Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

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Looking to elevate your grilling game with a tantalizing new recipe? Look no further than these delectable Bang Bang Chicken Skewers! Bursting with flavor and easy to make, these skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a tasty meal, these skewers are sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe and get ready to tantalize your taste buds!

Ingredients:

  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 ¼ cups (290 g) mayonnaise
  • ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Sriracha, or more to taste
  • 2 tablespoons honey

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with extra virgin olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken cubes until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
  2. Skewer the Chicken:
    • Thread 4-5 seasoned chicken cubes onto each pre-soaked wooden skewer, ensuring they are evenly distributed along the skewer.
  3. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
    • In another bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey to create the irresistible Bang Bang sauce. Adjust the Sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness.
  4. Coat the Skewers:
    • Brush half of the prepared Bang Bang sauce generously over the chicken skewers, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  5. Air Fry:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
    • Place the coated chicken skewers in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
    • Air fry the skewers for 11-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process, until they are golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F

Nutritional Information:

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cooking Time: 12 mins
  • Total Time: 22 mins
  • Calories per Serving: 253
  • Servings: 16 skewers

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Presentation is Key: When serving Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, consider garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a visually appealing presentation. Arrange the skewers on a platter with a side of the reserved Bang Bang sauce for dipping.
  2. Pairing Suggestions: These skewers pair well with a variety of sides such as steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Consider serving them alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance out the flavors.
  3. Keep it Hot: To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are enjoyed at their best, serve them hot off the grill or air fryer. The combination of tender chicken and flavorful sauce is most enjoyable when served immediately.
  4. Leftover Care: If you have any leftover skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, consider using an oven or toaster oven to help retain their crispy texture.
  5. Enjoy Cold: Alternatively, leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can also be enjoyed cold. They make a delicious addition to lunchboxes or picnic baskets for a convenient and flavorful meal on the go.

Variations:

  1. Shrimp Skewers: Swap out the chicken for large shrimp to create flavorful Bang Bang Shrimp Skewers. Marinate the shrimp in the same seasoning mixture as the chicken before threading onto skewers and grilling or air frying until cooked through. Serve with the Bang Bang sauce for dipping.
  2. Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free alternative, use firm tofu or tempeh cubes instead of chicken. Marinate the tofu or tempeh in the seasoning mixture, then thread onto skewers and grill or air fry until golden brown. Serve with the Bang Bang sauce for a delicious vegetarian option.
  3. Beef or Pork: Experiment with different proteins by using beef or pork cubes instead of chicken. Marinate the beef or pork in your favorite seasonings before threading onto skewers and cooking until done. The savory flavors of beef or pork complement the sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce beautifully.
  4. Spicy Variation: For those who love extra heat, kick up the spice level by adding more Sriracha or incorporating diced jalapeños into the seasoning mixture. Adjust the amount of spicy ingredients according to your personal preference for a fiery twist on this classic recipe.
  5. Asian Fusion Twist: Give the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers an Asian fusion twist by adding ingredients like ginger, soy sauce, or sesame oil to the seasoning mixture. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor that’s reminiscent of your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.
  6. Pineapple Addition: Add chunks of fresh pineapple to the skewers for a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory chicken and spicy Bang Bang sauce. The caramelized pineapple adds a tropical flair to the dish, making it perfect for summer gatherings or luau-themed parties.

By exploring these creative variations, you can customize the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers to suit your taste preferences and culinary adventures. Whether you’re craving seafood, tofu, or a fiery kick, these versatile options are sure to keep your taste buds delighted with every bite!

FAQs

  1. What is Bang Bang Chicken?
    • Bang Bang Chicken is a popular dish featuring tender chicken cubes coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce. It’s typically served on skewers for easy eating and is known for its irresistible flavor combination.
  2. What is the origin of Bang Bang Chicken?
    • Bang Bang Chicken is believed to have originated from the Sichuan province of China. The name “Bang Bang” refers to the sound made by the wooden stick used to tenderize the chicken, creating its signature texture.
  3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
    • Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe. Thighs will add a bit more richness and flavor to the skewers. Simply cube the thighs and follow the same marinating and cooking instructions.
  4. Can I grill Bang Bang Chicken Skewers instead of air frying them?
    • Absolutely! You can grill the skewers over medium-high heat on a preheated grill. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  5. Is Thai sweet chili sauce spicy?
    • Thai sweet chili sauce typically has a mild level of spiciness. It’s sweet with a subtle heat, making it a versatile condiment for various dishes. However, spice levels can vary between brands, so adjust the amount of Sriracha according to your heat preference.
  6. Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
    • While it’s best to serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers fresh for optimal flavor and texture, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble and cook the skewers just before serving.
  7. How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
    • Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken helps prevent them from burning during cooking. Alternatively, you can use metal skewers if you prefer.

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using an air fryer indoors, this recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to make. Impress your family and friends at your next gathering with these irresistible skewers that are bound to leave everyone craving for more. So, fire up the grill or air fryer and get ready to indulge in a culinary delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!