Grilling season is here, and there’s nothing better than whipping up something that packs a punch of flavors. Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the perfect combination of spicy, sweet, and savory, with juicy chicken grilled to perfection. This dish is inspired by the bold flavors of Asian cuisine, incorporating a delicious marinade and a creamy dipping sauce that takes these skewers to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a quick, flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering dish step by step.
Why You’ll Love These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer a balance of heat from the sriracha, sweetness from the honey, and a tangy twist from the rice vinegar. Each bite is tender, juicy, and bursting with bold flavors. The creamy Bang Bang sauce served alongside adds an extra layer of richness and spice, making it an irresistible dish for all. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve these skewers as an appetizer, a main dish, or even incorporate them into salads or wraps for a meal with a twist.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
To make the best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: Chicken breast is lean, tender, and absorbs the marinade beautifully.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the marinade.
- 2 tbsp honey: The sweetness of honey balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and enhances caramelization while grilling.
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar: Provides a tangy flavor and tenderizes the chicken.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil: Helps keep the chicken moist and prevents sticking during grilling.
- 1 tbsp minced garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the chicken with aromatic and savory flavor.
- 1 tbsp minced ginger: Adds a hint of spice and warmth, balancing the garlic.
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes: Provides a mild heat and enhances the overall flavor.
Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce that contrasts beautifully with the spicy flavors.
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a mild heat to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (optional): Adds extra heat for those who like a spicy kick.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
Additional:
- Wooden or metal skewers: Used for grilling the chicken. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
The key to any flavorful grilled dish is a good marinade, and the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are no exception. The marinade will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors.
- Whisk the Marinade Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 tbsp minced garlic, 1 tbsp minced ginger, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Cut 1 lb of chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged and coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
- Tip: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. If you’re in a hurry, 30 minutes will do, but if you have more time, allowing the chicken to marinate for an hour or two will make a big difference in taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While your chicken is marinating, it’s time to prepare the Bang Bang sauce. This creamy, spicy sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the chicken skewers, offering a rich contrast to the grilled chicken’s smoky flavor.
- Mix the Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce, and 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (optional for extra heat). Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well-blended.
- Season to Taste: Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the spice level to your preference – add more sriracha if you want it spicier, or stick with the sweet chili sauce for a milder flavor.
- Set Aside: Once the sauce is ready, set it aside in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Step 3: Thread the Chicken on Skewers
Now that your chicken has marinated, it’s time to prepare it for the grill.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using an outdoor grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Thread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the pieces onto wooden or metal skewers. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Tip: If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will prevent them from burning on the grill.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken Skewers
Grilling is where the magic happens. The high heat will create a delicious char on the outside of the chicken while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Brush with Marinade: While grilling, brush the chicken skewers with some of the reserved marinade to add extra flavor and moisture.
- Tip: Do not use the marinade that the raw chicken was sitting in. If you want to brush the chicken with marinade during grilling, set aside a portion of the marinade before adding the raw chicken.
Step 5: Serve with Bang Bang Sauce
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender, juicy chicken.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the grilled chicken skewers with the Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair with Sides: These skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides such as rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple cucumber salad or some garlic butter noodles.
Conclusion:
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are not only visually appealing but also packed with layers of flavor. The combination of the sweet, tangy marinade with the spicy, creamy Bang Bang sauce creates an addictive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving these skewers at a backyard barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.
These skewers offer a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savory flavors, all grilled to perfection. Plus, they are incredibly versatile – you can serve them as an appetizer, a main dish, or incorporate them into salads or wraps for a quick meal.