What makes the perfect summer dinner party appetizer? Try these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, marinated in a spicy peanut sauce and grilled to perfection for a quick and easy weeknight dinner solution. The combination of chicken breast, crunchy peanuts, and homemade sauce makes for a family favorite. Save this idea for your next outdoor gathering or pin for later to try soon.

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Introduction

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a mouth-watering, easy-to-make dish that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the creativity of international flavors. This recipe is perfect for those looking to spice up their meal routine without spending hours in the kitchen. With its balance of spicy, sweet, and sour flavors, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are sure to become a favorite, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a backyard barbecue. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of chicken, vegetables, and a tangy Bang Bang sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both exciting and approachable. The ingredients are readily available in most supermarkets, making it easy to whip up a batch at any time.
Ease of preparation: The steps involved in making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are straightforward and quick, requiring minimal cooking time and effort. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you need a fast but delicious meal.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers present beautifully, especially when served with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad. The vibrant colors and appetizing aroma are sure to impress your guests, making it a great choice for entertaining.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers include chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; a variety of colorful bell peppers and onions for added flavor and texture; and a flavorful Bang Bang sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. For practical substitutions, you can use different types of protein like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option, and swap out the bell peppers with other crunchy vegetables like zucchini or carrots. The Bang Bang sauce can also be adjusted to your desired level of spiciness by adding more or less chili sauce.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Slice the bell peppers and onions into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice to make the Bang Bang sauce.
Step 2: Cook the chicken and vegetables. Thread the chicken, bell peppers, and onions onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. Brush the skewers with a little oil and cook on a grill or in a grill pan over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Layer the flavors. Once the skewers are cooked, brush them with the Bang Bang sauce during the last minute of cooking to glaze them. You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Step 4: Final touches and plating. Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers hot, garnished with chopped cilantro, scallions, or sesame seeds for added freshness and texture. They can be enjoyed as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, paired with your favorite sides like rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.

Handy Tips

To ensure the chicken cooks evenly, try to make the pieces as uniform as possible. Also, don’t overcrowd the skewers, as this can prevent the ingredients from cooking properly. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to prevent them from burning.

Heat Control

When cooking the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, it’s essential to control the heat to achieve the perfect doneness. For grilling, medium-high heat is ideal, as it allows for a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. If cooking in a pan, make sure not to have the heat too high, as this can burn the sauce and overcook the chicken. Aim for a medium heat setting and adjust as needed. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the vegetables should be tender but still crisp.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in Bang Bang Chicken Skewers comes from the fresh vegetables and the toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts you can sprinkle on top. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure not to overcook the vegetables. They should retain some of their crispiness to provide a satisfying texture contrast to the soft chicken. If desired, you can also add some crispy fried onions or garlic on top for extra crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

One expert tip for making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is to marinate the chicken in some of the Bang Bang sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the flavors penetrate deeper into the meat, making it even more delicious. Additionally, using a grill mat or aluminum foil with holes punched in it can help prevent the skewers from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Storage Tips

For leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s best to store the sauce separately to prevent the skewers from becoming soggy. When reheating, you can brush the skewers with a little more sauce to refresh the flavors.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can be a thoughtful and unique gift, especially if packaged nicely. Consider placing the skewers in a decorative container or bag, accompanied by a side of Bang Bang sauce and some fresh vegetables or salad. You can also include a recipe card with suggestions for sides and drinks to make it a complete gift. For a more rustic look, wrap the skewers in parchment paper or a paper bag and tie with a twine, adding a handwritten note with cooking instructions.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Experiment with various spice blends like cumin for a Mexican twist, curry powder for an Indian flavor, or smoked paprika for a smoky taste.
Creative toppings: In addition to the classic Bang Bang sauce, try topping your skewers with diced mango, pineapple, or peaches for a sweet and spicy combination. Other options include crispy bacon, chopped fresh herbs, or toasted coconut flakes.
Ingredient swaps: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with portobello mushrooms, eggplant, or zucchini. You can also use different types of meat like beef, pork, or lamb, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the chicken becomes too dry, it might be overcooked. Try adjusting the cooking time or using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature. For soggy vegetables, reduce the cooking time or cook them separately from the chicken.
Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find a specific ingredient, don’t hesitate to substitute it with something similar. For example, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce or substitute lime juice with lemon juice.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the skewers while they’re cooking. If the chicken is cooked through but the vegetables are still raw, finish cooking the vegetables in a pan with a little oil until they’re tender. Conversely, if the vegetables are done but the chicken is still pink, continue cooking the chicken until it reaches the safe internal temperature.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for up to 2 months. Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.
Is it gluten-free? The Bang Bang sauce typically contains mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce, both of which are gluten-free. However, always check the ingredient labels of your specific brands to ensure they meet gluten-free standards. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re cooking more skewers at once, to ensure everything is cooked through evenly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With their balance of spicy, sweet, and sour flavors, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating something delicious and unique. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a great choice for a quick, impressive meal that’s sure to become a favorite.