There’s a secret thrill in biting into perfectly grilled chicken skewers that are crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside—and these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers deliver exactly that. Juicy cubes of chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and a kick of sriracha combine to create a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. As the skewers sizzle on a hot grill or grill pan, those edges get irresistibly charred, locking in moisture and adding a smoky dimension to each bite. Once off the heat, a silky, creamy bang bang sauce—whisked together from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and fresh lime juice—crowns the skewers with tangy, sweet, and spicy goodness. Sprinkle on chopped green onions and sesame seeds, and suddenly this appetizer transforms into a vibrant centerpiece worthy of any gathering.
This recipe isn’t just about pulling off a crowd-pleaser; it’s about embracing a simple, beginner-friendly dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. With just one hour of marinating, fifteen minutes on the grill, and a short five-minute resting period, you’ll have an appetizer or dinner that clocks in at about 350 calories per serving. Whether you’re exploring Asian cuisine for the first time or you’re an experienced home cook looking for an easy recipe that packs a punch, these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers fit the bill. Perfect for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or casual get-togethers, they’re guaranteed to spice up your gatherings with juicy, tangy, and oh-so-delicious bites.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BANG BANG CHICKEN SKEWERS
Let’s break down the star players that make these skewers shine. Each ingredient brings its own magic, building layers of flavor and ensuring that every bite feels like a little celebration of tastes and textures.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Lean and tender, these cubes soak up the marinade beautifully, delivering juicy bites without extra fat or skin.
- Soy sauce
Rich in umami, it forms the savory backbone of the marinade and balances the sweeter elements.
- Honey
Adds natural sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken on the grill for gorgeous, golden edges.
- Vegetable oil
Keeps the chicken moist and prevents sticking, ensuring a smooth grilling experience.
- Rice vinegar
Provides a subtle tang that brightens the marinade and cuts through the richness.
- Sriracha
Offers a gentle heat and depth of flavor—you control the spice level, so feel free to adjust!
- Garlic
Pungent and aromatic, minced garlic infuses each cube with a savory kick.
- Fresh ginger
Grated for a warm, zesty nuance that complements both sweet and spicy notes.
- Sesame oil
A small drizzle brings a toasty, nutty aroma that elevates the entire dish.
- Mayonnaise
Forms the creamy foundation of the bang bang sauce, lending a silky smooth texture.
- Sweet chili sauce
Balances sweet and spicy flavors in the sauce, adding a glossy, mouthwatering sheen.
- Lime juice
Bright and citrusy, it cuts through richness and lifts the sauce to the next level.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasoning essentials that enhance and unify all flavors.
- Bamboo skewers
When soaked in water, they resist burning and make for a fun, handheld presentation.
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds
Fresh garnishes that add color, crunch, and a burst of freshness.
HOW TO MAKE BANG BANG CHICKEN SKEWERS
Ready to dive into the kitchen fun? This section will guide you through transforming raw ingredients into irresistibly saucy, perfectly charred skewers. Follow each step closely and you’ll end up with succulent chicken chunks that are bursting with flavor from the grill to your plate.
1. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. This is your flavorful marinade that will infuse the chicken with sweet, spicy, and aromatic notes.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—overnight marinating yields even deeper flavor.
3. In another small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This creamy mixture is your signature bang bang sauce.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat so you get those perfect sear lines and that smoky finish.
5. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers, spacing them slightly for even cooking.
6. Grill the chicken skewers for about 5–7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and boasts beautiful char marks.
7. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices.
8. Drizzle the prepared bang bang sauce generously over the grilled chicken skewers.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving to add freshness and a light crunch.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BANG BANG CHICKEN SKEWERS
When it comes to presenting these skewers, the world is your oyster. From vibrant sides to simple garnishes, here are four creative ways to elevate your serving style and make every bite as delightful on the eyes as it is on the palate.
- Serve alongside a crisp, Asian-inspired cucumber salad tossed with rice vinegar, a touch of sesame oil, and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a cool contrast. The freshness of the cucumber and zing of the dressing play beautifully against the warm, saucy chicken skewers.
- Pair with steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice for a comforting bowl meal. Arrange the skewers on top, drizzle extra bang bang sauce around the edges, and garnish with fresh cilantro to create a wholesome dinner.
- Arrange the skewers on a party platter with colorful vegetable crudités—think bell pepper strips, carrot sticks, and snap peas—and provide small ramekins of extra bang bang sauce for dipping. It’s an interactive appetizer that invites guests to snack and mingle.
- Complement with a light, effervescent beverage like iced green tea, sparkling water with lime, or a cold beer. The bubbles and acidity will cut through the richness of the sauce and refresh the palate between bites.
HOW TO STORE BANG BANG CHICKEN SKEWERS
Leftovers deserve to taste just as good as the first serving, and with a few simple storage tricks, you can extend the life of these skewers without sacrificing flavor or texture. Proper handling ensures they stay juicy, saucy, and ready for a quick reheat whenever hunger strikes.
- Refrigeration: Once cooled to room temperature, transfer the skewers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping the bang bang sauce in a separate small container prevents the chicken from becoming soggy.
- Freezing: Lay the skewers flat on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then wrap each skewer individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Sauce Storage: Store any leftover bang bang sauce in a sealed jar or container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it perfect for drizzling on salads, veggies, or even sandwiches.
- Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, pop them back on the grill or a hot grill pan for a couple of minutes per side to revive those charred edges.
CONCLUSION
This flavorful journey through Bang Bang Chicken Skewers has showcased how simple ingredients—like juicy chicken cubes, a tangy-sweet marinade, and a creamy, spicy sauce—can come together to create an appetizer or main dish that’s truly unforgettable. From soaking bamboo skewers to perfecting those char marks on a hot grill, each step is designed to build layers of flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving these skewers as part of an Asian-inspired dinner or as the star appetizer at your next gathering, you can feel confident knowing that this beginner-friendly recipe requires minimal prep and yields maximum smiles. Don’t forget: just one hour of marinating, 15 minutes of grilling, and 5 minutes of resting, and you’re well on your way to a 350-calorie treat that’s juicy, tangy, and oh-so-delicious.
Feel free to print this article and save it for your recipe collection—refer back anytime you need a fail-safe crowd-pleaser. Below, you’ll find a helpful FAQ section to answer common questions about technique, substitutions, and more. If you try this recipe, please let me know how it turned out! I’d love to hear your thoughts, answer any questions you might have, or help troubleshoot any hiccups you encounter along the way. Happy grilling, and here’s to many mouthwatering meals ahead!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Description
Succulent chicken cubes marinated in a zesty blend of soy sauce and sriracha, grilled to perfection and drizzled with a creamy bang bang sauce. These skewers are a flavor explosion!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, vegetable oil, rice vinegar, sriracha, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. This will be your marinade.
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Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
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In another small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is your bang bang sauce.
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Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
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Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked bamboo skewers.
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Grill the chicken skewers for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks.
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Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
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Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the grilled chicken skewers.
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Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Note
- Soaking the skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha to modify the spiciness to your preference.
- For additional flavor, you can also incorporate chopped cilantro into the garnish.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or rice for a complete meal.
- The bang bang sauce can also be used as a dipping sauce for added flavor.
