If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and perfect for sharing, the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Mayo and Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe will become your new go-to. Picture tender, juicy chicken cubes grilled to perfection on skewers, brought to life by a marinade that’s tangy and savory, then paired with a creamy spicy mayo and a sticky sweet chili sauce that dances on your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or craving a flavorful weeknight dinner, this recipe brings together simplicity and excitement in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet punchy ingredients is the secret to nailing this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Mayo and Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe. Each element plays its part in creating layers of taste and texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, cut into perfect bite-sized cubes for quick grilling and easy eating.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a deep umami flavor that gives the chicken that irresistible savory note.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brings a bright, tangy acid to balance the richness of the mayo.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Ensures the chicken gets a nice coating and a slightly crispy exterior when cooked.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger: Fresh zing that wakes up your palate with a slight spice and warmth.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Essential for that classic aromatic undertone.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Simple seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the spicy mayo that cools the heat and adds luscious texture.
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce: Sweet, sticky, and slightly spicy, this sauce makes the dish irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (or more to taste): Brings heat with a touch of garlicky punch.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for sauce): Adds brightness to the sauce’s flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (for sauce): Deepens the sauce’s umami factor.
- 1 teaspoon honey: Balances out the heat with a hint of natural sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the garlic flavor in the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra kick if you love it spicy.
- Bamboo skewers, soaked: Prevents burning and makes handling the chicken a breeze.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for grilling): Keeps the chicken juicy and helps prevent sticking.
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish: Adds freshness and a satisfying crunch for the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Mayo and Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by combining the chicken cubes with soy sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. This marinade not only infuses the meat with amazing flavors but also tenderizes it. Mix everything well so each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Let the Flavors Develop
Cover the bowl tightly and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have extra time. This resting period lets the flavors really soak into the chicken, making each bite irresistible.
Step 3: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken marinates, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes in a separate bowl. This zesty sauce is the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy, ready to take your skewers to the next level. Cover and chill until ready to serve.
Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
Remove the bamboo skewers from their soak and carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto them, leaving a little space between each chunk for even cooking. This step is fun and helps ensure every piece grills beautifully.
Step 5: Get Your Grill Ready
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and don’t forget to oil the grates to prevent sticking. This step is key to getting those perfect grill marks and caramelization on the chicken.
Step 6: Grill the Chicken Skewers
Brush the skewers lightly with vegetable oil, then place them on the hot grill. Turn occasionally and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through with a nice char. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
Step 7: Serve with the Sauce and Garnish
Bring your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Mayo and Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe to the table by serving the hot skewers alongside the chilled bang bang sauce. Sprinkle on chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that extra pop of color and texture that will have everyone swooning.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Mayo and Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions and sesame seeds are classic garnishes that add freshness and a lovely crunch to your skewers. The bright green color makes the dish pop on the plate, while sesame seeds lend a subtle nuttiness that perfectly complements the bold flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair these skewers with simple sides like a crisp Asian slaw, steamed jasmine rice, or even some grilled vegetables. The light and refreshing sides balance out the richness of the sauce and grilled chicken, creating a harmonious meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party idea, serve the skewers on a large platter with small bowls of spicy mayo and sweet chili sauce for dipping. You can also place them atop a bed of shredded lettuce or rice noodles for a stunning presentation that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Mayo and Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe, store the cooked skewers and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll keep fresh for up to 3 days, making for a fantastic quick lunch or snack.
Freezing
While the skewers are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze raw marinated chicken cubes (without skewering) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw thoroughly before threading onto skewers and grilling to maintain tenderness and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat cooked skewers, gently warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if you can, to keep the texture nice and prevent the chicken from drying out. Warm the sauce separately if needed.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just adjust the grilling time accordingly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can swap the chicken for firm tofu or large mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Marinate and grill them the same way, then serve with the bang bang sauce for a plant-based twist.
How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
The sauce has a balanced kick from sriracha and optional red pepper flakes, but it’s not overwhelming. You can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha and skipping the red pepper flakes if you prefer mild flavors.
Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
Definitely! Bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through. Broil briefly at the end to get a nice charred effect.
What can I use instead of bamboo skewers?
If you don’t have bamboo skewers, metal skewers work great and are reusable. Just be mindful that metal heats up faster, so handle with care when grilling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something genuinely special about the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Mayo and Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe that makes it a crowd-pleaser every single time. With its bold tastes, easy prep, and impressive presentation, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe whenever you crave a dish that’s packed with flavor without the fuss. Give it a try and watch your friends and family fall in love with each perfectly grilled bite!
