These Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are juicy and packed with flavor! Tender chicken pieces are marinated and grilled to perfection, then topped with a creamy, spicy sauce that brings the fun!
If you’re ready for a simple dinner that makes everyone smile, these skewers are it! I love serving them with crunchy veggies for a fresh side. Perfect for those nights when you want tasty and quick! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just fine! If you’re vegetarian, try marinated tofu or mushrooms for a tasty swap.
Soy Sauce: This adds savory depth. If you’re avoiding soy, tamari is a great gluten-free alternative, or coconut aminos for a milder flavor.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness to the marinade. If you’re vegan, agave syrup or maple syrup makes a nice substitute.
Bang Bang Sauce: If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also tweak the spiciness by adding more or less sriracha.
How Do I Marinate Chicken Properly?
Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor! Here’s how to get the best results:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl. The soy sauce, honey, and spices create a tasty coating.
- Add the chicken, ensuring it’s well covered. The longer it sits, the more flavor it absorbs. 30 minutes minimum is great, but 2 hours gives you better taste.
- Keep it in the fridge while marinating to stay safe.
This simple step makes a world of difference in the final dish!
What’s the Best Way to Grill Chicken Skewers?
Grilling gives the chicken those yummy char marks, which makes it look and taste amazing:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is crucial for even cooking and nice browning.
- Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the skewers 4-5 minutes on each side until they reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Don’t flip too often; let them sear for those nice grill lines!
Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8-10 metal or soaked wooden skewers
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil for grilling
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to preferred heat)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
For Garnish:
- Finely chopped green onions or chives
- Sesame seeds (black and white if available)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires approximately 30 minutes for preparation, plus 30 minutes to 2 hours for marinating the chicken. Cooking will take about 10 minutes. So, set aside about 1 hour total—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss well to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how much time you have.
2. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, whip up the bang bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and honey until smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the heat and sweetness based on your preference. Once ready, set it aside.
3. Assemble the Skewers:
After marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly brush it with vegetable or canola oil to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken skewers for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely charred and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving plate. Drizzle your delicious bang bang sauce generously over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little extra heat. Serve immediately alongside fresh vegetables, rice, or a light salad!
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
FAQ for Easy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Different Proteins for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If chicken isn’t your preference, you can substitute it with shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly; shrimp cooks much quicker and tofu should be pre-pressed for better texture.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is ideal, but you can marinate it up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. If you go beyond 2 hours, the chicken may become too salty, especially if you use soy sauce.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time! It refrigerates well for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving, as it may separate a little while sitting.
What Should I Serve With Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables. For a fun twist, you can serve them in lettuce wraps!
