This Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is a winner! Juicy chicken thighs are cooked in a tasty sauce made from sweet chili, mayo, and a hint of garlic.
It’s easy to whip up and makes dinner fun. I love serving it with rice to soak up that gorgeous sauce. Just be ready for everyone to ask for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are tender and flavorful, making them perfect for this dish. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out quicker, so be cautious with cooking time.
Mayonnaise: It gives the dish a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute. It adds creaminess and a bit of tang without extra fat.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds sweetness and spice. If you don’t have it, you could mix honey with a bit of vinegar or use ketchup with a pinch of sugar for a similar effect.
Sriracha: This gives a spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your taste. You can also use hot sauce or even crushed red pepper if you’re out of sriracha.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors. You can substitute it with lemon juice if limes aren’t available, though the taste will be slightly different.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Golden Brown?
Getting your chicken thighs nice and golden takes some care, but it’s worth it for flavor! Here are some tips:
- Start with a hot skillet: Heat your vegetable oil on medium-high heat until it shimmers. This helps achieve that golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If the skillet is too full, the chicken will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed.
- Check doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F. This ensures it’s cooked perfectly without being dry.
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Sauce:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup scallions, sliced
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. So, in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a fantastic meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs to the skillet. Sear them for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Let it melt, then mix in the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, garlic powder, ginger powder, and lime juice. Stir everything well to combine, creating a creamy and flavorful sauce.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, making sure to spoon the creamy sauce over the top of the chicken to coat it well. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for about 5 minutes, ensuring it’s nicely heated through and infused with flavor.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the skillet off the heat and garnish your Bang Bang Chicken Thighs with sliced scallions and fresh parsley if you like. Serve it hot with rice, noodles, or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used as a substitute! Just remember that they may cook a bit faster, so check for doneness around the 5-6 minute mark on each side. Also, consider adding a bit more moisture to the sauce to keep them juicy, as breasts tend to dry out more than thighs.
What if I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter alternative. Just mix it with a little bit of olive oil or milk to achieve a similar creamy consistency as mayonnaise.
How to Make This Dish Spicier?
If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the amount of sriracha or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also substitute the sweet chili sauce with a spicier chili sauce or add fresh minced chilies to the sauce for an extra kick!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or oil if the sauce has thickened.
