Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are fun and tasty! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet and zesty sauce, then grilled to perfection on sticks. They are perfect for sharing at parties!
These skewers never fail to impress my friends. They love the spicy kick and sweet flavor! I like to serve them with a simple salad on the side for a fresh touch. Enjoy them anytime! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I love using boneless skinless chicken breasts for kebabs. They stay juicy and cook evenly. If you prefer, you can use thighs for extra flavor, or even plant-based protein if you’re keeping it vegetarian!
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise in the marinade adds creaminess. A great substitute is Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or vegan mayo for a lighter option without dairy.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This ingredient gives the skewers a sweet and spicy kick! If you can’t find it, mix honey with some chili flakes for a simple alternative.
Sriracha Sauce: Sriracha brings some heat! Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. Alternatively, use any hot sauce you have on hand, or go for a milder option like ketchup if you need a kid-friendly version.
Garlic & Ginger Powder: While garlic and ginger powder are convenient, fresh versions deliver a brighter flavor. Just mince some fresh garlic and ginger instead, using about 1 teaspoon each.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Grill Perfectly?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but here’s how to do it right. Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in and keeps the chicken moist.
- Make sure your grill is preheated. Medium-high heat is great to get those lovely grill marks.
- If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- When threading the chicken on skewers, leave a little space between pieces; this ensures they cook evenly.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should read 165°F (75°C) inside.
Basting with extra marinade adds more flavor while they cook, just give it a minute to cook off any raw bits, then enjoy those tasty skewers!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
For Grilling:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare plus at least 30 minutes for marinating. If you want more flavor, you can marinate the chicken for up to 3 hours. Grilling will take about 15 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes or more, depending on your marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, start by combining the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk or spoon to mix it all together until it’s well blended.
2. Add Chicken:
Now, toss in the chicken cubes, making sure to coat them evenly with that tasty marinade. Once everything is nicely mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you can, up to 3 hours, to really soak in those flavors!
3. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes; this will help prevent burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the marinating time is up, it’s time to cook! Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place your skewers on the grill and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them until the chicken is cooked through and has those beautiful grill marks. You can baste them with any extra marinade if you like while grilling for added flavor!
6. Serve:
When they’re done, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve hot, and don’t forget to offer some extra sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Feel free to use shrimp, pork, or tofu if you’re looking for a different protein option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly: shrimp cooks faster, while tofu may need a bit longer if you prefer it crispy.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise in the Marinade?
If you’re looking for a healthier or dairy-free alternative, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It will give a similar creaminess while adding a tangy flavor. You can also use avocado or a vegan mayo if you prefer!
Can I Make the Marinade and Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to 3 hours in advance. For even more flavor, marinate it overnight. Assemble the skewers right before grilling to ensure they’re fresh and juicy!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy them as a quick snack or add to salads!
