Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs are tasty skewers filled with juicy chicken, coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. Perfect for grilling on a sunny day or whipping up a quick dinner!
These kabobs are a hit at parties! I love how easy they are to make—just marinate the chicken, skewer, and grill. Plus, you can dip them in extra sauce for that kick of flavor! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for tenderness. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, turkey breast works well too! For a more flavorful bite, use chicken thighs as they stay juicier.
Mayo: Regular mayo creates a rich sauce, but you can swap in Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. This change also adds a little tanginess, which I find delightful!
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is essential for that sweet and slightly spicy kick. If you can’t find it, consider mixing sugar with a bit of vinegar and hot sauce for a makeshift version.
Sriracha: Adjust the heat to your liking! If you’re not a fan of sriracha, try using a milder hot sauce or even some paprika for a smokier flavor.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic make a big difference in flavor. If you have to use dried versions, remember to use less as they are more concentrated.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Grilled Kabobs?
Grilling kabobs may seem tricky, but with these tips, you’re on the right track! First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken, locking in those tasty juices.
- Space out the chicken cubes on the skewers. This gives them room to cook evenly and prevents steaming.
- Turn the skewers every couple of minutes. This helps achieve grilling marks and crispy edges.
- Brush on your Bang Bang sauce in the last minute of cooking. This locks in the flavor without burning the sauce.
Keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking—juicy kabobs are the best! Enjoy your tasty creation!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Kabobs:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 40 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and marinating the chicken, then around 15-20 minutes for cooking the kabobs, including grilling them to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
Begin by placing the cubed chicken breasts into a large bowl. Add in the salt, pepper, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Mix everything together well so all the chicken is coated with the seasonings. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. This will help infuse it with flavor!
2. Making the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the chicken is marinating, let’s make the Bang Bang sauce! In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and soy sauce until everything is combined smoothly. Remember to set aside a portion of this tasty sauce to use for serving later on.
3. Skewering the Chicken:
Now it’s time to assemble! If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes to prevent burning. Then, thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece to ensure they cook evenly on the grill.
4. Cooking the Kabobs:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning the kabobs occasionally. You’re looking for that lovely golden color and nice grill marks, and you want the chicken to be fully cooked through.
5. Glazing with Sauce:
In the final minute of grilling, brush the kabobs with the Bang Bang sauce. This will create a delicious glaze that enhances the flavor and makes them extra tasty!
6. Serving:
Once the kabobs are cooked, carefully remove them from the grill. Drizzle with the reserved Bang Bang sauce for an extra kick. Sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch, and enjoy your Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs warm and delicious!
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts for Kabobs?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more moisture and flavor to your kabobs. Just cut them into 1-inch cubes, and they will cook well with the same timings. Adjust the cooking time slightly if you find they need a few extra minutes for doneness.
What if I Don’t Have Wooden Skewers?
No problem! If you don’t have wooden skewers, metal skewers work great too. Just ensure they are greased lightly to prevent sticking. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to avoid burning.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, indeed! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients might settle.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
To store leftovers, let the kabobs cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or on a skillet to maintain their texture, and feel free to add a splash of extra Bang Bang sauce when reheating for added flavor!
