Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

Do you want to try something new and exciting for dinner? If you're craving a dish that's packed with flavor, yet easy to make, you've come to the right place. This Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe combines the best of crispy, juicy chicken thighs with a tangy, creamy, and slightly spicy sauce that will leave your taste buds singing. Perfect for weeknight dinners or even a quick meal prep option, this recipe will soon become a household favorite. Read on for all the details, tips, and tricks to create the perfect Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs at home!

What are “Bang Bang Chicken Thighs”?

Bang Bang Chicken is a dish originally inspired by Asian street food, but in recent years, it's been adapted in various creative ways across kitchens worldwide. The term “Bang Bang” refers to the distinctive spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce used in the recipe. This dish typically pairs juicy, pan-seared or oven-baked chicken thighs with this delicious sauce, creating a fantastic balance of texture and flavor. The chicken gets perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy and tender on the inside, and the sauce brings everything together with its creamy yet spicy profile.

The key to a good Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is to strike the right balance between the crispy chicken and the sauce, ensuring you get a flavor-packed bite every time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and how to make this dish from scratch.

Ingredients List for Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

To make this dish, you'll need a handful of pantry staples and some fresh ingredients. Here’s what you'll need for the chicken:

1. Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on or boneless, skinless): 4 to 6 pieces. Chicken thighs are preferred for this recipe because they stay moist and juicy when cooked.
2. All-Purpose Flour: ½ cup, for dredging the chicken to give it a crispy coating.
3. Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons, mixed with flour to create an extra crispy layer.
4. Salt and Pepper: To season the chicken.
5. Paprika: 1 teaspoon, to add a smoky depth of flavor to the chicken coating.
6. Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, to season the chicken.
7. Vegetable Oil: 2-3 tablespoons, for frying the chicken in the skillet.

Ingredients List for Bang Bang Sauce

The sauce is the star of the dish, and these ingredients bring it to life:

1. Mayonnaise: ½ cup, for the creamy base of the sauce.
2. Sriracha: 2-3 tablespoons, for the spicy kick.
3. Honey: 2 tablespoons, to add sweetness and balance the heat.
4. Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon, for tang and acidity.
5. Garlic: 2 cloves, finely minced for extra flavor.
6. Soy Sauce: 1 teaspoon, for umami depth.
7. Lime Juice: Juice of 1 lime, to brighten the flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it can be. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Chicken Breasts: If you prefer chicken breasts over thighs, feel free to swap them. Just be cautious of overcooking, as chicken breasts can dry out faster than thighs.
• Greek Yogurt: You can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the sauce.
• Chili Garlic Sauce: Swap out sriracha with chili garlic sauce if you prefer a more garlicky heat.
• Honey Substitute: Use agave syrup or maple syrup in place of honey if you’re looking for a vegan or alternative sweetener.
• Air Fryer Option: You can also cook the chicken thighs in an air fryer for a healthier, crispier finish without the oil.
• Spiciness Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice tolerance.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it's time to start cooking! Follow these easy steps to make perfectly cooked Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine the flour and cornstarch. Dredge each chicken thigh in the flour mixture, making sure it's evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down (if using skin-on thighs).

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on the first side, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the thighs and cook for another 6-8 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, mix the mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir until well combined and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a serving plate. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken or toss the chicken in the sauce to fully coat it.

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

This Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is designed to be simple, even for beginners in the kitchen. Here’s a quick guide to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly:

1. Use a Heavy Skillet: Cast-iron skillets work best for getting that golden, crispy exterior on the chicken.
2. Watch the Heat: Keep the heat medium-high. Too high, and the chicken may burn before it cooks through. Too low, and it won’t crisp up properly.
3. Check for Doneness: Always check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F for safe eating.
4. Don’t Skip the Rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before coating it in the sauce. This helps the juices settle and keeps the chicken moist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you place too many chicken thighs in the pan at once, the heat will drop, and the chicken won’t crisp up. Cook in batches if needed.
• Using Cold Chicken: Make sure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking. Cold chicken straight from the fridge can cook unevenly.
• Not Drying the Chicken: If you don’t pat the chicken dry, the moisture will prevent it from getting crispy.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and avoid dry, overcooked chicken.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs meal extra special, consider these serving and presentation ideas:

• Serve with Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice pairs well with the Bang Bang sauce.
• Top with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions over the chicken for a burst of freshness.
• Add Vegetables: Serve alongside sautéed or roasted veggies like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers to balance the richness of the dish.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

For a casual meal, simply serve the chicken thighs over a bed of rice or noodles, drizzling extra sauce on top. If you're hosting, plate the chicken thighs individually and garnish with fresh herbs for a more elegant presentation. You can also serve this dish as a part of a larger spread for family-style dining.

Presentation Ideas for Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

• Colorful Garnish: Use fresh lime wedges, cilantro, or red chili slices to add a pop of color.
• Serve in a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you want a rustic presentation, serve the chicken straight from the cast iron skillet on the table.
• Plate Individually: Place one or two chicken thighs on a plate with a side of rice, drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over them, and add a small wedge of lime on the side.

Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe Tips

• Pre-Season the Chicken: Let the chicken sit with the seasoning for at least 10 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate.
• Make the Sauce Ahead: You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days.
• Use a Thermometer: To avoid overcooking or undercooking the chicken, always use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Thighs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat in the oven and add the sauce just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?
A: It’s best to freeze the chicken without the sauce. When ready to serve, thaw the chicken, reheat it, and then add the sauce.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free.

Q: How spicy is Bang Bang sauce?
A: The level of spice can be adjusted. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha or replace it with a milder chili sauce.

Conclusion

With this easy-to-follow Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe, you can bring bold flavors to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. Juicy, crispy chicken combined with a creamy, spicy sauce is the perfect recipe for a weeknight meal or weekend indulgence. The best part? You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Try it out tonight and watch it become a favorite in your household! Happy cooking!

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