Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

If you’re a fan of delicious, easy-to-make meals that pack a punch, then this Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is the perfect dish for you. This recipe takes tender chicken thighs, sears them to perfection, and coats them with a creamy, spicy, and sweet Bang Bang sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish will surely impress. Read on to discover the full recipe, along with tips and tricks to elevate your culinary game.

this Recipe

What Are Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a quick and flavorful dish made with tender, juicy chicken thighs cooked in a skillet and then smothered in Bang Bang sauce. Bang Bang sauce is a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. The chicken thighs are first seared in the skillet to develop a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside moist and juicy. The combination of crispy chicken and creamy, spicy sauce makes this dish irresistible.

This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to spice up their regular chicken meals with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Ingredients List for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

For this flavorful dish, you'll need a few basic ingredients that are easy to find and simple to prepare. Here's what you'll need to make Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs:

For the Chicken:

• 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional for extra flavor)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 2–3 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for tanginess)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon lime juice (optional for added zest)

For Garnish (optional but recommended):

• Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is its flexibility. There are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to cater to your preferences or to what’s available in your pantry.

• Chicken Cuts: If you don’t have chicken thighs, you can use chicken breasts, drumsticks, or even chicken tenders. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary slightly depending on the cut.
• Spice Level: For a milder sauce, reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit it altogether. For those who love spice, feel free to add more Sriracha or even sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
• Sauce Alternatives: If you're not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier, lighter version.
• Sweetness: Add honey or maple syrup to the sauce if you prefer a sweeter taste, or omit it entirely for a more balanced flavor.
• Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the chili sauce and Sriracha you’re using are certified gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these steps to create perfect Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps remove excess moisture, which will allow the chicken to sear properly and develop a crispy crust. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin (if using).

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until it’s shimmering but not smoking.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Carefully place the chicken thighs into the skillet, skin side down if they have skin. Sear them for 5-7 minutes, or until they develop a deep golden-brown color. Flip the chicken thighs and cook the other side for another 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken thighs are cooked, return them to the skillet and pour the Bang Bang sauce over the top. Toss the chicken in the sauce to ensure each piece is fully coated. Allow the sauce to simmer with the chicken for 2-3 minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the finished dish with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides!

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

Cooking Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is quick and easy if you follow the steps mentioned above. Here’s a simplified guide:

1. Season the Chicken: Use a mix of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and other spices to season the chicken thighs.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet, then sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides.
3. Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha to create the Bang Bang sauce.
4. Combine: Once the chicken is cooked, coat it in the sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
5. Garnish and Serve: Top with your favorite garnishes and serve!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly every time, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcrowding the Skillet: Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. If the pan is too full, the chicken will steam instead of sear, which prevents it from developing a crispy exterior.
• Not Drying the Chicken: Patting the chicken thighs dry before cooking is crucial for achieving a good sear.
• Cooking at Too Low a Heat: The skillet needs to be hot enough to sear the chicken properly. If the heat is too low, the chicken will cook slowly and won’t develop that delicious crust.
• Not Adjusting the Sauce: Taste your Bang Bang sauce as you make it! Adjust the spice and sweetness levels to match your preference.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving a dish as flavorful as Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs. Here are a few tips to make your dish shine on the plate:

• Garnish Generously: Use fresh cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds to add pops of color and texture.
• Plate with Sides: Serve the chicken with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Use a Large Platter: Present the chicken on a large platter with the sauce drizzled over the top and garnishes scattered around for a restaurant-style look.

How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can serve them in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion and your preferences:

• With Rice: Steamed white or brown rice makes a great base for soaking up the extra sauce.
• On a Bed of Greens: Serve the chicken over a bed of fresh greens or with a side of roasted vegetables for a low-carb meal.
• In Wraps or Tacos: Turn the chicken thighs into a filling for wraps or tacos by adding some slaw and extra sauce.
• With Noodles: Serve with a side of noodles for an Asian-inspired twist.

Presentation Ideas for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

To elevate the presentation of your dish, consider these ideas:

• Serve on a Wooden Board: Place the chicken thighs on a wooden cutting board with small bowls of extra Bang Bang sauce on the side.
• Use Colorful Plates: Bright plates contrast nicely with the golden-brown chicken and vibrant garnishes.
• Family-Style Presentation: Serve the dish family-style with a large platter in the middle of the table, allowing guests to help themselves.

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe Tips

To ensure you get the best results, here are some additional tips for making Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lime, and cilantro add a burst of flavor to the dish. If possible, use fresh ingredients instead of dried or bottled versions.
• Don’t Skip the Garnish: Garnishes like cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds add flavor and visual appeal to the dish.
• Adjust the Heat: Always taste your sauce and adjust the Sriracha level according to your spice tolerance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken breasts may cook faster.

2. How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The heat level of the sauce depends on how much Sriracha you add. You can make it as mild or spicy as you like.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the chicken is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken and toss in the sauce just before serving.

4. Can I grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?

Absolutely! Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the Bang Bang sauce. Just cook the chicken on a preheated grill until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Conclusion

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are the perfect way to bring bold flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. The crispy chicken thighs paired with the creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet Bang Bang sauce make for an unforgettable meal. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or cooking for your family, this dish is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and don't forget to experiment with your own variations to make it your own!

Print