– **Title**: Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes)
– **Instructions**:
1. In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, minced ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving space between each piece.
5. Grill the skewers for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
7. Serve with a drizzle of extra sauce, if desired, and garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe calls for chicken breast, which is lean and cooks quickly. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great substitution, providing more flavor. Just keep in mind that they may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise gives the sauce creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt works well too; it adds a nice tang and is healthier. I’ve tried it both ways and love the yogurt version.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce adds sweetness and a mild heat. If you can’t find it, a mix of honey and a little hot sauce can mimic the flavors. You can also use barbecue sauce for a different twist!
Sriracha: Adjust this based on your heat tolerance. If you find Sriracha too spicy, consider using a milder hot sauce or even omit it. On occasion, I use a few dashes of smoked paprika for a nice smokiness instead.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is fantastic for topping, but if you’re not a fan, green onions or parsley offer a nice touch too. I prefer parsley for a different taste profile.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
To keep your chicken juicy, marinating it is essential. This not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine all marinade ingredients, ensuring everything is well mixed.
- Coat the chicken pieces thoroughly in the marinade, ensuring every piece is covered.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, aim for 1-2 hours in the fridge – this really enhances the flavor.
- When grilling, monitor the heat. Medium-high is perfect for cooking through without drying out.
- Avoid pressing down on the chicken while grilling; this helps retain all those flavorful juices.
Letting the skewers rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even juicier! Enjoy your skewers fresh off the grill!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade and Dipping Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. You’ll then need around 12 minutes to grill it. In total, set aside about 1 hour for the entire process, including prep and cooking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help prevent them from burning on the grill!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk everything until it becomes smooth and well combined. This will be both your marinade and dipping sauce!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Reserve about 1/4 cup of the sauce for later use. Cover it and refrigerate it. Now, take the remaining marinade in the bowl and add the chicken pieces. Mix it all together until the chicken is completely coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for 1-2 hours!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush a little vegetable oil on the grates to keep the chicken from sticking. Take the marinated chicken pieces and thread them onto the soaked skewers.
5. Cooking the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and no longer pink inside.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken skewers are cooked, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot, drizzled with the reserved Bang Bang sauce and sprinkled with fresh chopped cilantro. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and moisture to your skewers. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces as well, and check for doneness by ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Sweet Chili Sauce?
No problem! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of honey and hot sauce to create a sweet and spicy flavor. Alternatively, you can blend a little ketchup with some sugar and a splash of vinegar for a similar taste.
Can I Grill These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes! If you can’t grill outside, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is fully cooked.
How Should I Store Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Remember to drizzle a bit of extra marinade over them if they seem dry!
