Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: Best 20-Minute Dinner Fix

Why Are More Home Cooks Switching to Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Looking to break free from boring weekday dinners? According to Google Trends, searches for “quick spicy chicken recipes” have jumped over 40% in the past year. That’s where Bang Bang Chicken Skewers come in. With their irresistible sweet heat, lightning-fast prep, and crowd-pleasing appeal, these skewers have become a top pick for busy home chefs. The creamy, spicy sauce paired with juicy grilled chicken delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients List

Let’s build flavor from the ground up. Here’s everything you need to create these unforgettable Bang Bang Chicken Skewers:

For the chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Use either metal skewers or bamboo ones just be sure to soak bamboo in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

For the Bang Bang sauce:

• Combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, or opt for Greek yogurt if you prefer a healthier alternative.
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice (adds zing)

Optional toppings:

• Chopped green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro leaves

Substitutions:

• For a meatless twist, replace the chicken with firm tofu cubes.
• Use hot sauce instead of Sriracha if needed.
• Try low-fat mayo or dairy-free alternatives for special diets.

Timing

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M

That’s 20 minutes total a full 35% faster than most marinated grilled chicken recipes, which average around 30–35 minutes. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or last-minute get-togethers.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry with a paper towel, then toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let rest while you prep the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

Stir together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and vinegar in a bowl until you get a silky, blended sauce. Adjust spice to your liking.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 4: Grill or Sear

Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high. Grill each skewer for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until nicely browned and the chicken reaches 165°F inside.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Brush or drizzle with Bang Bang sauce right before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or cilantro.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Sugar: 5g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sodium: 450mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Want to lighten things up? Try these simple swaps:

• Greek yogurt instead of mayo: adds protein and cuts fat
• Air fryer instead of pan-frying: reduces oil use
• Honey substitute: Use monk fruit syrup for low-sugar diets
• Add veggies: Skewer bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions for fiber and flavor
• Serve over salad: A bed of greens adds nutrients and crunch

Serving Suggestions

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are ultra-versatile. Try these serving ideas:

• Over jasmine rice or coconut rice
• Wrapped in warm pita with shredded cabbage
• Alongside garlic noodles or Asian slaw
• Topped with extra sauce and served as party bites
• Serve alongside a chilled cucumber salad for a crisp, cooling complement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the pan: Leads to steaming instead of searing.
2. Skipping the rest time: Chicken needs a few minutes after seasoning to absorb flavors.
3. Overcooking: Use a thermometer to hit 165°F don’t guess!
4. Adding sauce too early: Apply the sauce after cooking to avoid burning.
5. Not soaking bamboo skewers: They’ll catch fire on the grill!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• You can freeze the cooked skewers without sauce for up to two months just thaw before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or in the air fryer for 5–6 minutes.
• Make-ahead tip: Mix sauce and season chicken up to 24 hours in advance.

Conclusion

With bold flavors and easy prep, these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the ultimate dinner fix when time is short. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying, spicy-sweet meal that feels anything but rushed.

Try this recipe today, leave a comment with your twist, and don’t forget to subscribe for more tasty updates!

FAQs

Is it possible to prep Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in advance?
Yes! You can prep the sauce and marinate the chicken 24 hours in advance.

Is Bang Bang sauce spicy?
It has a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat by using more or less Sriracha.

Can I cook these in the oven?
Absolutely. Bake at 425°F for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway.

What goes well with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Try pairing them with rice, slaw, or a creamy dipping sauce for balance.

How do I keep chicken skewers juicy?
Avoid overcooking and don’t skip the oil in the marinade it locks in moisture.