Short introduction
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a mouthwatering dish that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. This flavorful recipe features juicy chicken thighs coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that packs a punch. It’s a delightful combination of textures and tastes in one skillet. Not only is it satisfying to eat, but it can also be whipped up in about 30 minutes.
Why you’ll love it
You’ll absolutely love Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs because they are not only tasty but also incredibly simple to make. The chicken thighs remain juicy and tender, while the sauce balances sweetness and heat. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it uses just a handful of everyday ingredients, making it accessible for anyone to recreate.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Green onions for garnish
Substitutions & key variations
You can easily customize this dish based on your preferences. If you don’t have mayonnaise, Greek yogurt can be a great alternative for a healthier option. For those who prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of sriracha or substitute it with a mild hot sauce. You can also switch chicken thighs for chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Prepare the sauce
In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and minced garlic. Stir well until all ingredients are combined into a smooth sauce.
Step 2: Season the chicken
Take the chicken thighs and season them with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best flavor.
Step 3: Cook the chicken
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Coat with sauce
Once the chicken thighs are cooked, lower the heat and pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cook for an additional minute to warm the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
Remove the chicken from the skillet and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot for best flavor.
Success tips
- Temperature: Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear.
- Texture: Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can make the chicken steam instead of brown.
- Common mistakes: Don’t skip seasoning the chicken. Well-seasoned chicken enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
How to serve
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs can be enjoyed on their own or served over a bed of rice or alongside steamed vegetables. You could also pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal. The creamy sauce complements many sides, making it a versatile dish.
Storage & reheating
Store any leftover Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or you can use a microwave for convenience. Just be careful not to overheat, as it may dry out the chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.
Q2: How spicy is this dish?
A: The spiciness mainly comes from the sriracha. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha or skip it altogether.
Q3: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes! The combination of sweet chili sauce and mayonnaise balances the spice, making it generally appealing to kids.
Q4: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the chicken when you’re ready to serve.
Q5: What can I do with leftovers?
A: Leftover chicken can be sliced and used in wraps, salads, or bowls for a quick meal.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This dish is packed with protein thanks to the chicken thighs, and the combination of sauce ingredients provides a unique flavor without being overly unhealthy. Each serving offers a satisfying meal that can easily be balanced with healthy sides like veggies or whole grains.
Conclusion + CTA
In just about 30 minutes, you can prepare these delicious Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs that your family will love. The perfect blend of spice and creaminess will make this dish a favorite in your home. Try it out today and enjoy a quick and flavorful dinner!
Links to related recipes
- Sweet Chili Chicken Stir-Fry
- Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
- Creamy Garlic Mushroom Chicken
- Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs Can be substituted with chicken breasts.
- ½ cup mayonnaise Can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha Adjust for a milder flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- to taste salt and pepper Important for enhancing flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking the chicken.
- green onions for garnish To be chopped for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and minced garlic. Stir well until all ingredients are combined into a smooth sauce.
- Take the chicken thighs and season them with salt and pepper. Make sure to coat them evenly for the best flavor.
Cooking
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Once the chicken thighs are cooked, lower the heat and pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Cook for an additional minute to warm the sauce.
Serving
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot for best flavor.