Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha
• 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast, cubed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. To prepare the bang bang sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a bowl until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, add the cubed chicken, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
3. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grate to prevent sticking.
4. Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto skewers. Brush the chicken on all sides with the prepared bang bang sauce.
5. Place the skewers directly on the grill and cook for 4 minutes on the first side.
6. Turn the skewers over, baste them again with the sauce, and grill for another 4 minutes.
7. Flip the skewers one final time, baste with the remaining sauce, and grill for an additional 2 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink at the center and the juices run clear. To ensure proper cooking, the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165F (74C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer.
8. Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	521
Total Fat	28g (36% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	5g (26% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	156mg (52% Daily Value)
Sodium	604mg (26% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate	10g (4% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	0g (1% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	9g
Protein	53g (106% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	1mg (1% Daily Value)
Calcium	30mg (2% Daily Value)
Iron	2mg (11% Daily Value)
Potassium	463mg (10% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data and may vary depending on specific ingredients.

The Story Behind Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a modern adaptation of traditional Chinese cuisine, originating from the Sichuan region of China. The term Bang Bang refers to the sound of tenderizing meat with a wooden mallet, a technique historically used to achieve a delicate texture. Over time, this preparation evolved into a more approachable dish for international audiences, combining sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors into a convenient skewer format. Its rise in popularity outside of China owes much to the fusion of Thai chili sauces and American barbecue grilling techniques, creating a truly global culinary experience.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While the classic Bang Bang Chicken uses shredded poached chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce, skewers introduce a grilled, smoky dimension. In Sichuan, the dish is usually served cold with a sesame-peanut based sauce and is much spicier, reflecting the local love for heat and numbing Sichuan peppercorns. In contrast, Western adaptations, particularly in the U.S., soften the spice with mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce, making it more family-friendly. In Thailand, the integration of Thai sweet chili sauce adds a tangy-sweet contrast that complements the grilled chicken, creating a cross-cultural flavor profile.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers differ from other grilled chicken recipes like yakitori or satay in several ways. Unlike Japanese yakitori, which emphasizes soy-based marinades and subtle seasonings, Bang Bang Chicken features a creamy, spicy sauce that is both sweet and fiery. Compared to Thai satay, which relies heavily on peanut sauce and coconut milk, Bang Bang Chicken balances heat and creaminess without a coconut base. This unique combination of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors makes it instantly recognizable and distinct from other chicken skewer dishes.

Typical Serving Contexts

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are versatile in their serving settings. They are commonly enjoyed as appetizers at casual gatherings, barbecues, or summer parties. In restaurants, they often appear on Asian fusion menus, served alongside fresh salads, steamed rice, or light noodle dishes. Their finger-food format makes them ideal for buffet-style presentations or as a party snack, where guests can easily enjoy the bold flavors without a formal sit-down meal.

Interesting Facts and Tips

Interestingly, the popularity of Bang Bang Chicken outside Asia can be partly credited to American Chinese restaurants in the late 20th century, where chefs adapted traditional recipes for local tastes. The name Bang Bang sometimes leads diners to expect explosive heat, but the signature flavor is more about the contrast of creamy sweetness and mild spiciness. Another fun fact is that the dishs sauce works wonderfully with other proteins such as shrimp, tofu, or even roasted vegetables, making it highly versatile. Additionally, using an air fryer or a grill enhances the texture, giving the chicken a lightly charred exterior while keeping it tender and juicy inside.

FAQ about Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

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