Description
This Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is a delicious twist on the classic bang bang chicken, featuring tender chicken thighs seasoned to perfection and coated in a spicy, creamy bang bang sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan recipe is quick, requires minimal ingredients, and brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 recipe bang bang sauce, or 1 cup store-bought bang bang sauce
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken
Start by combining the kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika in a small bowl. Rub this mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, ensuring they’re well coated with flavor. - Cook the Chicken in the Skillet
Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on one side, then flip, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for another 5 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. - Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce in the Skillet
After the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate, covering it to keep it warm. Pour the bang bang sauce directly into the skillet, stirring and scraping up any flavorful brown bits left at the bottom. Allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes, until it’s heated through. - Coat the Chicken in Sauce
Place the cooked chicken thighs back into the skillet, making sure each piece is well-coated with the sauce. The sauce will cling beautifully to the chicken, adding a spicy, creamy kick. - Garnish and Serve
For a fresh finish, sprinkle the chicken with chopped green onions. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Notes
Serving Tips
- Pair with Sides: Serve your skillet bang bang chicken thighs with fluffy white rice, fried rice, or garlic noodles to soak up the extra sauce. For a lighter option, pair with steamed veggies, a simple side salad, or cauliflower rice.
- Add Crunch: Garnish with crispy fried onions, toasted sesame seeds, or chopped peanuts to add texture and an extra layer of flavor.
- Customize the Heat: If you want a milder version, reduce the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce before serving.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cooked and cooled chicken thighs in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the chicken by seasoning it a few hours ahead of time. The bang bang sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
These serving and storage tips make it easy to enjoy Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs anytime while keeping the flavors fresh and vibrant!
