Bang Bang Chicken Kebabs Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Original Recipe Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons Sriracha, divided
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 onion, cut into 2-inch wedges
• 8 mushrooms, stems removed
• 1/3 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for oiling grill grates
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken breast pieces, buttermilk, and 2 tablespoons of Sriracha. Stir well and set aside at room temperature while the grill heats up.
2. Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat.
3. Thread the chicken pieces, bell pepper wedges, onion wedges, and mushrooms onto metal skewers, alternating between chicken and vegetables to ensure even distribution.
4. To make the Bang Bang sauce, mix the remaining Sriracha, sweet Thai chili sauce, soy sauce, mayonnaise, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl. Set aside half of the sauce for later use.
5. Once the grill is hot, take a folded paper towel, dip it in vegetable oil, and use tongs to oil the grill grates.
6. Place the skewers on the oiled grill grates and brush them generously with the sauce. Close the grill lid and cook for 2-3 minutes.
7. After 2-3 minutes, turn the skewers a quarter turn, brush them with more sauce, close the lid, and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Continue rotating and brushing the skewers every 2-3 minutes until all sides are lightly charred and the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165F (74C), and juices should run clear, which should take approximately 4-8 minutes more.
9. Note: If the grill flares up during cooking, move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill and continue grilling until done.
10. Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Tent with foil and let them rest for 5-10 minutes.
11. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and lime wedges, and serve with the reserved Bang Bang sauce.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories	642
Total Fat	35g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	158mg
Sodium	1753mg
Total Carbohydrate	22g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Total Sugars	14g
Protein	58g
Vitamin C	86mg
Calcium	117mg
Iron	4mg
Potassium	996mg

The Story Behind Bang Bang Chicken Kebabs

Bang Bang Chicken Kebabs trace their roots to a unique fusion of Chinese and Western culinary influences. Originally inspired by the popular Sichuan dish Bang Bang Chicken, which features shredded chicken coated in a spicy-sweet sauce, the kebab adaptation emerged as chefs and home cooks sought a grilled version suitable for outdoor barbecues. The name "Bang Bang" is said to come from the sound of the meat being tenderized with a wooden mallet in traditional preparation, which also symbolizes the bold and explosive flavors that the dish delivers.

Regional Variations

While the original dish comes from Sichuan province in China, the kebab version has been embraced across the United States and parts of Europe. In Sichuan, the sauce tends to be oilier and spicier, often including sesame paste and chili oil. Western adaptations often balance the heat with creamy elements like mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, and sriracha, making the dish more approachable for a broader audience. Regional tweaks also include using local vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms on the skewers, which adds both color and texture.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken Kebabs differ from traditional chicken skewers or satay in both preparation and flavor profile. Unlike plain grilled chicken, the bang bang version features a layered sauce that is both spicy and sweet, offering a signature tangy kick. Compared to classic satay, which is peanut-based and often served with a coconut-infused sauce, Bang Bang Chicken Kebabs highlight a creamy chili-mayo blend that sets them apart. The combination of grilling and basting with the sauce creates a smoky, caramelized exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and tender.

Serving Occasions

Bang Bang Chicken Kebabs are typically served at casual gatherings, backyard barbecues, or summer parties. They pair beautifully with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or simple green salads. Many restaurants also feature them as appetizers or main dishes, often accompanied by dipping sauces or garnished with lime wedges and green onions for added freshness and visual appeal. Their portable skewer format makes them ideal for outdoor events and street-food-style presentations.

Interesting Facts

• The term "Bang Bang" can also refer to the rhythmic pounding of the chicken to tenderize it, which was a traditional step in early Chinese recipes.
• Despite its spicy flavor, the combination of sweet chili sauce and mayonnaise makes this dish surprisingly mild for children and those sensitive to heat.
• Grilling the kebabs with the sauce brushed on multiple times allows the sugars in the chili sauce to caramelize, giving the chicken a glossy, slightly charred appearance that enhances flavor.
• Bang Bang Chicken Kebabs are part of a larger trend of adapting traditional Asian dishes for Western grilling techniques, making them accessible to a global audience while preserving their distinctive taste.

FAQ about Bang Bang Chicken Kebabs Recipe