Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

If you're craving a quick, delicious, and slightly spicy chicken dish, you're in the right place. This Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe offers a perfect blend of crispy, juicy chicken and a bold, flavorful sauce that's sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're a fan of meal prepping or looking for something easy to throw together after a long day, this recipe will satisfy all your needs. Keep reading to learn how to make this mouthwatering dish, including tips for substitutions, cooking techniques, and how to avoid common mistakes.

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What is “Bang Bang Chicken”?

Bang Bang Chicken originates from the Sichuan region of China and traditionally features cold poached chicken, shredded and served with a spicy, tangy sauce. However, this Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is a modern twist, giving you crispy, pan-seared chicken thighs paired with a creamy, sweet, and spicy bang bang sauce. The sauce typically combines ingredients like mayonnaise, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce, creating a tangy kick that's both savory and sweet.

By using chicken thighs instead of the traditional shredded chicken breast, you get an extra layer of juiciness and flavor, making it ideal for skillet cooking. This dish is perfect as a weeknight dinner or can easily be scaled up for gatherings.

Ingredients List for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Here’s what you’ll need for the chicken:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, perfect for skillet cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For pan-searing the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle but essential flavor to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Balances out the garlic for a well-rounded taste.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasonings that enhance the chicken's natural flavor.

Ingredients List for Bang Bang Sauce

The Bang Bang sauce is what makes this recipe stand out:

• ½ cup mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base for the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons sriracha: Adds a nice spicy kick.
• 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Balances out the heat with some sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Gives the sauce a slight tang and cuts through the richness.
• 1 teaspoon honey: Adds another layer of sweetness.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor of the sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try based on what you have on hand:

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer a leaner option, feel free to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, they might not be as juicy as thighs. You could also try this recipe with tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or low-fat mayo.
• Sriracha: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of sriracha or substitute it with a milder hot sauce.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: You can use honey and a pinch of red pepper flakes as a substitute if you don’t have sweet chili sauce.
• Rice Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar works just as well if you don’t have rice vinegar on hand.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe is designed for ease and simplicity. Follow these steps to make your skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to ensure a crispy exterior.
3. Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, cooking for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You want the outside to be golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
4. Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and minced garlic in a small bowl until smooth.
5. Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet. Pour about half of the sauce over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Reserve the other half for serving.
6. Serve Immediately: Transfer the chicken thighs to a serving plate, drizzling with more sauce if desired.

How to Cook Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This step is crucial because it builds the foundational flavor of the dish.
2. Get the Skillet Hot: Always make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. The goal is to sear the chicken and create a crispy exterior, which locks in the juices and enhances the overall texture.
3. Cook Thoroughly: Make sure each side of the chicken is well-seared. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This guarantees that your chicken is fully cooked without being dry.
4. Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, whisk together the Bang Bang sauce. The beauty of this sauce is that it's quick to prepare but adds a world of flavor.
5. Combine: Once the chicken is done, coat it with the sauce while it's still hot, allowing the sauce to melt into the chicken for maximum flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not drying the chicken: Always pat your chicken thighs dry before seasoning. Moisture on the surface will prevent a good sear and can lead to steaming instead of browning.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Give each piece of chicken room to breathe. If your skillet is overcrowded, the chicken will steam rather than sear.
• Overcooking the chicken: Keep an eye on the internal temperature. Overcooked chicken thighs can become dry, despite being more forgiving than breasts.
• Undercooking the chicken: On the flip side, make sure your chicken is fully cooked. The best way to avoid undercooked chicken is to use a meat thermometer.

Serving and Presentation Tips

While this recipe is straightforward, presentation can elevate the meal:

1. Plating: Serve your Bang Bang Chicken over a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal. The rice absorbs the extra sauce, making every bite flavorful.
2. Garnish: Fresh cilantro or green onions make excellent garnishes. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add a touch of elegance.
3. Vegetables: A side of steamed or roasted broccoli or bok choy pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the Bang Bang sauce.

How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

• With Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice are excellent options for soaking up the extra sauce.
• On a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve over a fresh Asian-inspired salad with cucumbers, carrots, and a sesame dressing.
• In Wraps: Shred the chicken and serve it in lettuce wraps or tortillas with some extra sauce for a fun, hand-held option.

Presentation Ideas for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

• Serve in a Skillet: Keep it rustic by serving the chicken straight from the skillet for a casual, yet appealing presentation.
• Layered Dish: Place the chicken over a bed of rice or noodles and drizzle the remaining sauce on top. Garnish with chopped green onions and a lime wedge on the side.

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe Tips

1. Don’t skimp on the sauce: The sauce is the star of this dish, so feel free to double the recipe if you love it extra saucy.
2. Prep ahead: You can make the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Keep the chicken juicy: Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer. Chicken thighs are forgiving, but it’s always better to be safe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce up to 3 days in advance. You can also pre-sear the chicken and reheat it in the skillet before serving. Just be sure to add the sauce right before serving for the best flavor.

Can I freeze the chicken?

Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken thighs without the sauce. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and toss it in freshly made Bang Bang sauce.

What can I substitute for sriracha?

You can substitute sriracha with any other hot sauce of your choice or reduce the amount for a milder sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

The dish has a moderate level of spice, thanks to the sriracha. You can adjust the spice level by using less sriracha or substituting with a milder hot sauce.

Conclusion

This Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, spicy, and slightly sweet dish in under 30 minutes. The combination of juicy chicken thighs and the creamy, zesty Bang Bang sauce makes it a hit for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. With easy-to-follow steps, customizable options, and delicious results, you'll want to make this recipe again and again. Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!

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