These Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are full of flavor and super easy to make. With tender chicken and a spicy yet sweet sauce, it’s a dish that will get your taste buds dancing!
Honestly, who can resist that crispy skin and tasty sauce? I love to serve it over rice to soak up all the yumminess. It’s a quick dinner that always impresses friends! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find thighs, boneless breasts work too. Just be careful not to overcook them!
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise gives creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds a tangy flavor while still giving that creamy texture.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds a lovely sweetness and slight heat. If you don’t have it on hand, mixing sugar with a bit of vinegar and red pepper flakes can mimic that flavor. Or try an Asian plum sauce for an alternative twist.
Sriracha: A touch of spice! Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance. If Sriracha isn’t available, any hot sauce will work. For a milder option, you can skip it or use a dash of hot paprika.
Green Onions: Fresh green onions add color and crunch. If you need a substitute, chopped chives or shallots can work nicely, too. They give a milder onion flavor.
How Do I Cook Chicken Thighs Perfectly?
Cooking chicken thighs in a skillet is simple and gives them a nice golden outside while keeping them juicy inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by patting the chicken dry. This helps them brown better.
- Season generously with salt and pepper – don’t hold back!
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to sear it.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden color and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before adding the sauce. This keeps it juicy!
Delicious Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
For Serving:
- Cooked rice
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you can enjoy your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs in about 25 minutes. Quick, simple, and absolutely tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by washing your chicken thighs and patting them dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste. This step adds flavor to the chicken!
2. Cook the Chicken Thighs:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less Sriracha, depending on your taste!
4. Coat the Chicken in Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet and pour the Bang Bang sauce over them. Toss the chicken gently to make sure each piece is coated evenly in the delicious sauce. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is warm.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Dish out some cooked rice onto plates and place the Bang Bang Chicken Thighs on top. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro for that extra pop of flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs! Just be aware that they will take longer to cook—approximately 10-12 minutes per side. To ensure they’re fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. It’s best to cover the skillet for part of the cooking to help them cook evenly.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! If you’re out of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or sour cream for a creamier consistency. Both alternatives will still deliver a delicious sauce, maintaining that rich flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftover Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to retain moisture, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like more heat, add an extra tablespoon of Sriracha to the sauce. You could also incorporate red pepper flakes or diced fresh chili peppers into the cooking process for an extra kick. Adjust it to your taste preference for the perfect level of spice!
