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These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers deliver bold flavors from a vibrant marinade and a crave-worthy creamy spicy sauce Their quick prep and grill time make them a fantastic weeknight solution or a party pleaser I made these on a whim for a backyard barbecue and everyone asked for the recipe before the night even ended
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose plump pieces for juicier skewers
- Olive oil: adds moisture and helps the marinade cling
- Garlic powder: choose fresh and aromatic for a punchy flavor
- Onion powder: brings mellow depth
- Smoked paprika: use a good-quality jar for deep smoky notes it makes a difference
- Salt and pepper: do a quick taste of your salt for sharpness if it is sea salt start with less
- Mayonnaise: creates that classic creamy base for the sauce
- Sweet chili sauce: look for bottles with real visible chili for the best balance of sweet and heat
- Sriracha: tastes range from extra hot to mild so add slowly until it hits your spice preference
- Wooden skewers: soak them in water to prevent burning on the grill metal ones work too
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place chicken cubes into a large bowl Add olive oil garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and pepper Mix thoroughly with your hands to coat every piece Let the mixture rest at least fifteen minutes for maximum flavor infusion
- Thread the Skewers:
- Take each soaked skewer and carefully thread four to five chicken pieces onto it Leave a gap between the pieces so the heat surrounds each cube
- Grill the Skewers:
- Place prepared skewers on a preheated grill or grill pan over medium-high heat Cook for ten to twelve minutes Use tongs to turn occasionally so each side gets those delicious grill marks Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest cube it should be opaque and juices should run clear
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Combine mayonnaise sweet chili sauce and sriracha in a small mixing bowl Blend until smooth Adjust sriracha to taste for extra heat
- Rest and Serve:
- Remove cooked skewers and let them rest a couple minutes This keeps them juicy Either drizzle sauce over or offer it on the side for dipping I always serve some extra for scoopers
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Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator They keep well for up to three days The sauce should be covered and chilled separately to keep it fresh and creamy If reheating skewer them again and warm up on a low grill or in a 325 oven
Ingredient Substitutions
Try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy lighter sauce option You can use chicken thighs for an extra juicy bite or swap in tofu or firm vegetables like zucchini for a vegetarian version If you do not have smoked paprika a mix of regular paprika and cumin can be used
Serving Suggestions
Pair these skewers with a simple salad or pile them over fluffy steamed rice Add sliced cucumbers or fresh cilantro for brightness They are also perfect as part of a picnic platter with fresh cut veggies and extra dipping sauce
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A Touch of History
The famous bang bang sauce was popularized by Asian fusion restaurants but the idea of flavorful grilled skewers stretches back to street food in many cultures My family always said meals on sticks are the most fun and I could not agree more
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for juicier, more flavorful skewers. Adjust grilling time as needed.
- → What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?
Greek yogurt makes a lighter, tangy alternative to mayonnaise for the bang bang sauce.
- → How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to help prevent burning.
- → How spicy is the bang bang sauce?
The level of heat depends on the amount of sriracha used. Adjust to your taste preference.
- → Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or onions pair well with the marinated chicken and add color and nutrition.