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Introduction
Indulge in the fiery and flavorful world of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, a delicious entrĂ©e that can be either grilled or air-fried to perfection. These skewers are not only gluten-free but are also infused with a blend of spices and slathered in a sweet and tangy Bang Bang sauce. They’re perfect for spicing up dinner time with a dish that’s both savory and slightly spicy, ensuring each bite is as exciting as the last.
Ingredients
- 1½-2 lbs chicken thighs, cubed into 1-inch pieces (boneless, skinless breasts can also be used)
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for less heat)
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 Tbsp hot honey (regular honey is an alternative)
- Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (add more if needed)
- 2 Tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed
- â…” cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup Sriracha (adjust based on desired heat level)
Directions
Prepare the Skewers:
- In a large bowl, combine cubed chicken thighs with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss to coat evenly.
- Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning.
- Thread the chicken onto the skewers until about half to three-quarters filled.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce: 4. In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice to create about 1.5 cups of Bang Bang sauce.
- Divide the sauce into two bowls. Use one for brushing during cooking and the other for serving as a dip.
Cooking: 6. For Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high. Brush skewers with sauce. Grill for 8-10 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Continue to brush with sauce until caramelized.
- For Air Frying: Place skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve: 8. Drizzle or brush the cooked skewers with the reserved Bang Bang sauce and hot honey if desired. Serve immediately.
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FAQs
Q: Can I make these skewers ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the skewers a few hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together more intensely.
Q: What sides pair well with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers? A: These skewers go great with a light cucumber salad, steamed rice, or grilled vegetables to complement the spicy and rich flavors.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers? A: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes or gently in the microwave, being careful not to overcook.
Q: How can I adjust the spice level? A: Modify the heat by reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper and Sriracha in the sauce. Adjust according to your preference.
Q: What can I substitute for Thai sweet chili sauce in the Bang Bang sauce? A: If you don’t have Thai sweet chili sauce, you can make a simple substitute by mixing a tablespoon of honey with a few dashes of hot sauce or chili flakes. This mixture won’t replicate the exact flavor but will provide a similar sweet and spicy balance.
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs? A: Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used as a leaner alternative to thighs. Just be cautious of the cooking time, as breasts can dry out faster. Consider marinating for a little longer to help keep them moist.
Q: How can I ensure the chicken skewers cook evenly on the grill or air fryer? A: To ensure even cooking, try to cut the chicken into uniform pieces and space them evenly on the skewers. Avoid overcrowding the grill or air fryer basket. For the grill, maintain a consistent medium-high heat and turn the skewers regularly. In the air fryer, cooking in batches can help circulate air more effectively.
Q: Is there a way to make the Bang Bang sauce creamier? A: For a creamier sauce, you can add a tablespoon or two of Greek yogurt or increase the mayonnaise content. This will also mellow out the spice level slightly, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Q: How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning when grilling? A: Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling can help prevent them from burning. This is especially important if you’re cooking at high temperatures or for extended periods.
Q: Can I make these skewers vegan or vegetarian? A: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or large chunks of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. Make sure to press the tofu well to remove excess moisture before marinating.
Q: What are some tips for making this recipe kid-friendly? A: To make these skewers more suitable for children, reduce the amount of spicy ingredients like cayenne pepper and Sriracha in the sauce. You can also add more honey to sweeten the sauce slightly, which often appeals to younger palates.
Q: How can I add more flavor to the chicken before grilling or air frying? A: Marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator can deepen the flavors significantly. Consider adding lemon zest, minced garlic, or ginger to the marinade for an extra flavor boost.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer a perfect blend of spice, sweetness, and tanginess, making them an ideal choice for those who love a meal with a kick. Whether grilled under the stars or air-fried indoors, these skewers are sure to be a hit at any dining table, providing a zesty and enjoyable eating experience that’s both satisfying and memorable.
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