If you're craving a quick and tasty meal, try these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers! This easy recipe combines juicy chicken with a zesty sauce, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. I'll guide you step by step, from marinating the chicken to grilling it just right. Plus, I’ll share tips for serving and storing leftovers. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of spices and cornstarch creates a deliciously seasoned chicken that is both crispy and juicy.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to cater to your personal spice preference, making it suitable for everyone.
- Perfect for Sharing: These skewers are great for entertaining, allowing guests to dip and enjoy them at their leisure.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
To create tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you need simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
These ingredients work together to give the chicken a nice crunch and great flavor. The cornstarch helps the seasoning stick and adds texture when grilled.
For the Bang Bang sauce, you will mix:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust this based on your spice level)
The sauce is creamy and sweet with a kick. It pairs perfectly with the chicken skewers.
These ingredients are easy to find. You can make this dish any day of the week. Just gather them, and you are ready to cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Process
Marinating the chicken cubes First, take your 1 pound of chicken breast. Cut it into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, mix the chicken with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This mix adds flavor and helps the chicken get crispy.
Preparing the Bang Bang sauce In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce, and 1 tablespoon of Sriracha. Taste the sauce. If you want more heat, add more Sriracha. This sauce is creamy and spicy, perfect for dipping!
Cooking Instructions
Grilling the skewers Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Carefully thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers. Leave a small gap between pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and get those nice grill marks. Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them often to ensure even cooking.
Achieving perfect grill marks Look for a golden brown color on the chicken. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This step keeps the chicken juicy and tender. Serve the skewers warm with the Bang Bang sauce on the side or drizzled on top. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To make sure the chicken is well-coated, mix the chicken and cornstarch carefully. You want every piece to have a nice layer of seasoning. If you have time, let it sit for 15 minutes. This helps to absorb flavors better.
For grilling, set your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill gives nice grill marks and keeps the chicken juicy. If you are using a grill pan, heat it on the stove for a few minutes before adding the skewers. You can test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water. If they sizzle, it’s ready!
Serving Tips
When serving the skewers, presentation matters. Arrange them on a large platter. Add fresh cilantro and lime wedges for color. This not only looks great but also adds fresh flavor.
As for side dishes, consider serving rice or a fresh salad. These pair well with the spicy Bang Bang sauce. You could also offer a cool cucumber salad to balance the heat. Enjoy your meal!
Pro Tips
- Marinate for More Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, to deepen the flavor and tenderness.
- Use an Instant Read Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use an instant-read thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to experiment with the Bang Bang sauce by adding lime juice or a splash of soy sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning and ensure they hold up during cooking.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch out the chicken for other proteins. Tofu works well for a veggie twist. Shrimp is a great option too. Both will soak up the flavors nicely.
You can also change the sauce base. Swap mayonnaise for yogurt for a lighter touch. If you want a spicier kick, add more Sriracha or a dash of hot sauce. You can even mix in peanut butter for a rich taste. This gives a whole new flavor to the dish.
Cooking Methods
If grilling is not your thing, try air frying. It cooks the skewers quickly and keeps them crispy. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook for about 10 minutes.
Baking is another easy method. Lay the skewers on a baking sheet. Bake them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. Check for that golden brown look.
Broiling is perfect for indoor cooking. Position the skewers close to the heat. Broil for about 5-7 minutes on each side. This gives a nice char and keeps them juicy.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your Bang Bang chicken skewers, store any leftovers safely. Place the cooked skewers in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh and tasty. You can also wrap them in foil or plastic wrap. In the fridge, they last up to three days. Make sure to cool them to room temperature before storing. This prevents moisture buildup and sogginess.
Reheating Suggestions
Reheating your skewers can be tricky. You want them warm without drying out. The best method is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in. Heat them for about 10 minutes. If you prefer using a microwave, keep the skewers on a plate. Add a damp paper towel on top to keep them moist. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm. This way, they stay juicy and delicious!
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. The chicken should also look golden brown and have no pink inside. If you cut into a piece, the juices should run clear.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken skewers ahead of time. Marinate the chicken and thread it onto the skewers. Cover and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just grill them as normal. This saves time on busy days.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pair well with a variety of sides. Try serving them with:
- Steamed rice or jasmine rice
- A fresh green salad
- Grilled vegetables
- Rice noodles with a light sauce
- A tangy slaw for crunch
These sides balance the flavors and add texture to your meal.
Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is fun and simple. You learned about the key ingredients, like chicken and seasonings, and how to make a tasty sauce. I shared the step-by-step process for marinating, grilling, and serving. You also got tips for cooking and storing leftovers.
Try different ingredients and cooking methods to find your favorite twist. Enjoy these skewers at your next meal or gathering. Happy cooking!
