Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

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Juicy, char-grilled chicken bites drizzled with a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce—Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into a party on a stick. Each skewer is perfectly seared for a lightly smoky flavor, then coated in a luscious bang bang sauce that balances garlic, heat, and a hint of sweetness. Whether you serve them as a main course, appetizer, or party platter, they bring bold flavor and vibrant presentation.

This dish brings together the tenderness of marinated chicken with a flavor-packed, creamy chili sauce inspired by Asian-American fusion cuisine. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen but still delivers that “wow” factor when it hits the table. Quick enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests—what more could you ask for?

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Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Bold flavor: The sauce has a perfect mix of heat, creaminess, and a touch of sweetness.
• Quick and easy: Marinate, skewer, grill, and drizzle—done in under 40 minutes.
• Versatile: Serve it over rice, in wraps, with salad, or as a snack.
• Crowd-pleaser: It’s hard not to love spicy grilled chicken with a killer sauce.
• Perfect for meal prep: Skewers reheat beautifully and pack well in lunches.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment (and Why They Matter)

To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers come out juicy, evenly cooked, and beautifully presented, having the right tools is key:

• Skewers (wooden or metal) – These are essential for holding your chicken chunks in place. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
• Grill pan or outdoor grill – You want that char-grilled flavor and slightly smoky crust. A nonstick grill pan is great for indoor cooking, while an outdoor grill gives an authentic smoky depth.
• Mixing bowls – Use one for the marinade and another for the sauce. Stainless steel or glass bowls work best for easy cleanup and non-reactivity with acidic ingredients.
• Whisk or fork – This helps to thoroughly combine the bang bang sauce until smooth and creamy.
• Tongs – Useful for flipping skewers without breaking the meat apart.
• Brush or spoon (optional) – For basting the chicken with marinade or brushing on extra sauce while grilling.

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Preparation Tips

• Cut evenly: Cube the chicken into uniform sizes—about 1.5-inch pieces—to ensure even cooking.
• Marinate for at least 20 minutes: While this dish doesn’t require a long marination, giving the chicken at least 20–30 minutes in the fridge enhances the flavor and tenderness.
• Use high heat: Whether grilling indoors or outdoors, a hot surface ensures a quick sear and locks in juices without drying the chicken.
• Rest after grilling: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay moist.
• Thin the sauce if needed: If your bang bang sauce feels too thick, add a splash of warm water or lime juice for drizzling consistency.

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Ingredients for This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – Adds umami depth and seasoning
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Gives a subtle nutty aroma
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Adds acidity to tenderize the chicken
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Brings aromatic sharpness
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger – Optional, for warm spice notes
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar – Balances the savory with a hint of sweetness

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce – Adds sweet heat and tang
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste) – Brings the fiery kick
• 1 tablespoon honey – Smooths and sweetens the sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice – Brightens the flavor
• Pinch of salt and black pepper – To balance and season

Garnish (optional but recommended):

• Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro – Adds freshness and color
• Toasted sesame seeds – For crunch and a visual pop

Notes:

• You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayo if you’re aiming for a lighter sauce.
• Chicken thighs tend to stay juicier than breasts if you’re grilling over open flame.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and honey. Stir well to create a balanced marinade. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes.

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Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and vinegar (or lime juice). Taste and adjust the spice or sweetness to your liking. Set aside in the fridge to let the flavors meld.

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Step 3: Skewer the Chicken

If using wooden skewers, make sure they’re soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread 4–5 chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a little space between them to allow even cooking.

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Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Heat your grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the surface. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes to get an even char on all sides. Chicken should be golden brown with internal temp at 165°F (74°C).

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Step 5: Drizzle and Garnish

Once grilled, transfer skewers to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with bang bang sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping. Finish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for garnish.

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Notes

• Marination Time: While 20–30 minutes works well, marinating for up to 4 hours will deepen the flavor even more without over-tenderizing the chicken.
• Grill Alternatives: Don’t have a grill? Use a cast iron skillet or broil the skewers in your oven for similar caramelization.
• Make it lighter: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt in the sauce for a lower-fat version that still holds creaminess.
• Spice Level Control: Adjust the Sriracha to suit your heat preference. You can also add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper if you like it hotter.
• Serving Options: Serve over rice, inside flatbread wraps, or alongside a fresh salad to make it a full meal.
• Sauce Use: Double the sauce and use it as a salad dressing or dip for fries and roasted veggies!

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the soak for wooden skewers: If you forget to soak them, they’ll burn fast on the grill. Always soak for at least 30 minutes.
• Overcrowding the skewers: This can lead to uneven cooking. Leave slight gaps between chicken pieces for better heat distribution.
• Grilling too hot: A very high flame might char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Medium-high heat is ideal.
• Neglecting to preheat the grill: Putting chicken on a cold surface can cause sticking and uneven searing. Always preheat fully.
• Not checking internal temp: Don’t rely on looks alone—use a meat thermometer to confirm 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
• Applying sauce too early on the grill: The mayo base can burn fast. Save the sauce for the end or serve it on the side.
• Over-marinating: Leaving chicken in acidic marinade too long (over 8 hours) can give it a mushy texture.
• Forgetting to rest the chicken: Letting skewers rest 3–5 minutes post-cooking locks in the juices.

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What to Serve With Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

These flavor-packed skewers pair beautifully with a variety of sides that can balance the spice, add freshness, or round out the meal into a hearty plate. Here are some excellent combinations:

8 Recommendations

1. Coconut Rice
   Creamy and slightly sweet, coconut rice is the perfect foil to the spicy bang bang sauce. The richness cools the palate while enhancing the overall dish.
2. Garlic Noodles
   Tender noodles tossed in a garlicky butter sauce make a savory side that complements the bang bang flavor without overpowering it.
3. Asian Slaw
   A crunchy salad of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast and keeps the plate light.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness plays beautifully with the spicy sauce, creating a sweet-heat harmony.
5. Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice
   Keep it classic. This neutral base absorbs the bang bang sauce and makes the skewers shine.
6. Lettuce Wraps
   Serve the skewers deconstructed with crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb, handheld option that’s still loaded with flavor.
7. Grilled Pineapple Slices
   Lightly charred pineapple offers a juicy, tangy bite that pairs especially well with the heat and umami of the chicken.
8. Cucumber Salad with Rice Vinegar
   A chilled cucumber salad brings brightness and crunch—perfect for cutting through the richness of the sauce.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
Place any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best results, keep the sauce separate to maintain the crisp texture of the grilled chicken.

Freezing:
You can freeze the grilled chicken (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Wrap the skewers tightly in foil or store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a hot skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Reheating Tips:
To preserve moisture, reheat skewers in the oven wrapped loosely in foil, or gently warm them in a covered skillet. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the chicken rubbery. Add fresh sauce after reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Based on a 1-skewer serving (assuming 8 skewers per recipe):

• Calories: ~210 kcal
• Protein: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Sugars: 3g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 420mg
• Fiber: 0.5g

Note: Nutrition can vary depending on the exact brands and substitutions used, especially in the sauce ingredients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. In fact, chicken thighs tend to be juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Just make sure they’re boneless and skinless for even cooking.

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2. Is the bang bang sauce very spicy?

It has a moderate kick thanks to the Sriracha, but it’s balanced by the mayo and sweet chili sauce. If you’re spice-sensitive, start with half the Sriracha and adjust to taste.

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3. Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?

Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through. For extra char, finish with a quick broil at the end.

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4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. You can marinate the chicken overnight, prepare the sauce in advance, and even assemble the skewers ahead—just store them separately until cooking time.

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5. What can I use if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?

Mix a combo of honey, a dash of rice vinegar, and a bit of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to mimic sweet chili flavor.

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6. Can I use a different protein?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp, tofu, or even paneer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks faster, while tofu might need extra searing for texture.

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7. Is the sauce safe for kids?

If you dial back the Sriracha or omit it, the sauce becomes mild and kid-friendly while still deliciously creamy and sweet.

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8. How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Preheat your grill thoroughly and lightly oil the grates. Also, avoid flipping the chicken too early; it naturally releases once a proper sear forms.

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Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss—a dreamy balance of spicy, sweet, and creamy wrapped around juicy, char-grilled bites. Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout or prepping a weeknight dinner, these skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Customize the heat, switch up the protein, and serve with your favorite sides for a meal that’s as flexible as it is unforgettable.

Ready to fire up the grill and drizzle on the magic? Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are calling your name.

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