Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

Looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that packs a punch? Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is your go-to recipe! This dish combines juicy, tender chicken thighs with a deliciously sweet, spicy, and creamy Bang Bang sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It's a simple, one-pan meal perfect for weeknights or when you're craving something bold. Follow along as we guide you through this easy and mouthwatering recipe that will have your family asking for more!

What Are Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a variation of the popular Bang Bang Chicken, a dish made famous by its addictive sauce. In this recipe, we pan-sear chicken thighs to perfection in a skillet, then coat them in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. The combination of crispy chicken and creamy sauce creates an irresistible balance of textures and flavors.

This recipe takes advantage of the rich, juicy nature of chicken thighs, cooking them in a single skillet for ease and maximum flavor. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients List for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

1. Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs – About 4 to 6 thighs, trimmed of excess fat.
2. Salt and Pepper – To season the chicken thighs.
3. Paprika – Adds a slight smoky flavor to the chicken.
4. Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall savory flavor.
5. Olive Oil – For searing the chicken in the skillet.
6. Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the Bang Bang sauce.
7. Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds sweetness and a bit of heat to the sauce.
8. Sriracha – Gives the sauce a spicy kick.
9. Honey – Balances out the spice with a touch of sweetness.
10. Rice Vinegar – Adds a bit of tang to brighten the sauce.
11. Green Onions – For garnish and a fresh pop of flavor.
12. Sesame Seeds – Optional, for garnish and added texture.

Additional Ingredients for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

If you want to add more layers of flavor or texture, consider these additional ingredients:

1. Red Pepper Flakes – If you want to dial up the heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce.
2. Soy Sauce – For a deeper umami flavor, you can add a splash of soy sauce to the sauce mix.
3. Lime Juice – Adds a zesty, citrusy kick to the sauce.
4. Fresh Cilantro – Garnish with cilantro for an added herbal freshness.
5. Coconut Milk – If you prefer a more tropical twist, swap half the mayonnaise with coconut milk in the sauce.
6. Cornstarch – To give the chicken thighs a crispy coating, you can lightly dust them with cornstarch before searing.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences:

1. Chicken Thigh Substitutes – If you don’t have chicken thighs, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even chicken tenders. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since breasts cook faster.
2. Lighten it Up – For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce.
3. Gluten-Free – This dish is naturally gluten-free, but if you’re adding soy sauce, make sure it’s a gluten-free version like tamari.
4. Spice Level – You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of sriracha and sweet chili sauce. Add more sriracha for extra heat or reduce it if you prefer a milder sauce.
5. Vegetarian Version – Replace chicken thighs with tofu or cauliflower florets for a vegetarian-friendly version. Simply sear or roast the tofu or cauliflower before tossing in the Bang Bang sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is super easy and takes only a few steps. Follow this guide for the best results:

1. Season the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear. Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, it’s time to sear the chicken.
3. Sear the Chicken Thighs: Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, smooth side down, and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side. You want the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more sriracha for heat or more honey for sweetness.
5. Coat the Chicken with Sauce: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Drizzle or brush the Bang Bang sauce generously over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite sides!

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

1. Searing the Chicken: The key to perfectly cooked chicken thighs is a good sear. Searing them on medium-high heat locks in the juices while creating a crispy, flavorful crust.
2. Make the Sauce While Cooking: Save time by preparing the Bang Bang sauce while the chicken is cooking in the skillet.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Sauce After Cooking: It’s best to coat the chicken in the sauce after it has finished cooking, as this prevents the sauce from burning in the skillet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Patting the Chicken Dry – If the chicken thighs aren’t dry before searing, they won’t develop a crispy exterior, and you might end up with soggy chicken.
2. Overcrowding the Skillet – Cooking too many chicken thighs at once will lower the skillet’s temperature, causing the chicken to steam rather than sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
3. Using Too Much Sauce While Cooking – Adding the sauce too early can cause it to burn in the pan. Always sauce the chicken after it’s fully cooked.
4. Not Adjusting the Sauce to Taste – The sauce is the star of the dish, so make sure to adjust it to your taste. You can play around with the sweetness, tanginess, and spice levels to create the perfect balance.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to create a complete and visually appealing meal:

1. Serve with Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice will soak up the delicious sauce. Coconut rice or cilantro-lime rice adds a fresh twist.
2. Vegetable Sides: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bok choy work well to balance the richness of the chicken.
3. Salad: A light, crisp salad with a citrus or ginger dressing can cut through the richness of the Bang Bang sauce.
4. Noodles: Serve the chicken thighs over a bed of stir-fried noodles or rice noodles for an Asian-inspired twist.
5. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add some chopped cilantro, green onions, or even Thai basil on top for a burst of fresh flavor and color.

How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

• Plating: Serve the chicken thighs over a bed of rice or noodles, with the Bang Bang sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime juice for added brightness.
• Family Style: Place the cooked chicken thighs on a large platter and pour the Bang Bang sauce over the top. Scatter fresh herbs and sesame seeds over the chicken, and serve with bowls of rice or vegetables on the side for a family-style dinner.
• Meal Prep: This recipe works great for meal prep. Pack the chicken thighs with a side of rice and vegetables in individual containers for a delicious lunch option throughout the week.

Presentation Ideas for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

1. Serve on a Platter: Arrange the chicken thighs on a large serving platter with a drizzle of Bang Bang sauce over the top. Sprinkle sesame seeds and fresh herbs for color.
2. Garnish Thoughtfully: Garnishing with green onions, sesame seeds, and a lime wedge on the side makes the dish look vibrant and adds extra flavor.
3. Layered Bowl: Serve in a bowl over a bed of rice or noodles, with the chicken layered on top and sauce drizzled over. Add some fresh vegetables or a salad on the side for color and texture.

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe Tips

1. Use High-Quality Chicken: Since chicken thighs are the star of this dish, using high-quality, organic chicken will yield the best flavor.
2. Double the Sauce: The Bang Bang sauce is so delicious that you might want extra to serve on the side for dipping!
3. Add a Crunch: For added texture, consider topping the chicken with crispy fried onions or crushed peanuts.
4. Adjust to Taste: Always taste your Bang Bang sauce before serving. Adjust the sweet, spicy, or tangy elements according to your personal preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this with chicken breasts?

Yes! You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but make sure to pound them to an even thickness for even cooking. Adjust the cooking time, as chicken breasts tend to cook faster.

How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The spice level is moderate but can be adjusted based on the amount of sriracha you use. For a milder version, reduce the sriracha, and for extra heat, add more.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken thighs in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can still finish the dish with the Bang Bang sauce after baking.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! You can freeze cooked chicken thighs (without sauce) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before coating with fresh Bang Bang sauce.

Conclusion

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is a perfect weeknight meal that brings bold flavors to the table in under 30 minutes. With tender, crispy chicken thighs smothered in a sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or veggies, you’ll love how simple yet satisfying this recipe is. Give it a try tonight, and prepare to be amazed!

Print