If you’re on the hunt for a chicken dish that delivers big on flavor and is ready in a flash, look no further than Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs! This recipe is for anyone who craves a juicy, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Picture this: tender, succu chicken thighs are tossed in a spicy, creamy sauce that makes your taste buds —and it all happens in one skillet!
What’s the story behind “Bang Bang”? Legend has it that it’s a nod to the explosive flavors packed into this dish, and once you’ve tasted it, you’ll understand why! It’s a dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends when you want something impressive yet effortless. If you love our other chicken recipes, like our Lemony Garlic Herb Chicken, you’ll find this dish a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. So, grab your skillet and get ready for a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
What is Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?
So, what’s in a name, you ask? “Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs” is a playful moniker that hints at the boldness of this dish! But why “Bang Bang”? Some say it’s because the flavor hits you like a food explosion, while others believe it’s reminiscent of the sound you make when you devour this mouthwatering dish. Who doesn’t love a meal that’s as fun to say as it is to eat? And as they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!” So whether you have a family to impress or are just treating yourself, this dish is sure to woo anyone who digs into it. Why not give it a try?
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
This particular chicken recipe is a true winner, and here are three reasons why it will become your new favorite:
- Bold Flavors: The highlight of this dish is the irresistible bang bang sauce—a creamy blend of chili sauce and mayonnaise that coats the chicken perfectly, creating a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
- Budget-Friendly: Making Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs at home is not only delicious but also a cost-saving strategy. With affordable ingredients and minimal prep, you can serve up a gourmet meal without breaking the bank.
- Versatile Toppings: The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Depending on your preference, you can dress it up with fresh herbs, sliced green onions, or crunchy veggies for an added texture twist. Looking for more chicken goodness? Check out our Spicy Garlic Chicken recipe for another tasty option!
Feeling inspired? Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Quick Overview
The simplicity of Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs makes it perfect for any home cook, regardless of experience! This dish not only packs a flavor punch but also takes roughly 30 minutes from prep to plate. With just one skillet involved, cleanup is a breeze!
Key Ingredients for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Green onions, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels to ensure they get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken thighs and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they reach a golden-brown color and are cooked through.
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, in a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha (if using), and lime juice until smooth.
- Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside briefly. Pour the bang bang sauce into the skillet, stirring to combine the flavors left in the pan. Return the chicken to the skillet and coat each piece generously with the sauce.
- Serve: Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
What to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs With
This dish pairs beautifully with many sides! Try serving with fluffy jasmine rice for a satisfying meal. For a fresh crunch, a simple cucumber and tomato salad would complement the creaminess of the bang bang sauce. Or, if you want to keep things classic, some roasted vegetables on the side will do just fine.
Top Tips for Perfecting Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
- Choose Quality Chicken: Always select high-quality, fresh chicken thighs for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If spice isn’t your thing, feel free to leave out the sriracha. The sweet chili sauce alone packs enough flavor to excite your taste buds.
- Don’t Rush the Sear: Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken, as this will help achieve a nice crust while keeping the meat juicy inside.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store any uneaten chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken, which will keep its flavor for about 3 months.
When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to help loosen the sauce, or pop it in the microwave for a quick fix. You’ll have those bold flavors back in no time.
Now that you know how to make Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotations. Happy cooking!
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs, boneless and skinless Choose high-quality, fresh chicken for best results.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil For cooking the chicken.
- Salt and pepper, to taste For seasoning.
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce Main ingredient for the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha Optional, for added heat.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Garnish
- Green onions, for garnish Optional, for serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels to ensure they get a nice sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken thighs and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they reach a golden-brown color and are cooked through.
Sauce Preparation
- While the chicken is cooking, in a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha (if using), and lime juice until smooth.
Coating and Serving
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside briefly. Pour the bang bang sauce into the skillet, stirring to combine the flavors left in the pan.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat each piece generously with the sauce.
- Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
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