These Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a zesty sauce and grilled to golden perfection. They’re sure to make your taste buds dance!
Serving these kabobs at a gathering is always a hit. I mean, who can resist juicy meat on a stick, right? Plus, they’re perfect for dipping! 😋
Making these kabobs is super easy—just soak the chicken, thread it onto skewers, and grill away. They’re a great option for a quick dinner or a party snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: My go-to is boneless skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor. However, if you prefer, chicken breasts work too! If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breast chunks could be a nice substitute.
Mayonnaise: This is key to keeping the chicken moist and adding creaminess. If you’re avoiding eggs or dairy, you can swap it with a vegan mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Sweet Chili Sauce: It gives that delightful sweetness. If you want less sugar, look for a low-sugar version or make your own with honey and vinegar. You can also try hoisin sauce for a different flavor kick.
Sriracha Sauce: I love the heat it provides! For those who prefer milder flavors, you can replace it with a dash of mild hot sauce or skip it altogether for no spice.
Garlic and Onion Powder: Essential for flavor! If you’re out of these, fresh minced garlic and onion can be substituted—just use about one clove of garlic and a tablespoon of finely chopped onion each.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Chicken Kabobs?
Grilling chicken kabobs can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it! First off, marinating the chicken is crucial. It not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you can.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This helps get those nice grill marks.
- When skewering the chicken, leave a little space between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill the kabobs for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. Check that the chicken is cooked through by cutting into a piece—it should be white all the way through.
For an alternative cooking method, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes. Just flip them halfway through for even browning. Enjoy your kabobs with that reserved sauce for extra flavor!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
For Assembling:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. Cooking will take another 10-15 minutes on the grill or 15-20 minutes in the oven. Overall, plan for about 1 hour to complete everything, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely combined. This will be your delicious marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take about 1/4 of the sauce mixture and set it aside in another bowl for serving later. Add your cut chicken pieces to the remaining sauce in the large bowl and toss them until they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you want even more flavor!).
3. Cook the Kabobs:
If you’re grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill or Bake the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. If you’re baking, arrange the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Final Touches:
When the chicken is cooked through, remove the kabobs from the grill or oven. Drizzle the reserved sauce over the top for extra flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to make your dish look even more inviting!
Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs hot!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, you can also use chicken tenders or even shrimp for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the size and type of meat used.
Can I Make a Dairy-Free Version?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative, such as vegan mayonnaise. This will keep your kabobs creamy without any dairy products. Just check the ingredients for any allergens if you have specific dietary restrictions!
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through, but for best results, avoid overheating to keep the chicken tender.
Can I Make These Kabobs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 hours prior to cooking. Alternatively, you can assemble the kabobs and store them in the fridge, ready to grill later. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly before serving!
