Craving a flavorful, fun, and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the perfect solution. They're packed with flavor, require minimal prep time, and are incredibly satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your healthy meal rotation. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (or more, to taste!)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 12-15 wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. This creates the flavorful bang bang sauce that coats the chicken.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss to ensure all the pieces are evenly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more delicious it will be!
Assemble and Grill (or Bake):
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
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Grill the skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Alternatively, bake the skewers in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the skewers from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired. Serve these delicious skewers on their own, over rice, with a side salad, or as part of a larger meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: This will lower the temperature and prevent proper browning. Grill in batches if necessary.
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken overnight for a truly intense taste experience.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness. For a milder version, use less or substitute with chili garlic sauce.
- Make it ahead: You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Variations:
- Veggie Bang Bang: Add bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a more vibrant and nutritious meal.
- Peanut Bang Bang: Stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter to the marinade for a creamy, nutty twist.
- Teriyaki Bang Bang: Replace the sriracha with 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce for a sweeter and less spicy flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving of 4 skewers and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Around 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: Around 10-15g
These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes, homemade cooking ideas, and healthy meals. They're quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!