Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a delightful remedy for those busy weeknight dinners or even a satisfying meal for a cozy weekend gathering. Imagine tender chicken thighs bathed in a creamy, spicy sauce that balances heat with a touch of sweetness. This recipe embodies everything we love about quick and delicious home-cooked meals — it’s easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and is utterly satisfying.
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe isn’t just about flavor; it’s about convenience and versatility. Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs come together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute dinner decision. The ingredients are easy to find and budget-friendly, meaning you won’t have to go out of your way to create something special. It’s great for families—kids love the creamy sauce, and adults can enjoy the delightful heat that comes from the sriracha.
“This dish has become a regular in our dinner rotation! The sauce is so good that I find myself using it on everything!” – A happy home cook
How to make Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Creating Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is incredibly straightforward. You’ll first heat your skillet and get your oil hot, providing the perfect base for crispy chicken. While that’s happening, seasoning the chicken thighs is key to building flavor—you don’t want to overlook this step! As the chicken cooks to golden perfection, you can whisk together the silky sauce that brings everything together. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to be served.
What you’ll need
To whip up this mouthwatering dish, gather these items:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
These ingredients work beautifully together, but feel free to swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist!
Directions to follow
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for deep flavor.
- Add the thighs to the skillet carefully, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is cooking, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a pinch of salt in a bowl to create your sauce.
- Once the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature, remove it from the skillet and coat it generously with the prepared sauce.
- Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs, the possibilities are endless! This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a crunchy Asian slaw. You could also toss in some roasted veggies for a wholesome balance. For a fun twist, serve it in lettuce wraps for a fresh, low-carb alternative!
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which can be tempting!), storing them safely is a breeze. Place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate; it should last up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the skillet over low heat or use the microwave until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
For optimal results, ensure that your chicken thighs are at room temperature before seasoning. This helps them cook evenly. Also, using a meat thermometer can take away the guesswork—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. If you like your sauce spicier, don’t hesitate to increase the sriracha!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Add different ingredients to really make this dish your own! Try adding a splash of lime juice for a zesty twist or some chopped fresh herbs like cilantro to enhance the flavor. You can even experiment with different proteins, like shrimp or tofu, for a delectable variation.
Common questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time slightly as chicken breasts may cook quicker.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of sriracha or even add some red pepper flakes to amp up the heat.
How can I store leftovers?
Simply transfer cooled chicken to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture.
With its delectable flavors and ease of preparation, Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal, this recipe is bound to impress!
PrintSkillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Tender chicken thighs in a creamy, spicy sauce that balances heat with sweetness, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken thighs generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add the thighs to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken is cooking, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a pinch of salt in a bowl to create your sauce.
- Once the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature, remove it from the skillet and coat it generously with the prepared sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Notes
For a healthier twist, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. Pair with steamed rice, slaw, or serve in lettuce wraps.