Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a flavorful, quick, and easy-to-make dish that packs a spicy-sweet punch. If you’re a fan of bold flavors but want a meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for you. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just yourself, the combination of juicy chicken thighs with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce will surely impress. Keep reading to discover how you can make this mouthwatering dish at home!

What Makes This Recipe Special?

This Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe stands out for a few key reasons:

1. Quick Cooking Time: With just 10 minutes of cooking, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
2. Minimal Ingredients: You only need a few pantry staples and a delicious bang bang sauce.
3. Incredible Flavor: The bang bang sauce brings a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and creaminess that pairs wonderfully with chicken thighs.
4. Versatility: You can easily modify this recipe with different seasonings or sauces to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

To make this delicious recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs – Chicken thighs provide juiciness and rich flavor. If preferred, you can use bone-in chicken, but cooking time will increase.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds mild heat to the seasoning.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – Paprika offers subtle sweetness and deepens the color of the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, for frying.
• 1 recipe bang bang sauce (or 1 cup store-bought) – This creamy, spicy sauce is the star of the dish. (You can make it at home by mixing mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a touch of honey.)
• Green onions (chopped, for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chicken Thighs

Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken thighs:

1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika. Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy exterior when cooked. Then, rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken thigh.
2. Heat the Skillet: In a large nonstick skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches if your skillet is small.
3. Cook the Chicken: Let the chicken cook undisturbed for 5 minutes, allowing it to develop a golden-brown crust. Then, flip each thigh, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
4. Remove and Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and place them on a plate. Tent the plate with aluminum foil to keep the chicken warm while you prepare the sauce.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the bang bang sauce. Stir well, making sure to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
6. Combine the Chicken and Sauce: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, coating each one generously with the bang bang sauce. Cook for another minute to let the flavors meld.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat, garnish the chicken with chopped green onions, and serve immediately.

How to Make the Best Bang Bang Sauce

To make bang bang sauce at home, you only need a few simple ingredients:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)

Simply whisk these ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if you prefer a spicier sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overcrowding the Skillet: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to crowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary, as overcrowding can prevent the chicken from browning properly.
2. Not Patting the Chicken Dry: Moisture on the chicken skin can interfere with getting a crispy sear, so always pat the chicken dry before seasoning.
3. Not Using a Meat Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

For a stunning presentation, serve the Bang Bang Chicken Thighs over a bed of jasmine rice or fluffy mashed potatoes. You can also pair it with a light side salad or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a complete meal.

To elevate the look of your dish:

• Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh burst of color.
• Serve on a decorative platter for a more refined presentation.
• Add lemon wedges around the edges for extra visual appeal and flavor.

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Variations

Feel free to modify this recipe to suit your taste:

• Spicy Bang Bang Chicken: Add red pepper flakes to the seasoning for extra heat, or double the sriracha in the sauce.
• Bang Bang Shrimp: Substitute the chicken with shrimp for a seafood version of this dish.
• Lighter Version: Swap the mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce with Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier twist.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Here are the basic kitchen tools you’ll need for this recipe:

• Large nonstick skillet
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs or spatula
• Small mixing bowls
• Whisk (for making the sauce)

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, you can store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm the chicken in the skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or microwave until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken when reheating, as it can become dry.

Freezing Option

You can also freeze the cooked chicken without the sauce for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat in the skillet, and then add fresh bang bang sauce.

Bang Bang Chicken FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts can dry out more easily. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meat remains juicy.

What can I use if I don’t have a nonstick skillet?
A cast iron skillet is a great alternative, as it can develop a beautiful sear on the chicken.

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! Simply reduce or omit the sriracha in the bang bang sauce.

conclusion

These Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a surefire way to impress your family or guests with minimal effort. The balance of crispy, juicy chicken and the creamy, spicy sauce makes it a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the explosion of flavors! If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and subscribe to the blog for more delicious meals.

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