Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

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When I think of summer grilling, nothing gets me more excited than these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Juicy, perfectly charred chicken bites smothered in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that packs a serious flavor punch – this dish was made to impress. I first whipped up a batch of these on a warm evening with friends on the patio, and they disappeared before I could even sit down with my plate. That creamy sauce clings to the chicken like magic, leaving every bite rich, tangy, and slightly fiery.

What I love about this recipe is that it brings restaurant-level flavor without the hassle. The marinade takes minutes to pull together, and the bang bang sauce is just a matter of stirring a few pantry staples. Once the skewers hit the grill, they come to life with beautiful grill marks and irresistible aroma. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a backyard barbecue superstar.

Whether you serve these skewers as a fun appetizer or make them the main attraction alongside rice or a fresh salad, they never disappoint. I always keep a few extra skewers in reserve because they tend to vanish faster than any other dish on the table. The contrast of crispy-edged chicken and smooth, creamy sauce is everything you could want in a grilled recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

These skewers are the definition of crowd-pleasing. The chicken stays tender and flavorful thanks to a short marinade, while the bang bang sauce adds a creamy, tangy kick with just enough heat. The simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts, and you can easily double or triple the batch without adding much prep time. Plus, the flavors pair beautifully with everything from grilled veggies to a cold pasta salad, making it one of the most versatile dishes I make during the warmer months.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe. They stay juicy on the grill and soak up the marinade beautifully. The slight fattiness of the thighs gives you a rich, tender result that white meat just can’t match.

Greek yogurt is the base of the marinade, providing a tangy flavor and helping to tenderize the chicken. It makes the meat so soft and flavorful.

Garlic and onion powder round out the marinade with an aromatic depth that clings to every piece of chicken. They’re simple but essential.

Sriracha and honey balance each other perfectly in the bang bang sauce. The sriracha delivers that gentle heat, while honey smooths it out with sweetness.

Mayonnaise makes the sauce creamy and indulgent, creating that signature bang bang texture that’s both light and rich.

Lime juice cuts through the richness and keeps the sauce bright and fresh. It ties everything together without overpowering.

Chopped parsley is optional but adds a fresh pop of color and a mild, herby finish to the final dish.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and a dash of lime juice. Toss in the cubed chicken thighs and stir until every piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 to 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between pieces for even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and creamy. Set it aside until serving.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is charred on the outside and fully cooked through.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Once off the grill, drizzle the bang bang sauce over the hot chicken skewers or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley if you’d like an extra burst of freshness.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you prefer chicken breasts, you can definitely use them instead of thighs. Just be mindful not to overcook, as they tend to dry out quicker. For a vegetarian version, try swapping the chicken with cubes of tofu or cauliflower florets. Both grill up beautifully and carry the bang bang sauce just as well.

Don’t have sriracha on hand? Use chili garlic sauce or even a splash of hot sauce for that spicy element. You can also use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt in place of Greek yogurt if you’re adjusting for dietary needs. The bang bang sauce is flexible, too – use agave instead of honey for a vegan-friendly twist.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers shine on their own, but pairing them elevates the meal. I love serving them over a bed of jasmine rice or coconut rice to catch all that luscious sauce. You can also wrap them in warm pita with some crunchy slaw and extra sauce for a flavorful wrap.

As a side, try grilled corn on the cob, cucumber salad, or crispy roasted potatoes. A chilled glass of white wine or a tangy lemonade rounds everything out perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you have extra sauce, keep it separate in a sealed jar. To reheat, place the skewers in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery.

You can also freeze the grilled chicken without the sauce. Wrap the skewers tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven, then drizzle with fresh bang bang sauce.

FAQs

Can I bake Bang Bang Chicken Skewers instead of grilling?

Yes! You can bake them at 425°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then broil for a couple of minutes for a charred finish.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely. Marinate the chicken and even thread the skewers the night before. Store them covered in the fridge, then grill when ready.

What is Bang Bang sauce made of?

It typically combines mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. It’s creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy all in one.

How spicy are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

They have a mild-to-moderate heat thanks to the sriracha, but it’s easy to adjust. Use less sriracha for a milder kick or add chili flakes for more heat.

Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers kid-friendly?

Yes, especially if you dial back the spice. The sauce is rich and sweet enough that even picky eaters usually enjoy it.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you enjoyed these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you’ll want to try our Hawaiian BBQ Chicken for a sweet and smoky twist on grilled flavors. Or give the Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir Fry a shot for a quick and balanced weeknight option. And for a fun, game-day twist, the Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Cheesy Breadsticks are a must-try.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this flavorful recipe slip away! Pin these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers to your favorite Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime. Share it with your friends who love grilling or save it for your next cookout. If you try it and love it, I’d be thrilled if you tagged it on social media—there’s nothing better than seeing your creations come to life!

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