Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful appetizer or main course that’s perfect for barbecues, parties, or a quick weeknight dinner. The addictive “bang bang” sauce, a creamy, sweet, spicy, and tangy concoction, elevates simple grilled chicken to a whole new level. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and yielding maximum flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion with every bite!
Recipe: A brief description of the recipe
This recipe details the creation of delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Tender, marinated chicken pieces are threaded onto skewers, grilled to perfection, and then tossed in a homemade Bang Bang sauce. The sauce is a delightful blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sour cream, honey, and hot sauce, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors. This recipe provides a comprehensive guide to creating both the flavorful chicken and the signature sauce, resulting in a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both easy and impressive.
Ingredients: A detailed list of ingredients
For the Chicken:
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
¾ cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for best texture)
½ cup sweet chili sauce (brands vary in sweetness; adjust to your preference)
¼ cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot is recommended, but you can adjust to your spice preference)
Optional Garnishes:
Chopped green onions
Sesame seeds
Extra sweet chili sauce for drizzling
Directions/Instructions: Step-by-step instructions for preparation
1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, ginger, and black pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours to allow the chicken to fully absorb the marinade. Longer marinating times result in more flavorful chicken.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the prepared skewers, leaving a small space between each piece for even cooking. Aim for 4-5 pieces of chicken per skewer, depending on the size of your chicken cubes and skewers.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use tongs to gently turn the skewers to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken is grilling, prepare the bang bang sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sour cream, honey, and hot sauce until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – add more honey for extra sweetness, or more hot sauce for extra heat.
5. Toss and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Transfer the chicken skewers to a large bowl and pour the bang bang sauce over them. Gently toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy! You can also drizzle extra sweet chili sauce on top for an extra kick.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the recipe
Q: Can I use different types of meat?
A: While chicken is traditionally used, you can experiment with other meats like shrimp, pork, or beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly, ensuring the meat is cooked thoroughly.
Q: Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling them?
A: Yes, you can bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, the bang bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What if I don’t have all the spices?
A: Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preferences and what you have available. Garlic powder and onion powder can be omitted or substituted with fresh garlic and onion.
Conclusion
These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The recipe is straightforward, allowing even beginner cooks to achieve delicious results. The vibrant colors and irresistible aroma make these skewers perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill (or preheat your oven), and prepare to be amazed by the explosion of flavors in every bite. Don’t hesitate – try this recipe today and share the deliciousness with your friends and family!