Description

If you’re looking to add a punch of flavor and excitement to your next backyard barbecue, then look no further than these delectable Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. This dish has its roots in Asian cuisine, drawing inspiration primarily from spicy and tangy flavors that dance on the taste buds. The combination of juicy chicken marinated in a unique blend of spices, grilled to perfection, served with a creamy and spicy Bang Bang sauce, makes it an unforgettable meal.

What makes this dish so special is not just the explosion of flavors but also the ease of preparation. Perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or a casual night in, these skewers are sure to impress your guests while being simple enough for a weeknight. With a balance of sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of heat, it’s an experience where every bite tells a story.

Gather around the grill, get ready to sizzle, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Ingredients

• For the Bang Bang Sauce:
• 3/4 cup of mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup of sweet chili sauce
• 1/4 cup of sour cream
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 2 teaspoons of hot sauce (Frank’s sauce recommended)
• For the Chicken:
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 pounds) cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of dry mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• Optional Additions:
• For a bit of zest, consider adding the juice of one lime to the Bang Bang sauce or sprinkle fresh cilantro on top once plated for an aromatic finish. You could also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a variation that caters to different diets.

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing the skewers. If you're using wooden skewers, it’s crucial to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This little step will help prevent them from burning while they’re on the grill, ensuring that your chicken stays intact as it cooks to perfection.

Next, let’s whip up the Bang Bang sauce, which is a key player in this dish. In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sour cream, honey, and hot sauce. The sweet chili sauce provides a delightful sweetness, while the hot sauce gives it a kick. Mix these ingredients enthusiastically until they’re fully integrated and smooth. The result should be a beautifully creamy sauce that evokes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. Once mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you prepare the chicken.

Now, let’s focus on the chicken. In a sizable mixing bowl, take your cubed chicken breasts and sprinkle on the kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dry mustard powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Each of these spices adds a distinct layer of flavor, enhancing the chicken’s natural taste. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure that every piece of chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning mix. This step is essential; you want the spices to work their magic all around.

As the next phase, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Take approximately six pieces of the seasoned chicken and thread them onto each skewer. If you need a visual cue, the chicken pieces should be snug but not overly packed, allowing the heat from the grill to circulate freely around them.

Before we move to grilling, it’s important to note that you should transfer about 1/4 cup of the Bang Bang sauce into a separate bowl. This measure is a food safety precaution since the sauce used for basting will come into contact with raw chicken. Keep the remaining sauce aside for serving later.

Now, brush the separated portion of Bang Bang sauce generously over all sides of the chicken skewers. Doing this not only enhances flavor but also creates a delicious glaze as they cook. For the best results, allow the skewers to rest in the refrigerator for anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours. If you’re planning ahead, you can even cover them and keep them overnight. This resting period allows the chicken to absorb the flavors from the sauce, ensuring every bite is tender and tasty.

It’s finally time to fire up the grill! Preheat it to a luscious temperature range of 400 to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat should be just right—hot enough to get a good sear on the chicken but not so blazing that it burns the exterior before the interior is cooked through. Once your grill is ready, carefully place the skewers on it.

Cook the skewers for about 4 minutes on one side. Resist the temptation to move them too soon; letting them sit will create those lovely grill marks that not only look great but also add a smoky flavor. After the first 4 minutes, turn the skewers over to cook the other side for another 4 minutes. Keep an eye on their color, and if the chicken isn’t browned to your liking or hasn’t reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit, extend the cooking time by an additional 2 to 4 minutes. The key is to ensure that the chicken is cooked through, juicy, and safe to eat.

Once the chicken skewers are perfectly grilled, remove them from the grill and serve them immediately. The aroma that fills the air at this point is simply mouthwatering. To elevate the experience, present them alongside the reserved Bang Bang sauce for dipping. It’s a delightful combination that will leave everyone craving more.

Tips and Conclusion

For a complete meal, consider serving these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with a side of jasmine rice or a vibrant salad filled with fresh vegetables. If you're looking to spice things up a bit, consider tossing in sliced cucumbers and mangoes for a refreshing twist. You can also play around with the protein; shrimp or even vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini can be skewer-friendly options, creating a versatile dish that caters to various taste preferences.

If you're preparing for a gathering, these skewers make for a great appetizer as well! Just prepare them ahead of time, keep them chilled, and grill them fresh upon arrival of your guests to impress!
In conclusion, making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is not just about cooking; it's an enjoyable experience that brings together flavors, aromas, and textures in a delightful way. As you dive into this dish, the juicy chicken meets the creamy Bang Bang sauce creating a flavor explosion with every bite, making the effort utterly worthwhile.

Be sure to share this recipe with friends and family or explore more culinary delights on our site. Why not try pairing it with Grilled Vegetable Skewers or our Asian-inspired Cabbage Salad for a complete feast? Your kitchen is a world of flavors waiting to be discovered—so keep exploring, and happy cooking!