Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated and grilled on skewers, then topped with a creamy, spicy sauce that brings the flavor to life.
These skewers are perfect for a party or a cozy dinner. I love serving them with a side of veggies or rice. Just a heads up, they might disappear fast, so get ready to share—or not! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for these skewers. If you’re looking for options, thighs offer more flavor and stay moist. You can also use tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Greek Yogurt: This gives a creamy texture to the marinade. If dairy is not an option, coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt works as a good substitute. I love the tanginess Greek yogurt brings!
Sriracha: Adjust this to your heat preference. If Sriracha is unavailable, you can use chili paste or even a homemade hot sauce. I recommend starting with a smaller amount and adding more if you like it spicy!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness to balance the heat. If you need a vegan option, maple syrup or agave syrup works just as well!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a rich flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika work or even chili powder can add a nice kick. I always keep a jar of smoked paprika handy for that delicious smoky taste!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy While Grilling?
Keeping chicken juicy is a common concern! Here’s how to ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are moist:
- Marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best. This helps the chicken absorb flavor and moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Give each piece some room for even cooking.
- Cook over medium-high heat; too high can dry out the chicken. Keep an eye on it and turn occasionally for even cooking.
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute.
With these tips, your skewers will be succulent and full of flavor! Enjoy grilling!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour of marinating time, preferably overnight for the best flavor. Cooking the chicken skewers on the grill will take around 10-15 minutes. So overall, you’ll need at least 1 hour and 35 minutes, or longer if you choose to marinate overnight.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Make sure they’re nice and even so they cook uniformly. Place the chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Marinade:
In another bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, honey, soy sauce, Sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until it’s nicely combined to form a tasty marinade.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces and make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it into the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you have the time to let those flavors sink in.
4. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks.
5. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers:
Take the soaked wooden skewers and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them. Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between pieces to help them cook evenly.
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Turn them occasionally to make sure they get nice and golden on all sides, and check that the chicken is cooked through completely.
7. Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
While the chicken is grilling, you can whip up a simple Bang Bang sauce by mixing additional Sriracha with mayonnaise to your taste, or serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
8. Let Them Rest:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the skewers with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and color. Serve them alongside your dipping sauce for a delicious meal. Enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and stay juicier than breasts. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. The marinating time will be the same!
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No worries! You can substitute Greek yogurt with regular plain yogurt or sour cream. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different, but it should still taste great!
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a preheated grill or skillet for a few minutes until they’re warmed through, ensuring they remain moist.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance! Just store it in the fridge in a sealed container. When you’re ready to use it, simply add the chicken pieces and proceed with the recipe as usual.
