Are you ready for a meal that’s going to make your taste buds sing and your belly dance? Look no further than Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs! This dish is all about succulent chicken, enveloped in a creamy and spicy sauce that’s simply bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners, it’s both quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Did you know that the term “bang bang” actually hints at the dish’s spiciness? You might be curious about its origins; this dish is believed to be inspired by the popular Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer. The key to its appeal is the balance of creamy and zesty flavors, making it a wow-worthy addition to your dinner rotation. Plus, it’s an incredibly family-friendly meal, ensuring everyone at your table will leave satisfied. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into this fantastic recipe and get your cooking adventure started!
What is Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?
So, what’s in a name, right? Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs—now that’s a mouthful! One might wonder if it’s named after the sound a skillet makes when it heats up or if the flavors of this dish are just so exciting it needs a drumroll! It’s often said, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish might very well prove that point. After all, it features tender chicken thighs coated in a delectable sauce that packs a punch, making it hard to resist.
Curious about the origins of the “bang bang”? Legend has it that the name comes from the way the dish features both a kick of heat and a creamy finish. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that will surely impress, so gather your ingredients and try your hand at this fun dish!
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
There are countless reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs. Firstly, the highlight is undoubtedly the flavorful sauce, which combines mayonnaise, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce to create an irresistible creamy mixture that clings to the chicken. Secondly, making this dish at home saves money while indulging your cravings—not to mention, you control the ingredients! Finally, the variety of toppings you can add, like scallions and sesame seeds, elevate the dish’s presentation and taste.
If you enjoy this recipe, you may also want to check out my Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken. That dish shares the same comforting vibes of succulent chicken, but with a different flair. Both are family favorites and fantastic weeknight meals. Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Make Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Quick Overview
Making Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is both easy and satisfying. With a preparation time of around 10 minutes and cooking time of 20 minutes, you can have a flavorful meal on the table in just under 30 minutes. The combination of juicy chicken thighs and a creamy, zesty sauce makes for a delightful dinner that your whole family will love!
Key Ingredients for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish at home:
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to your taste)
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Make the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, in a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice until smooth.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, lower the heat to medium and pour the sauce over the thighs in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly in the creamy sauce, allowing it to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve and enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Here are some valuable tips to make sure your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a hit:
- Chicken Thigh vs. Breast: While chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, feel free to use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as breasts may take slightly less time to cook.
- Heat Adjustment: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of sriracha sauce in the recipe. You can also increase it for an extra spice kick!
- Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces or add-ins! Consider adding a splash of vinegar for added tang or a little honey for sweetness.
- Cooking Method: If you love a crispy finish, sear the chicken thighs first and then transfer them to the oven to finish cooking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious!), here’s how to store and enjoy them later. Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. The Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help keep the sauce creamy.
With this guide, you’re now well-equipped to make your very own Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs. It’s a meal packed with flavor and quick to prepare, ideal for any night of the week! So roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and enjoy this delightful dish with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
- Salt to taste salt
- Pepper to taste pepper
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce adjust to taste
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Garnish
- as needed Green onions, chopped for garnish
- as needed Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Add the chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip the thighs and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Sauce Preparation
- While the chicken is cooking, in a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice until smooth.
Combine and Serve
- Once the chicken is cooked, lower the heat to medium and pour the sauce over the thighs in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly in the creamy sauce, allowing it to heat through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve and enjoy!
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