatic, and subtle garlic flavor that complements the other spices without overpowering them. Fresh minced garlic can also be used for a more pungent flavor.
- Paprika: Beyond its vibrant color, paprika introduces a lovely smoky and mildly spicy flavor. It harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of honey and the kick from chili flakes, adding depth to the marinade. Smoked paprika would intensify the smoky notes further.
- Oregano: Another pantry hero, dried oregano provides an earthy, slightly peppery, and aromatic quality that rounds out the spice blend, adding a touch of classic Mediterranean-inspired warmth.
- Red Chili Flakes (Red Pepper Flakes): For those who love a bit of heat, red chili flakes deliver a customizable spicy kick. Adjust the quantity to your preference – a little goes a long way! For a milder version, you can reduce or omit them, and for extra heat, feel free to add more.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a foundational layer of sharp, earthy flavor, enhancing the overall seasoning of the chicken. Adjust to your personal taste.
- Bang Bang Sauce (for serving): The glorious finishing touch! While store-bought bang bang sauce offers convenience, preparing your own homemade sauce allows for complete control over the flavor and spice level. We highly recommend our homemade version for its fresh, vibrant taste that perfectly complements the grilled skewers.
Before You Begin: Essential Tools for Grilling Success
Having the right tools on hand will make the preparation and cooking of your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers a breeze. These are the basic items you’ll need to achieve perfectly grilled results.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Indispensable for thoroughly combining your marinade ingredients and ensuring every piece of chicken is evenly coated. Choose a bowl large enough to comfortably toss the chicken without spillage.
- Skewers: The star of the show! You’ll need either bamboo or metal skewers to thread your marinated chicken. If using bamboo skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers are reusable and conduct heat well, helping to cook the chicken from the inside out.
- Grill: Whether you opt for an outdoor charcoal or gas grill for that smoky char, or an indoor grill pan or electric grill for convenience, any grilling apparatus will work. Ensure your grill is clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
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Grilling Perfection: Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating these delightful Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Below is a simplified overview of the steps. For the most detailed instructions, complete with precise timings and tips, please refer to the full recipe card below.
- Prepare the Marinade: In your large mixing bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients thoroughly. Whisk until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed raw chicken pieces to the prepared marinade. Ensure every piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes. For maximum flavor penetration and tenderness, marinate overnight (up to 24 hours).
- Thread the Skewers: Once marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto your bamboo or metal skewers. Be careful not to overcrowd the skewers, allowing a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill to Perfection: Preheat your outdoor or indoor grill to a medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates. Place the chicken skewers on the hot grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred. This typically takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on your grill’s temperature and chicken size.
- Serve with Bang Bang Sauce: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Drizzle generously with your favorite Bang Bang sauce and serve immediately.
Adaptable Recipe – Customize Your Skewers!
One of the best aspects of these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is how easily they can be adapted to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Get creative and make this recipe truly your own:
- Add Colorful Veggies and Fruit: For a more complete meal and an extra burst of flavor, try threading slices of vibrant bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), sweet red onion wedges, or juicy pineapple chunks in between the chicken pieces on your skewers. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also add visual appeal.
- Switch Up the Protein: While chicken breast is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with other proteins. If you crave even juicier and more flavorful chicken, swap out the breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Shrimp or firm tofu cubes also make excellent alternatives for a seafood or vegetarian twist, adjusting cooking times as needed.
- Elevate Your Garnishes: The right garnish can truly enhance the presentation and add a fresh finish. Finely chopped green onions (scallions) provide a mild oniony bite and a pop of color. Toasted sesame seeds offer a nutty crunch and an authentic Asian-inspired touch. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice can also brighten the flavors beautifully.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The beauty of Bang Bang sauce lies in its customizable heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red chili flakes in the marinade and opt for a less spicy Bang Bang sauce. For those who love intense heat, increase the chili flakes or add a touch of sriracha to your serving sauce.
- Try a Different Cooking Method: While grilling is ideal for that smoky flavor, these skewers can also be baked or air-fried. For baking, arrange on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. For air frying, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-18 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, until cooked through.
Expert Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken Skewers
Achieving perfectly cooked, juicy chicken skewers requires a few simple considerations. Follow these expert tips to ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers turn out flawless every time:
- Monitor Grilling Times Carefully: Cooking times can vary significantly based on your grill’s temperature, the type of grill you’re using (gas vs. charcoal), and the size of your chicken pieces. It’s crucial to watch your skewers closely to prevent overcooking, which can lead to dry chicken, or undercooking.
- Uniform Chicken Pieces are Key: For consistent and even cooking, always dice your chicken into similar-sized pieces, ideally 1-inch cubes. If some pieces are larger than others, they will cook at different rates, leading to some being overcooked while others are still raw.
- Ensure Food Safety with a Thermometer: The most reliable way to confirm your chicken is safely cooked is by checking its internal temperature. Use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a chicken chunk (avoiding the skewer). The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Prevent Sticking: Before placing your skewers on the grill, ensure the grill grates are clean and adequately oiled. This prevents the chicken from sticking and helps create beautiful grill marks. If using bamboo skewers, remember to soak them to prevent burning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Cook the skewers in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the grill can lower its temperature, leading to steaming rather than grilling, and preventing that desirable char and caramelization.
- Rest the Chicken: Once the skewers are cooked, transfer them to a clean plate and loosely tent with foil for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
Elevate Your Gatherings with These Crowd-Pleasing Skewers
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are not just a delicious meal; they are an absolute triumph for any social gathering. Their individual portion size, vibrant flavors, and appealing presentation make them ideal for parties, potlucks, and family dinners. They are easy to prepare in advance, simple to serve, and always a hit with guests of all ages.
Looking for more amazing grilled chicken recipes to impress your guests? Here are some fantastic options that pair wonderfully with these skewers or can stand alone as stars of your next feast:
- Grilled Nuggets
- Grilled Chicken Tenders
- Grilled Chicken Kabob – Middle Eastern Style
- BBQ Chicken Sliders
Storing and Reheating Your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are so delicious, you might not have any leftovers! But if you do, here’s how to properly store and reheat them to maintain their fantastic flavor and texture:
Refrigerate: Once cooled, remove the chicken from the skewers (if desired) and transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This ensures freshness and safety.
Freeze: For longer storage, cooked chicken skewers can be frozen. Place the cooled chicken (off the skewers is often best for space) in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: To bring your leftover skewers back to life, the best methods are typically the oven or air fryer.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chicken pieces (or entire skewers) on a baking sheet. Heat for 8-12 minutes, or until warmed through. Covering them loosely with foil can help prevent drying out.
- Air Fryer: For a crisper finish, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until thoroughly heated.
- Microwave: While convenient, the microwave can sometimes dry out chicken. If using, heat in short intervals (30-60 seconds) until warm, stirring if applicable.
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating.
Unlock Convenience: Make Ahead Tips
Streamline your cooking process and enjoy a stress-free meal even on your busiest nights by preparing elements of this recipe in advance. The ability to make ahead makes these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers a super easy and convenient option for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or entertaining.
The best way to get a head start is by marinating the chicken. You can combine all the marinade ingredients and add the raw chicken pieces, then let it sit in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before you plan to cook. This extended marination time not only infuses the chicken with deeper flavors but also tenderizes it, promising an even more delicious result. When you’re ready to cook, simply thread the chicken onto skewers and grill. This preparation strategy significantly cuts down on active cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a flavorful, homemade meal with minimal last-minute effort.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
These vibrant Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve them, creating a balanced and utterly satisfying meal:
- Fluffy Grains: My ultimate pairing for these skewers is a generous bed of light and aromatic Instant Pot Basmati Rice. The subtle fragrance and soft texture of the rice perfectly complement the bold flavors of the chicken. For an added touch of spice, drizzle a light layer of extra Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and rice, or opt for our zesty Creamy Sriracha Sauce for a delightful kick. Quinoa or couscous also make excellent grain alternatives.
- Fresh Vegetable Side Dishes: Balance the richness of the chicken with a refreshing vegetable side. These Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables, bursting with herbs and natural sweetness, are a fantastic choice. Other great options include a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, steamed broccoli, grilled asparagus, or a colorful coleslaw.
- Crisp Asian-Inspired Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing would provide a wonderful textural contrast and complement the Asian-inspired flavors of the Bang Bang sauce.
- Cool Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad, perhaps with a touch of rice vinegar and sesame oil, offers a refreshing counterpoint to the spicy chicken, cleansing the palate with every bite.
- Naan Bread or Pita: For a heartier meal, serve the skewers alongside warm naan bread or pita pockets. You can even remove the chicken from the skewers and wrap it in the bread for a delicious handheld experience.
💬 Your Questions Answered: FAQs
To help you prepare the best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
Both wooden and metal skewers have their advantages. I personally prefer cooking with wooden skewers because they are affordable, widely available, and offer the convenience of being disposable, which makes cleanup a breeze. However, metal skewers are reusable, durable, and conduct heat well, sometimes resulting in faster, more even cooking of the chicken from the inside out.
Absolutely! If you choose to use wooden skewers, it is highly recommended that you soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to threading your chicken. This crucial step saturates the wood with water, preventing the skewers from burning or catching fire while on the hot grill, ensuring your focus remains on cooking the chicken to perfection.
Yes, absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent substitute for chicken breasts. They tend to be more forgiving and remain juicier, even if slightly overcooked, due to their higher fat content. The cooking time might be similar, but always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
There are a few key steps to prevent sticking: First, ensure your grill grates are clean. Second, preheat your grill thoroughly. Third, lightly oil the grill grates just before placing the skewers. You can do this by folding a paper towel, dipping it in oil, and carefully wiping the hot grates with tongs. The oil in the marinade also helps.
Yes, the Bang Bang sauce can definitely be made ahead of time! Prepare the sauce according to the recipe and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. This makes meal prep even easier, allowing you to simply grill the chicken and serve when ready.
Discover More Delicious Chicken Creations
If you’ve fallen in love with the vibrant flavors of these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you’re in for a treat! Explore more chicken recipes that are guaranteed to become new family favorites:
- Craving More Bang Bang Flavor? If the irresistible taste of Bang Bang Sauce has captured your heart, then your next culinary adventure must be this amazing Bang Bang Chicken! It features the same beloved flavor profile in a slightly different format, perfect for diversifying your meal plan. It’s consistently a family favorite.
- A Mediterranean Delight: For those who appreciate perfectly balanced and tender chicken, our Chicken Shish Tawook is a must-try. Marinated in a creamy yogurt sauce, these skewers achieve an incredible tenderness and subtle tanginess that appeals to both young and old alike, making it a universally cherished dish.
- The Ultimate Dipping Companion: No chicken dish is complete without the perfect dipping sauce! Our delicious Lebanese Garlic Sauce (Toum) is my personal favorite to serve alongside grilled chicken. It’s incredibly creamy, wonderfully refreshing, and absolutely bursting with potent garlic flavor, elevating any meal it accompanies.
These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are honestly one of my all-time favorite “chicken-on-a-stick” recipes. I especially appreciate how easily everyone can customize the heat level to their personal preference. If you try and love this recipe, please consider leaving a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating in the recipe card below! Your feedback means a lot. Thank you for cooking with me!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes
- For the Marinade:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 3 Tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 Tablespoons honey
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil or any neutral-flavored oil of choice
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce optional, but recommended for depth of flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes optional, adjust to desired spice level
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
To serve:
- Bang Bang Sauce homemade or store-bought
Instructions
- In a large bowl, thoroughly combine all the marinade ingredients. Add the cubed chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or for best flavor, overnight (up to 24 hours).
- Preheat your outdoor or indoor grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto bamboo or metal skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking. Grill the skewers, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a light char (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove the cooked skewers from the grill. Drizzle generously with Bang Bang sauce before serving hot. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 9g
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Protein: 40g
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Fat: 16g
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Saturated Fat: 3g
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Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g
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Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
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Trans Fat: 0.04g
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Cholesterol: 121mg
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Sodium: 938mg
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Potassium: 755mg
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 8g
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Vitamin A: 290IU
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Vitamin C: 3mg
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Calcium: 26mg
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Iron: 1mg
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