Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy pieces of chicken are grilled on skewers and tossed in a creamy, slightly spicy sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
These skewers are great for parties or family meals. I love serving them with fresh veggies on the side for a little crunch. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy eating with their hands? Yum! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: For this recipe, chicken breast works best as it is lean and cooks quickly. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier bite or even tofu chunks for a vegetarian option.
Plain Yogurt: The yogurt adds creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken. Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you’re looking for a thicker consistency. Dairy-free options like coconut yogurt also work well.
Sriracha: This gives a spicy kick! If you prefer it milder, use sweet chili sauce. You can also adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but if you need a vegan option, agave syrup or maple syrup can be good substitutes. Just keep in mind that these may alter the flavor slightly.
Fresh Cilantro: Cilantro adds a fresh finish to the skewers. If you’re not a fan, consider using green onions or parsley as a garnish instead.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Tender and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor and tenderness. A good marinade not only seasons the chicken but also keeps it juicy when grilled. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly before adding the chicken. Ensure every piece is well-coated.
- Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes in the fridge—longer is better for deeper flavor.
- Dress the skewers lightly so the heat can circulate around the chicken pieces, promoting even cooking.
These simple steps will help you enjoy tender, flavorful chicken skewers every time!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (or adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus a marinating time of at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor). Once marinated, grilling will take around 10-12 minutes. In total, plan for about 50 minutes to 2 hours depending on your marination preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by mixing the yogurt, soy sauce, honey, sriracha, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika in a mixing bowl. Add the chicken pieces and stir carefully to coat them well with the marinade. Once coated, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will give you even more flavor!
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you have metal skewers, you can use them straight away. After soaking, remove the wooden skewers and set them aside.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This temperature will give your skewers a nice char without overcooking the chicken.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
It’s time to put it all together! Take the marinated chicken pieces out of the fridge and thread them onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece. This will help them cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Carefully place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Look for the chicken to be fully cooked and have those enticing grill marks.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they are cooked through, transfer the skewers to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. For extra zing, serve with additional sriracha or a creamy dipping sauce made from mixing mayonnaise and sriracha together. Enjoy your tasty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and stay juicy, making them a great substitute for chicken breasts. Just ensure they are cut into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Plain Yogurt?
No problem! You can substitute plain yogurt with Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency or even sour cream for a slightly different flavor. Just adjust the quantity to maintain the marinade’s creamy texture.
How Can I Make These Skewers Spicier?
If you like it hot, you can increase the amount of sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. For extra depth, consider adding chopped fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes before grilling!
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the skewers on a grill or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through, about 10 minutes. Enjoy them hot for the best flavor!
