Introduction to Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! If you’re on the hunt for a quick and delightful dish that’ll bring smiles to your family’s faces, let me introduce you to Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. These little beauties are not just tasty; they’re a perfect solution for those busy weekdays when you need something quick yet impressive. Imagine juicy, marinated chicken, bursting with flavor and drizzled in a creamy, spicy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that you can whip up without breaking a sweat! Trust me, these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are bound to become a dinnertime favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Let me share why Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will steal your heart. First off, they’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for moms juggling a million tasks. With just a few ingredients and a quick look at the instructions, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in under 30 minutes! Not to mention, the enticing blend of flavors will have everyone begging for seconds, turning dinner into an enjoyable family affair.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to barbecue bliss with your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Wooden skewers: These are perfect for threading your chicken. Soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning while cooking.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the spices adhere to the chicken. Plus, it’s a heart-healthy fat!
- Paprika: This smokey delight brings depth and slight sweetness, enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
- Garlic powder: Who can resist the warm, inviting aroma of garlic? It’s a must for flavor!
- Kosher salt: Essential for bringing out all the delicious flavors of the other ingredients; don’t skimp on this!
- Black pepper: For a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the sweetness in the sauce.
- Mayonnaise: Believe it or not, this creamy base forms the foundation of the bang bang sauce, adding richness.
- Thai sweet chili sauce: This sauce delivers a perfect balance of sweetness with just the right kick!
- Sriracha: Add as much as you like to dial up the spice! It’s the zing in this bang bang concoction.
- Honey: A touch of sweetness that ties everything together in the dipping sauce.
For exact quantities and a handy printer-friendly version of this recipe, scroll down to the end of the article!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into creating your fabulous Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Follow these simple and practical steps, and you’ll be well on your way to serving up a dish that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
Start by taking a large bowl. Toss in your chicken cubes, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. This is where the magic begins! Use your hands (don’t shy away from getting a little messy) to ensure each piece of chicken is well-coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to mingle beautifully!
Step 2: Assemble the Skewers
Grab those soaked wooden skewers and thread 4 to 5 chicken cubes onto each skewer. Try to keep them evenly spaced to ensure they cook uniformly. Don’t be afraid to alternate with some colorful veggies like bell peppers or onions for added flavor and color! This is not just cooking; it’s crafting a masterpiece!
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. The combination of these ingredients creates a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that’s downright irresistible. It’s the star of your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, so taste it and adjust the Sriracha according to your spice tolerance. Enjoy while you mix!
Step 4: Cook the Skewers
Now, it’s cooking time! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the skewers in the basket in a single layer. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to work in batches. Cook for 11 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. To check if they’re done, use a meat thermometer. The magical number is 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken. You can practically hear it calling your name!
Step 5: Serve with Sauce
Once your skewers are cooked to perfection, transfer them onto a plate. Drizzle or brush them with the reserved Bang Bang sauce you set aside earlier. Trust me; this is the finishing touch that elevates the dish from good to absolutely amazing! Serve them hot, and watch as everyone digs in!
Tips for Success
- Always soak your wooden skewers to prevent burning while cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; it’s better to cook in batches for even results.
- Double-check the chicken’s internal temperature for safety; use a meat thermometer.
- If grilling, preheat your grill for those lovely char marks!
- Feel free to customize by adding veggies to the skewers for extra flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer: The best tool for making crispy, delicious skewers without excess oil.
- Wooden skewers: Soak them for 30 minutes; alternative: use metal skewers for durability.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining your chicken marinade and sauce.
- Meat thermometer: A must-have to ensure chicken is cooked safely.
Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
- Veggie Skewers: Swap the chicken for a medley of veggies like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Salmon Skewers: Try cubed salmon instead of chicken for a rich and flaky twist that pairs beautifully with the bang bang sauce.
- Pork or Beef: Use cubed pork tenderloin or beef for a heartier version of these tasty skewers that everyone will love.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your sauces and condiments are gluten-free, and substitute any soy sauce with tamari for an allergen-friendly dish.
- Spicy Herbal Skewers: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade and sauce for an aromatic kick that brightens up each bite.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Salad: Pair skewers with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors beautifully while balancing the spice.
- Garnish: Add sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Wrap It Up: Try serving the skewers in warmed tortillas for a fun, handheld meal!
FAQs about Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Got questions about making these tempting Bang Bang Chicken Skewers? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that pop up when preparing this delightful dish:
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating. This helps the flavors seep into the chicken cubes.
What if I don’t have an air fryer? No worries! You can easily grill your skewers on a barbecue instead. Just preheat your grill and cook them until they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make the Bang Bang sauce in advance? Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you can enjoy it anytime.
How spicy are these skewers? The spiciness level is adjustable! Start with a little Sriracha and increase it to your liking. The combination of Thai sweet chili sauce and mayonnaise helps balance the heat!
What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover skewers in the fridge in an airtight container. They can be reheated in the air fryer to crisp them up again or enjoyed cold in a salad!
Final Thoughts
Whipping up a batch of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is more than just cooking; it’s a joyful culinary experience! The blend of flavors dances on your palate, while the vibrant presentation makes dinner feel special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun weekend gathering, these skewers bring everyone together around the table. Plus, the satisfaction of serving something homemade is unbeatable! So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the warmth of shared meals with your loved ones. Trust me, this delightful dish will not just satisfy hunger but also create lasting memories!
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Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious, spicy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers that are perfect for grilling or air frying.
Ingredients
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ¼ cups (290 g) mayonnaise
- ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha, or more to taste
- 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts, oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to evenly coat the chicken.
- Working one skewer at a time, thread 4-5 chicken cubes onto each.
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Mix well. This will make about 1 ¾ cups bang bang sauce.
- Pour half of the sauce into a separate bowl and set aside to use after the chicken has been cooked. Use the rest of the sauce to brush evenly over the chicken.
- Add the skewers to the basket of your air fryer in a single layer. (Depending on the size of the air fryer, you may have to work in batches.)
- Air fry at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Transfer the skewers to a plate and drizzle or brush with the reserved bang bang sauce. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Make sure to soak the wooden skewers to prevent burning during cooking.
- Adjust the amount of Sriracha for desired spiciness.
- Can be grilled on a barbecue instead of air frying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 skewers
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
