Oven-baked Bliss: Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Guide
Introduction to Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Hey there! So, let’s talk about a dish that’s taking over both flashy restaurants and cozy home kitchens - Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. These skewers are all about bringing a bit of zing to your table with their unforgettable flavors. Now, I get it, we all love grilling season, but what about those times when the weather just won’t cooperate? Or maybe you're looking for something quick without firing up the grill. That's where the oven version swoops in to save the day. Baking these skewers offers a fuss-free route to achieving that perfect balance of spicy and savory goodness we all crave. The bang bang sauce? Oh, it’s a game-changer. Imagine a sauce so good that it brilliantly weaves together the heat from Sriracha with the sweetness of honey and Thai sweet chili sauce, making each bite an adventure.
Key Takeaways:
- Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: A versatile and delicious choice for any occasion.
- Oven-Baked Method: Offers an easy and equally flavorful alternative to grilling.
- Spicy and Savory: The homemade bang bang sauce brings the dish to life.
Essential Ingredients Overview
Hey there! I'm here to share a bit about the essential ingredients you'll need for whipping up some mouth-watering Bang Bang Chicken Skewers right in your oven. This dish is a fan favorite for its explosive flavors and easy prep – and the magic? It all begins with the ingredients.
- Chicken breasts or thighs: The star of the show. You can choose either, depending on your preference. Chicken breasts are leaner, while thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Cut them into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Homemade Bang Bang Sauce components: This spicy sauce is what sets these skewers apart! You'll mix together some creamy mayonnaise, sweet and tangy Thai sweet chili sauce, a dash of Sriracha for heat, and a hint of honey for sweetness. It's that simple, yet so delicious.
- Wooden or metal skewers: To build your skewers, you can use either. Just remember, if you're opting for wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
I always encourage grabbing the freshest ingredients you can find – it genuinely makes all the difference in bringing out the vibrant flavors of this dish. Ready to get started?
Preparing Your Chicken
When I get ready for one of my all-time favorite dishes, the mood in the kitchen instantly uplifts. Preparing the chicken for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is like setting the stage for an incredible performance. I begin with either chicken breasts or thighs, depending on what I have on hand or what's calling my name from the fridge. The trick here, I've found, is to chop the chicken into even, bite-size cubes. This isn't just about aesthetics; it ensures each piece cooks uniformly, giving you juicy, perfect bites every time.
Next, I whisk together a simple, yet magic marinade. A splash of extra virgin olive oil for that silky richness, Slap Yo Momma seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. It's a classic melody that never misses a beat. After thoroughly tossing the chicken cubes in this concoction, they're well on their way to becoming those oven-baked bliss skewers we’re all craving. It's a step so simple, yet so foundational to the bang bang experience. Whether you’re team breast or thigh, the result is sure to warm both belly and heart.
Crafting the Bang Bang Sauce
Now, let's dive into the heart of what makes these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers truly stand out - the homemade bang bang sauce. I always grab a separate bowl for this part because it's where the magic happens. Start by whisking together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, a touch of honey, and Sriracha. Yes, it's that simple, but wait till you taste it!
If you're anything like me, you know that personal taste is everything, especially when it comes to spiciness. That's why I love this sauce; you can easily adjust the Sriracha to match how fiery you want your meal. And here's a little tip from my kitchen to yours: always pour half of the sauce into another container and set it aside. Why? Because drizzling this reserved bang bang sauce over your freshly baked chicken skewers takes the flavor to an entirely new level. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Skewering the Chicken
Do you know that tiny moment of bliss when you get everything just right in the kitchen? That's exactly what happens when you master the art of skewering chicken for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. It's simpler than you think, and it starts with either wooden or metal skewers. Now, if you're using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before you start. This is crucial to prevent them from turning into charcoal sticks in your oven. Trust me, it's a step you don't want to skip.
Once your skewers are ready, it's time to thread those marinated chicken cubes. I'm talking about those perfectly seasoned pieces of chicken breasts or thighs that have been taking in all the flavors of garlic powder, olive oil, and a kiss of kosher salt and black pepper. Grab your skewers and start threading 4-5 chicken cubes onto each. This number isn't arbitrary; it ensures each piece cooks evenly and gets that golden brown finish we all love. Imagine pulling a tray of these beauties out of the oven, each skewer lined with perfectly cooked and slightly charred edges of chicken. Now that's what I call oven-baked bliss.
Oven Cooking Instructions
Okay, so you've marinated your chicken pieces, crafted that irresistible homemade bang bang sauce, and skewered those chunks of chicken onto your chosen soak-prepped wooden or metal skewers. Now, it's showtime in the oven! Here's how I do it to guarantee those chicken skewers turn out just perfect - I'm talking golden brown with a little char to sing of a job well done, all while ensuring we hit that crucial internal temperature for safety and juiciness.
First things first, crank up your oven to a fiery 400°F. You want it hot so those chicken kebabs get a beautiful sear. Then, line your trusty baking sheet with parchment for an easy cleanup. Arrange your place skewers in a single layer, making sure they're not touching. This is your moment to embrace a bit of space - it lets the heat circulate better, meaning you're on your way to getting those coveted char marks.
Now, pop them in the oven and set your timer for 30-40 minutes. Halfway through, give them a loving flip to ensure an even golden blush on every side. And here's where your cooking knack kicks in - keep a watchful eye as they cook. You're aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F, a golden ticket to succulent, safely cooked chicken. Once out of the oven, let them rest for a moment or two. Then, lavish them with that remaining sauce you wisely reserved. It's not just chicken skewers; it's a love letter to flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Once you've masterfully oven-baked those spicy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, drizzle them generously with the reserved bang bang sauce you set aside earlier—it’s like the cherry on top! But why stop there? Sprinkle a handful of sesame seeds, chop up some fresh green onions, or dollop a bit of sour cream on them for that extra pizzazz. For a truly complete meal, serve these tantalizing skewers alongside fluffy coconut rice or a medley of seasonal vegetables. And here's a little insider tip: Consider making a double batch of that dynamite sauce. Trust me, you’ll want it. Not just for the skewers, but as a dipping extravaganza for everything on the table. It’s that good, and your whole family will thank you!
A Flavorful End to Your Meal Prep
And there we have it, friends - our journey through crafting the perfect oven-baked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers! I hope this guide has shown you just how simple and utterly delicious making this savory dish at home can be. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious beginner, these skewers are sure to add a burst of flavor to your table, impressing not just you but the whole family.
Now, I’m all for sticking to a recipe, but if there’s one thing that cooking has taught me, it’s the beauty of experimentation. So, don’t shy away from adjusting the spiciness of the bang bang sauce or trying different chicken pieces. Maybe throw in a bit of that chili powder or a splash more soy sauce – make it uniquely yours! And when you do, I’d love to hear all about it. Your feedback, your takes on this favorite recipe, and any bright moment recipes you’ve discovered along the way are what keep this little kitchen of ours so vibrant and full of life.
Looking for other great skewer recipes? Check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers recipe!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
- wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes
- For The Chicken
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons slap yo momma seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Green onions sliced, optional
- Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 ¼ cups mayonnaise
- ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoon Sriracha or more to taste
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons Rice vinegar
Instructions
- Combine oil, Slap Yo Momma seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a spacious mixing bowl. Toss in the chicken until it's thoroughly coated with the spice mixture.
- Craft the Bang Bang Sauce by blending mayonnaise, Thai chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl, yielding approximately 1 ¾ cups of sauce.
- Set aside half for later use. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken in the bowl and mix until well combined. Thread 5-6 chicken pieces onto each skewer.
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees and prepare a cookie sheet covered with aluminum foil and a rack on top sprayed with no stick spray
- Arrange the skewers in a single layer on the rack and bake for 15 minutes and flip the skewers. In another 20 minutes flip all of the skewers once more and baste with Bang Bang Sauce and cook for 5 additional minutes.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the cooked skewers to a serving dish and brush with the reserved Bang Bang Sauce. Sprinkle with chopped green onions for garnish. Serve and enjoy!
Nora says
These chicken skewers were so juicy and flavorful! Will make them again! Yum!
Juyali says
Everyone in my family loved this recipe. I actually had 'slap yo momma seasoning' at home from one of our trips to North Carolina, So this recipe was perfect for me to use it. Such a tasty chicken! Thank you for the easy and delish recipe.
Lathiya says
This is one of the best chicken skewers I had. Loved the flavors and kids were literally licking their fingers.