If there’s one dish that can bring together a lively kitchen filled with laughter and delicious aromas, it’s Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Growing up in Asheville, our kitchen was always the heart of our home, bustling with the chatter of my siblings and the gentle hum of my grandmother’s storytelling as she stirred her pots. Now, in Charleston, that same spirit fills my own kitchen, with Biscuit at my feet, eagerly awaiting any dropped morsel. There’s something magical about the combination of spicy, tangy, and a hint of sweetness in these skewers that reminds me of those vibrant family meals, where food was an expression of love and creativity. I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, hoping it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are not just a feast for your taste buds; they’re an experience. This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. With a prep time of just 20 minutes, these skewers are an ideal choice for a last-minute dinner or a weekend barbecue. The combination of tender chicken marinated in a zesty sauce and then grilled to perfection is simply irresistible. These skewers also bring a touch of international flair to your meals, inspired by the time I spent exploring different cuisines at food festivals and cooking classes. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, these skewers are a delightful addition to your repertoire, offering a burst of flavor that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup mayonnaise (substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 750mg
Sizzle and Spice: Irresistible Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Learn how to make delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup mayonnaise (substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken cubes, ensuring they are fully submerged, and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan works just fine on the stovetop.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture. Thread the chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the skewers for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the outside is golden and crispy.
- While the chicken is grilling, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small bowl to create the bang bang sauce.
- Once the skewers are done, brush them generously with the bang bang sauce just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
- In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken cubes, ensuring they are fully submerged, and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan works just fine on the stovetop.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture. Thread the chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the skewers for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the outside is golden and crispy.
- While the chicken is grilling, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small bowl to create the bang bang sauce.
- Once the skewers are done, brush them generously with the bang bang sauce just before serving.
Tips for Making the Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a hit, here are a few tips from my kitchen to yours. First, marinating the chicken for a longer period will enhance the flavors, making the meat juicy and tender. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will do wonders. When grilling, make sure to preheat the grill adequately; this helps in achieving that perfect crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist. Don’t rush the cooking process; patience is key. Finally, feel free to adjust the heat level of the bang bang sauce according to your preference. If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of a kick, add an extra dollop of sriracha!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. I love serving them with a fresh cucumber salad, which adds a cool, refreshing contrast to the spicy skewers. A side of jasmine rice or quinoa also complements the dish beautifully, soaking up the flavorful sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing these skewers with grilled vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini. And if you’re entertaining guests, these skewers make an excellent appetizer, offering a fun and tasty start to any gathering.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers (a rare occurrence in my home), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Reheating them on the grill is also an option, giving them a fresh-off-the-grill taste once again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery and the coating soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
The main ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
The total time to make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
Yes, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Bang Bang Chicken Skewers suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a delightful reminder of how food can bring people together, just as it did in my family home in Asheville. From the sizzling of the skewers on the grill to the vibrant flavors that dance on your palate, this dish is a celebration of culinary creativity and tradition. I hope this recipe inspires you to gather your loved ones around the table and share not just a meal, but an experience filled with laughter and warmth. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with the joy and love that food brings.
