Are you ready to fire up your grill with a tasty treat? Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and flavorful dish that's easy to make. With juicy chicken, zesty spices, and a creamy sauce, you'll impress your friends and family in no time. In this post, I’ll guide you through the simple steps to create this delightful meal. Let’s get started on a dish that packs a punch!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, onion powder, and spices creates a flavorful chicken that is sure to impress your taste buds.
- Customizable Spice Level: The Bang Bang sauce allows you to adjust the heat to your liking, catering to both spice lovers and those who prefer milder flavors.
- Fun to Eat: Skewers make for a fun and interactive dining experience, perfect for parties or family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasoning Components
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
For Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Start with chicken breast. I prefer cutting it into 1-inch cubes. This size cooks evenly on the grill. Next, use cornstarch. It helps the chicken get crispy. Add olive oil to keep everything moist and flavorful.
For seasoning, garlic powder adds a nice bite. Onion powder brings depth to the taste. Paprika gives a hint of smokiness. Don't forget salt and pepper. These enhance all the flavors.
The star of this dish is the Bang Bang sauce. Mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. This sauce is creamy and spicy. Adjust the Sriracha to your heat preference. You can make it milder or hotter, depending on your taste.
Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to create a tasty grilled delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Chicken
- First, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 pound of cubed chicken.
- Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. This helps the chicken crisp up.
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of olive oil for moisture and flavor.
- Add 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder. These give great taste.
- Toss in 1/2 teaspoon of paprika for a nice color and smoky flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Toss everything well to coat the chicken evenly.
Grilling Process
- Now, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This is key for even cooking.
- Thread the chicken cubes onto soaked skewers. Leave some space for heat to circulate.
- Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes. Turn them often to get those beautiful grill marks.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce.
- Add 1 tablespoon of Sriracha for spice. Adjust it if you like more heat.
- Mix well to combine all the flavors. Your sauce should be creamy and tangy.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Cooked Chicken
To cook your chicken just right, follow these tips:
- Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes.
- Turn them occasionally for even cooking.
- The chicken should reach 165°F for safety.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
This ensures your chicken is juicy and safe to eat. If you see nice grill marks, that’s a good sign, too.
Enhancing Flavor
To boost the taste of your Bang Bang chicken, try these ideas:
- Add more garlic powder or onion powder for a punch.
- Use fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a fresh twist.
- If you like citrus, a splash of lime juice can brighten the dish.
You can also marinate the chicken for a few hours in your favorite sauce or spices. This extra step helps the flavors soak in and makes each bite more exciting.
Presentation Ideas
Serving your skewers well makes them even more appealing:
- Place the skewers on a large platter for a fun display.
- Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce on top or serve it on the side.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for color.
These small touches make your meal look more gourmet. Your guests will be impressed!
Pro Tips
- Marinate for More Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat better.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Ensure there's space between the chicken pieces on the skewers. This promotes even cooking and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Check Doneness with a Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness and heat of the Bang Bang sauce to your liking by adding more or less sweet chili sauce and Sriracha.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp gives a nice seafood twist. Just marinate for a shorter time. Tofu is great for a vegetarian option. Press it to remove water. Then, cut it into cubes and marinate. If you prefer beef or pork, use cubed cuts. They grill up nicely and add a different taste.
Flavor Variations
You can make your Bang Bang chicken sweet or spicy. For sweet, add more sweet chili sauce. For spicy, boost the Sriracha amount. You can also add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. Citrus zest, like lime or lemon, brightens the dish too. Experiment with flavors to find your favorite mix.
Side Dishes
Pair these skewers with rice or a fresh salad. A side of grilled veggies adds color and nutrition. You can also serve them with a light dip or sauce. For a complete meal, add a fruit salad for dessert. This balance makes your meal fun and tasty.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your Bang Bang chicken skewers, you may have some leftovers. To keep them fresh, place the skewers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the skewers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will stay good for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
When you're ready to eat the leftovers, reheating is key. You can use an oven or a microwave. If you use an oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This method helps keep the chicken juicy and warm. If you use the microwave, heat them on a plate for about 1-2 minutes. Check frequently to avoid drying them out. Enjoy the flavors just like the first time!
FAQs
How long to marinate chicken for Bang Bang Skewers?
For Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, I suggest marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This time helps the flavors soak in well. If you have more time, marinating for up to a few hours is even better. You can keep it in the fridge during this time.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it completely first. The best way to thaw chicken is overnight in the fridge. If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cutting. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
What can I substitute for Sriracha?
If you don't have Sriracha, there are many great alternatives. You can use any hot sauce you like. Try sambal oelek for a similar taste. Other options include chili garlic sauce or even a spicy BBQ sauce. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you want your sauce.
In this article, we covered how to make delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. We explored the main ingredients, like chicken breast, cornstarch, and olive oil. I shared steps for prepping, grilling, and making a tasty bang bang sauce. You can add your own twist with different proteins and flavors. Remember to store leftovers properly to keep them fresh. With these tips, you'll create a dish that delights everyone at the table. Enjoy the cooking process and savor each bite!
