Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a super tasty meal thats become really popular in kitchens all over. You soak chicken chunks in a flavourful mix, stick them on skewers, then grill or bake them till theyre done and golden. After that you pour on a creamy spicy sauce called Bang Bang sauce. Its a mix of sweet, spicy and creamy flavors borrowed from Asian cooking, so its great for parties or just a weeknight dinner.
The origin of Bang Bang Chicken is kinda unclear, but most people say it started from Asian street food where meat on sticks is normal. Lots of restaurants and home cooks each have their own version. In the US its really caught on because it taste awesome and its easy to make.
What makes Bang Bang Chicken Skewers so popular isnt just the bold taste, its also how quick and simple they are. Perfect for barbecues, busy weeknights or when friends drop by. The chicken soaks up the marinade and then you get that crazy mix of creamy and spicy sauce on top, making it a must try if you want something different and yummy.
What Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are basically chicken pieces that been marinated in a tasty sauce and then threaded onto sticks. You can grill or bake em till theyre juicy inside and have a little char on the outside. The name “Bang Bang” hints at that big hit of creaminess, sweetness and heat you get from the sauce in each bite.
You can also add veggies like bell peppers, zucchini or cherry tomatoes so they look colorful and give a crunchy bite. The trick is to let the chicken rest in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, ginger and a bit of brown sugar before cooking. Then you drizzle the special Bang Bang sauce on top for extra yum.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
To make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers great, you need the right stuff. Each ingredient plays its part in the flavor.
- Chicken: You can use chicken breast or thighs. Breast is leaner and mild, while thighs have more juice and richer taste. Wich one you pick affects how tender and moist the skewers will be.
- Marinade: Combine soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar and sesame oil. This gives the chicken a nice salty, garlicky and sweet flavor. Dont forget to stir well so the chicken is coated all over.
- Sauce: The star is the Bang Bang sauce. Its usually mayo, sweet chili sauce and sriracha. Mayo makes it creamy, chili sauce adds sweetness, and sriracha brings the heat. You can change how spicy by adding more or less sriracha.
- Skewers: You can use wooden or metal skewers. If you pick wooden ones, soak them in water for 30 minutes so they dont burn. Metal skewers are reusable but they get hot fast.
- Vegetables (optional): Bell peppers, zucchini or cherry tomatoes are great on skewers. They add color, crunch and extra nutrients.
- Suggested side dishes: Serve these with steamed rice, a simple salad or even crispy fries for a fun twist.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Recipe
Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is easy and quick. Just follow these steps and youll have a crowd pleaser in no time.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Servings: 4
Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tablespoon sriracha (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bamboo or metal skewers
Directions
- Trim the chicken and cut into bite sized pieces.
- In a bowl mix soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar and sesame oil. Add chicken and toss so its all coated. Let it marinate at least 15 minutees or longer if you have time.
- If you use bamboo skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to stop them burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. You can alternate with veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Cook on a preheated grill, in an oven broiler or in an air fryer until chicken is cooked through and has a bit of char, about 10–15 mins depending on method.
- While cooking, whisk mayo, sweet chili sauce and sriracha in a small bowl. Taste and add more sriracha if you want more spice.
- When skewers are done, drizzle or dip them in the Bang Bang sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Preheat grill or pan first so you get nice grill marks on the chicken.
- Cooking times can vary with chunk size; make sure the inside reaches 165°F (75°C) so its not underdone or dry.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less sriracha to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange the skewers on a big tray and garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions to make it look nice. Pair with steamed rice or a fresh salad. A crunchy slaw or an Asian style salad with sesame dressing is also great. For a fun twist serve with fries.
To drink, try a light beer, a fruity white wine or a cold iced tea. The goal is to balance the heat of the sauce.
If you got leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can eat them cold, reheat or even chop the chicken into salads and wraps for lunch.
Nutritional Information
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are not only tasty but also high in protein. Calories depend on extras and sides. Chicken gives you protein and vitamins, and veggies add fiber. By mixing in more vegetables you get more nutrients and fewer carbs.
If you need gluten free, swap soy sauce for tamari. To cut calories, use light mayo or more veggies in the skewers.
Variations and Tips
You can use other proteins like shrimp, tofu or beef for a twist. Shrimp cooks fast and tofu soaks the sauce well. Try different spices or citrus in the marinade to make your own version. You can bake, grill, air fry or pan sear these skewers depending on your kitchen setup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the chicken makes it dry and tough, so watch your time and temp. Don’t skip the marinade because thats where all the flavour comes from. If you use wooden skewers, soak them first or theyll burn. With metal skewers be careful when you handle them cause they get really hot.
And remember, its ok to tweak the flavors so it suits your taste. Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are all about having fun with food.
FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
What does “Bang Bang” mean?
It refers to the bold punch you get from the sauce – creamy, sweet and spicy all at once.
Can you make them ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and even thread the skewers a few hours before cooking. Saves time when guests arrive.
What other meats work?
Shrimp, beef and tofu are good options if you want to change things up.
Can you freeze them?
You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Thaw before grilling or baking for even cooking.
What’s a good vegetarian substitute?
Firm tofu, tempeh or big mushrooms like portobello work well and soak up the Bang Bang sauce.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun, flavorful dish that mixes sweet, creamy and spicy in every bite. Whether you’re grilling at a barbecue or cooking a quick dinner, these skewers will wow your friends and family. Don’t be afraid to try new ingredients and share your tasty creations.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Equipment
- 1 skewers wood or metal
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 grill or grill pan
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 basting brush
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce Adjust for spice preference
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- salt and pepper To taste
- optional garnishes Chopped green onions, sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until smooth to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to soak in the flavors.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) indicates that the chicken is adequately cooked.
- Use a basting brush to regularly coat the chicken skewers with any remaining marinade during grilling for extra flavor.
- Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers hot, garnished with optional chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
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