These Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty dish! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet and spicy sauce, then grilled to perfection on skewers.
These skewers are perfect for gatherings or just a cozy dinner. I love serving them with extra sauce for dipping—who can resist a little more flavor? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I prefer chicken breast for its lean quality, which keeps the dish healthy. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier bite. Even tofu or seitan works well for a plant-based option!
Mayonnaise: This gives creaminess to the marinade. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a good substitute. It adds a tangy flavor, but keep in mind it won’t be as rich.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is key for the signature taste. If you don’t have it, you can mix sugar and vinegar with a hint of ketchup as a makeshift substitute, though it won’t have the same depth of flavor.
Sriracha Sauce: Adjust this based on your heat preference! If you want less heat, try chili garlic sauce or even a mild hot sauce. For a sweeter take, sweet chili sauce alone can be used as well.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh is best when it comes to flavor! For convenience, you can use ground ginger and garlic powder, though the taste won’t be quite the same.
How Do I Marinate Chicken Properly?
Marinating is crucial for flavor! Here’s how to do it right: Combine all your marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix them well. The key is to ensure each chicken piece is fully coated. You can use a resealable bag for ease – just add the chicken and squeeze out the air before sealing.
- Make sure to marinate for at least 1 hour or even overnight for deeper flavor.
- If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will help, but plan ahead if you can!
How to Make Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour for marinating the chicken (up to overnight for better flavor). Additionally, grilling will take about 10-12 minutes. Overall, you’ll need around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish if you allow for marination.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they are fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, let it marinate overnight if you can!
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step and move right to prepping.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). This ensures a nice sear on your chicken skewers!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken and thread the pieces onto the skewers. Make sure not to overcrowd them; give the chicken some space so it can cook evenly. Aim for a nice balance of chicken, but don’t pack them too tightly!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning them every 3-4 minutes. You want them to be cooked through and have lovely grill marks. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
6. Serve:
After grilling, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, sprinkle them with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Enjoy these delicious skewers warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Thigh Meat Instead of Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add an extra layer of flavor and tenderness. Just keep in mind that they may take a minute or two longer to cook through, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level of the Marinade?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the Sriracha sauce to 1 tablespoon or omit it altogether. You can also add some honey or sugar to balance the sweetness and heat desired. If you like it spicier, feel free to increase the Sriracha or add some chopped fresh chilis!
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also pop them back on the grill for a few minutes to crisp them up again!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to mix well before adding the chicken to ensure everything is evenly coated. This can help the flavors deepen even more!
