Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

If you're looking for a mouthwatering chicken dish that's packed with flavor and easy to prepare, this Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is a must-try. Crispy, tender chicken thighs smothered in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a weekend treat, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Keep reading to discover all the secrets to making the best Bang Bang Chicken Thighs and learn useful cooking tips along the way. Let’s dive in!

What are “Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs”?

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a delicious twist on the popular Bang Bang Chicken dish that originates from Asian cuisine. Traditionally, Bang Bang Chicken is served cold, but this recipe uses tender, pan-seared chicken thighs for a warm and hearty version. The star of the dish is the creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce made with a blend of mayonnaise, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce. Cooking the chicken thighs in a skillet gives them a crispy exterior, while the sauce provides the perfect combination of heat and sweetness.

Ingredients List for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Before you start cooking, you’ll need to gather all the ingredients for this flavorful dish. Here’s everything you’ll need for the chicken and the Bang Bang sauce:

For the Chicken Thighs:

• 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicy and tender, perfect for pan-searing.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken in the skillet.
• Salt and pepper: To season the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds an extra layer of flavor to the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a slightly smoky, earthy flavor to the chicken.
• ¼ cup cornstarch or flour: For dredging the chicken to create a crispy crust when seared.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ⅓ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons sriracha: For a kick of heat.
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and balances the heat.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Enhances the sweetness and makes the sauce stick to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the flavors.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're missing an ingredient or looking to switch things up, here are a few substitution and variation ideas for your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs:

1. Chicken Cuts: You can substitute chicken breasts or drumsticks for chicken thighs. Just keep in mind that thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.
2. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha to control the spiciness of the sauce. Add more for an extra kick, or reduce it if you prefer a milder dish.
3. Sauce Base: If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or light mayo for a lighter sauce.
4. Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, use cornstarch instead of flour for dredging the chicken.
5. Vegan Option: You can swap the chicken for tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian or vegan-friendly version, while using vegan mayonnaise in the sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is a simple and straightforward process. Follow these easy steps to get perfectly crispy chicken thighs coated in the delicious Bang Bang sauce.

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the chicken get crispy when seared. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Dredge the Chicken: Lightly coat the chicken thighs in cornstarch or flour. Shake off any excess so that you have a thin, even coating.
3. Heat the Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it's time to add the chicken.
4. Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down if using skin-on thighs. Let the chicken cook for about 5-6 minutes without moving it, allowing it to develop a golden-brown crust. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, honey, and rice vinegar until smooth and creamy.
6. Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken thighs are cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken. Toss the chicken in the sauce, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let the sauce warm up and slightly thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions if desired. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.

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

1. Prepping the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping the chicken thighs. Season the chicken and dredge it lightly in cornstarch or flour. This step ensures a crispy texture when cooked.
2. Searing the Chicken: Heat the oil in a skillet and place the chicken thighs in the pan. Let them sear for several minutes without moving to create a golden, crispy crust. This step locks in the moisture and gives the chicken thighs a beautiful color.
3. Making the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the Bang Bang sauce ingredients. The balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors is what makes this sauce irresistible.
4. Combining the Chicken and Sauce: Once the chicken is fully cooked, toss it in the sauce. This step allows the flavors to meld, giving the chicken a luscious coating of the creamy, spicy sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken thighs. If the pan is too crowded, the chicken will steam instead of searing, and you won’t get that crispy crust.
• Not Drying the Chicken: Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking. Excess moisture will prevent the chicken from getting crispy.
• Using Too Much Sauce: While the sauce is delicious, it’s important not to drown the chicken in it. You want just enough to coat the chicken without making it soggy.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure the chicken doesn't overcook and become dry. Remove it from the skillet as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation matters, especially when serving a delicious dish like Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs. Here are a few tips for making the dish look as good as it tastes:

• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Side Dishes: Serve the chicken with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or a simple salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
• Plating: Arrange the chicken thighs neatly on a plate, drizzle some extra Bang Bang sauce over the top, and finish with a garnish of sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.

How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• Rice: Serve the chicken thighs over a bed of jasmine rice or coconut rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Noodles: For a heartier meal, pair the chicken with stir-fried noodles or lo mein.
• Vegetables: Balance the richness of the chicken with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or bok choy.
• Salad: A fresh, crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the bold flavors of the Bang Bang sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

For a visually stunning dish, consider these presentation ideas:

• Family Style: Serve the chicken straight from the skillet at the center of the table for a rustic, family-style meal.
• Plated: For a more refined presentation, plate each chicken thigh individually with a side of rice and vegetables, then drizzle the sauce artfully over the top.
• Sauce on the Side: Serve extra Bang Bang sauce in a small dipping bowl for guests who want an extra kick of flavor.

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe Tips

• Adjusting the Sauce: Feel free to tweak the proportions of sriracha and sweet chili sauce based on your personal taste preference.
• Batch Cooking: If you're cooking for a crowd, you can double the recipe. Just make sure to cook the chicken thighs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Meal Prep: This dish makes great leftovers. Store the cooked chicken and sauce separately, and reheat the chicken in the skillet before adding the sauce back to preserve its crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can! Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.

Q: How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
A: The spiciness is mild to moderate, depending on the amount of sriracha you use. You can adjust it to your preference.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in a skillet or oven to maintain its crispiness.

Q: Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken thighs, but it's best to make the sauce fresh when serving for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With a crispy exterior and a creamy, spicy sauce, it’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe will quickly become a go-to. Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to grab your skillet and start cooking! Enjoy!

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