Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang bang skewers is a grilled dish made with tender chunks of chicken marinated in a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce. This recipe takes approximately 23 minutes (15 minutes prep + 8 minutes cook time) and yields 4 servings. The grilled chicken skewers feature a delightful balance of spicy chili garlic sauce, balanced by honey and lime juice.

Creating these skewers reminds me of hosting summer BBQs with friends, where I’d test out flavorful marinades to wow everyone with memorable dishes. This one never disappoints.

Table of Contents

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are loved for their bold, tangy flavor and versatility as an appetizer or main dish. The marinated chicken absorbs the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, offering tender bites packed with flavor.

  • The combination of chili garlic sauce, honey, and lime juice creates a multidimensional taste—spicy, sweet, and slightly tart.
  • Grilling the chicken enhances the smoky profile while ensuring a lightly charred crust.
  • These skewers are easy to prepare, making them perfect for weekday meals or entertaining guests.
  • The reserved dipping sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence, satisfying any craving for bold flavors.

What ingredients do you need for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

To make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you’ll need just a handful of flavorful ingredients for the marinade and grilling. Here’s everything required:

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 8-10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Vegetable oil for grilling

The chili garlic sauce is the star ingredient, delivering the dish’s signature kick. Pairing it with honey and lime juice ensures a balanced sauce that caramelizes beautifully when grilled.

How do you make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers step by step?

The process of making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers involves marinating, skewering, and grilling the chicken to perfection. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1 — Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a large bowl, combine chili garlic sauce, mayonnaise, honey, lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth to create the Bang Bang sauce.

Step 2 — Reserve Some Sauce

Reserve half of the sauce in a small bowl for dipping later. Set this aside.

Step 3 — Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken cubes to the remaining sauce in the large bowl. Toss to coat evenly, then cover and refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).

Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Skewers served on a wooden platter with fresh herbs.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers 4

Step 4 — Prepare the Grill

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grates or pan with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5 — Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, taking care not to overcrowd them.

Step 6 — Grill the Skewers

Grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly charred. Rotate the skewers as needed for even cooking.

Step 7 — Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. Serve them with the reserved sauce for dipping. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?

Yes, metal skewers work perfectly and don’t require soaking. They also conduct heat, which helps the chicken cook evenly.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor. Ensure it’s stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I know when the chicken is properly cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Can these skewers be cooked in the oven?

Although grilling is preferred, you can bake the skewers in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway.

How do you store and reheat Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side to revive their flavor.

For freezing, wrap the cooked skewers tightly in parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.

What goes well with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pair wonderfully with bold and complementary sides:

  • Steamed jasmine rice absorbs the tangy sauce.
  • Grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add a smoky touch.
  • Fresh coleslaw offers a crunchy, creamy contrast to the skewers.
  • Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Expert Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Here are a few tips to elevate your recipe:

  • Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  • Marinate longer (up to 2 hours) for more intense flavor absorption.
  • Preheat the grill and oil it well to avoid sticking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

  • Overcooking the chicken: Use a timer and thermometer for accuracy.
  • Skipping the skewer soak: Dry skewers can burn quickly on the grill.
  • Forgetting to reserve sauce: Always keep some aside for dipping.

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Delicious grilled chicken skewers coated in a tangy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • grill or grill pan
  • wooden skewers
  • brush for oiling
  • knife

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine chili garlic sauce, mayonnaise, honey, lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth to create the Bang Bang sauce.
  2. Reserve half of the sauce in a small bowl for dipping later. Set aside.
  3. Add the chicken cubes to the remaining sauce in the large bowl. Toss to coat evenly, then cover and refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
  4. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grates or pan with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, taking care not to overcrowd them.
  6. Grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly charred. Rotate the skewers as needed for even cooking.
  7. Remove the skewers from the grill and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with the reserved sauce for dipping. Enjoy!

Notes

For extra flavor, you can garnish the skewers with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving.
Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Skewers served on a wooden platter with fresh herbs.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers 5

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