These tasty grilled Bang Bang chicken skewers are packed with flavor! The chicken is marinated, then grilled to a juicy perfection and topped with a zesty sauce that adds a nice kick!
Whenever I make these skewers, my whole family gets excited! They’re great for gatherings or just a fun dinner at home. Plus, they’re super easy to prep—grab a few skewers and let the grilling begin!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using turkey breast, or for a vegetarian twist, firm tofu or mushrooms can be great substitutes.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo adds creaminess, but you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. Vegan mayo is another great choice if you’re avoiding egg products.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This component brings sweetness and a touch of heat. If you can’t find it, a mix of honey and a little vinegar or hot sauce can replicate the flavor. Just adjust to your taste.
Sriracha: For a milder kick, you can swap it with some ketchup mixed with a pinch of red pepper flakes. Alternatively, if you like it spicier, go ahead and increase the amount.
How Do I Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is a key step that develops deep flavors. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Combine all marinade ingredients until smooth, ensuring an even mix of flavors.
- Always reserve some marinade before adding the chicken. This will be used for serving later.
- After adding the chicken to the marinade, make sure each piece is well-coated.
- Cover and refrigerate: an hour is good, but overnight is better for the flavors to fully develop.
This patience will pay off with a much tastier chicken!
What Is the Best Way to Grill Chicken Skewers Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling can be tricky, but here are some tips to keep your chicken juicy:
- Ensure your grill is preheated properly to cook the chicken evenly and get nice grill marks.
- Cut chicken into even, bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking. Avoid overcrowding the skewers.
- Turn them occasionally to prevent burning and encourage even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F (75°C) ensures safety while keeping the meat juicy.
With these guidelines, you can enjoy perfectly grilled chicken every time!
How to Make Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8-10 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour for marinating, plus around 20 minutes for preparation and grilling. So, you’ll need about 1 hour and 20 minutes total. If you can, marinate the chicken overnight for even better flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This sauce will give your chicken a wonderful flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take out about 1/4 cup of the marinade and set it aside for later use. Now, add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the rest of the marinade. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour; overnight is even better for all those yummy flavors to soak in!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready for the skewers.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken has marinated, take it out of the fridge. Thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly—leave a little space between each piece to ensure it cooks evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place the skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want to see those delicious grill marks and make sure the chicken is cooked all the way through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat!
6. Serve:
Once the chicken skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill. Drizzle the reserved marinade over the top or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for a fresh touch!
7. Enjoy:
Serve these delightful skewers right away! They make a perfect appetizer or main dish alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option for grilling as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just cut them into similar bite-sized pieces as you would with the breasts, and follow the rest of the recipe as is!
What If I Don’t Have Sweet Chili Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of honey and sriracha to get that sweet and spicy flavor. Alternatively, you can use a combination of ketchup with a little sugar and red pepper flakes for a quick fix!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for a minute or two or warm them up on a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You might want to drizzle a little olive oil to prevent them from drying out.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare and store the marinade in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to keep it in a sealed container. When you’re ready to use it, give it a good stir as the ingredients may separate over time.
