These Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs are fun and tasty! Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a spicy sauce and grilled to perfection. They’re perfect for a party or a family dinner!
Now, who doesn’t love a good kabob? I always like to serve them with some extra sauce for dipping—because more sauce is always better, right? 😂
I enjoy making these kabobs because they’re quick and easy! Just marinate the chicken, slide it onto skewers, and grill them up. It’s a simple way to impress everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe, as they grill evenly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey breast or even firm tofu for a meatless version.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to your sauce. If you want a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. They work just as well and add a nice tangy flavor.
Sweet Chili Sauce: It provides a sweet and mild heat. If it’s hard to find, a mix of honey and a dash of hot sauce can make a decent substitute. Adjust to your taste!
Sriracha: This spicy sauce really amps up the flavor. If you prefer less heat, you can skip it or substitute with a milder hot sauce. You can even use a pinch of red pepper flakes for a different kick.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice will work too. Just remember it’ll slightly change the flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Kabobs Are Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling kabobs can be super fun, but you want to get them just right! Here’s how to make sure your chicken stays juicy and flavorful:
- Soak the wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning.
- Make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the kabobs. This helps to sear the chicken and lock in flavor.
- When grilling, turn the kabobs occasionally, about every 3-4 minutes, and look for nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
After grilling, brush the kabobs with the reserved sauce for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top! It really makes a big difference!
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8-10 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes to marinate, plus another 12 minutes for grilling. Total, expect about 52 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Sauce:
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This tangy mixture will be the star of our kabobs! Once everything is combined, set aside about 1/4 of the sauce for drizzling later.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the remaining sauce in the bowl. Make sure each piece is well-coated in that tasty sauce! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will give you an even more flavorful result!
3. Prepare to Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This is important for getting those beautiful grill marks and ensuring your chicken cooks evenly.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once your chicken has marinated, take the soaked wooden skewers and thread the pieces of chicken onto them. Leave a little space between each piece so they can cook properly. Now you’re ready to grill!
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place your kabobs on the heated grill. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want the chicken to be cooked through and have nice grill marks. Just remember, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
6. Brush with Sauce:
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill. Brush them generously with the reserved sauce for an extra kick of flavor!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the kabobs with some chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. Now you’re ready to serve up your Bang Bang Chicken Kabobs. Enjoy!
Can I Use Thigh Instead of Chicken Breast for the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will make your kabobs juicier and more flavorful. Just cut the thighs into 1-inch pieces, and follow the recipe as usual. They may take a minute longer to cook, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have a mayonnaise allergy, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute! It will provide creaminess while adding a tangy flavor. You can also use sour cream or even a vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead! Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it again, as some ingredients may separate while sitting.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Enjoy them as is or in a wrap for a quick lunch!
