Delight your taste buds with a spicy and flavorful dinner that is both easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer a tantalizing combination of juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy dipping sauce that will leave you craving more. This Asian-inspired chicken recipe is a great addition to your easy dinner ideas, ideal for quick weeknight meals, or as skewered chicken appetizers for a gathering. Packed with the right amount of heat from the chili garlic sauce, these spicy chicken skewers are perfect for an outdoor grilling session or a simple one-pan meal that the whole family will love. The skewers’ colorful presentation is sure to impress both family and guests.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 red bell peppers, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 8-10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

For the Tangy Dipping Sauce

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)

Steps / Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade. Make sure to whisk these ingredients thoroughly to ensure all flavors are well integrated. The balance of salty, sweet, and spicy elements is crucial for depth of flavor.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more intense flavor. This resting time allows the chicken to absorb all the aromatic spices and moisture, making it tender and flavorful. Always cover the bowl to prevent any cross-contamination.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking, which will help achieve those perfect charred marks. A preheated grill is essential for locking in juices and adding a smokey flavor.
4. Thread the marinated chicken, red bell peppers, and red onion onto the soaked bamboo skewers, alternating between each ingredient. This not only ensures even cooking but also creates a visually appealing pattern. Maintain a little space between pieces to allow even heat circulation.
5. Grill the chicken skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has charred grill marks. A meat thermometer should read 165°F when inserted into the chicken to confirm it’s done. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains juicy.
6. While the skewers are grilling, prepare the tangy dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and fish sauce in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust lime juice to taste for desired tanginess. The fish sauce adds umami depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping it moist and tender. Serve on a platter for a striking presentation.

Tips & Tricks

• Marinade: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will enhance the flavors significantly. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can make a difference. Be sure to discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken to prevent contamination.
• Grilling: Soak bamboo skewers in water to prevent them from burning on the grill. This step is crucial for safe grilling. Alternatively, metal skewers can be used and do not require soaking.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken. Skewers can also be removed for easier storage.
• Make-ahead: Prepare the marinade and chicken the night before for an easy-to-assemble meal. This can save you valuable time on busy weekdays. You can also chop vegetables ahead to streamline prep time.
• Common Mistakes: Be sure not to overcrowd the skewers; this ensures even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and longer grill times. Maintain a steady grill temperature to avoid burning.
• Pro Tip: Use a pastry brush to apply leftover marinade on the skewers during grilling for added flavor. Ensure the marinade is applied early to allow time for cooking out raw ingredients.

Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegan version. Press tofu beforehand to remove excess moisture for better texture. Marinate longer as tofu absorbs flavors more gradually.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Check labels to ensure all ingredients used are gluten-free. This will accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
• Flavor Variations: Add pineapple chunks to the skewers for a sweet contrast to the spicy chicken. Consider adding mushrooms or zucchini for more vegetable variety. These additions provide a delightful twist and added nutrients.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce to increase or decrease the heat to your personal preference. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount or try a milder chili sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with a refreshing Spinach Mandarin Salad with Honey Balsamic Dressing or pair them with Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic for a complete meal. For an added burst of flavor, garnish with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy these zesty chicken skewers alongside a cold lemonade or a light beer for a perfect balance of flavors. Alternatively, serve with a side of jasmine rice and steamed vegetables for a complete Asian-inspired meal. For a festive touch, consider serving on a bed of leafy greens with lemon wedges on the side.

FAQ

• Can I bake the chicken skewers instead of grilling? Yes, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking. Baking provides a great alternative for those without access to a grill. Ensure to preheat the oven for consistent results.
• What can I use instead of chili garlic sauce? Sriracha or a combination of crushed red pepper flakes and garlic will work as a substitute. Adjust the quantity according to your spice preference. These alternatives can provide similar heat and flavor complexity.
• Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling. This makes it easy to have a meal ready at a moment’s notice. Always label containers with dates to track freshness.
• How do I prevent the chicken from drying out? Ensure the chicken is not overcooked and remove it from the grill once the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Resting the chicken post-cooking also helps retain moisture.
• Is there a way to make this recipe without fish sauce? Yes, simply omit the fish sauce from the dipping sauce for a milder flavor. Consider adding a dash of soy sauce or tamari to maintain the salty balance.

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Recipe by ForkFulJoy

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Delight your taste buds with a spicy and flavorful dinner that is both easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer a tantalizing combination of juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a tangy dipping sauce that will leave you craving more.

Course

Dinner

Cuisine

Asian

Difficulty

Easy

Share Print Save

🍽️

Servings

4

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

15 min

🔥

Calories

—

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Ingredients

US Metric

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 red bell peppers, cut into chunks
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 8-10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)

Directions

1.

In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili garlic sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.

2.

Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more intense flavor.

3.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.

4.

Thread the marinated chicken, red bell peppers, and red onion onto the soaked bamboo skewers, alternating between each ingredient.

5.

Grill the chicken skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has charred grill marks.

6.

Prepare the tangy dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and fish sauce in a small bowl until smooth.

7.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.