Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

Craving something packed with bold flavors, a hint of sweetness, and just the right amount of spice? Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are your answer. This dish brings the iconic sweet-and-spicy "bang bang" sauce together with tender, juicy chicken thighs, cooked to perfection in a skillet for a quick and easy meal. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive in and see how you can create this lip-smacking dish right at home!

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What are Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs take inspiration from the popular "bang bang" sauce, which is known for its balanced combination of creamy, spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Traditionally served with shrimp in many Asian fusion restaurants, this recipe adapts the sauce to succulent chicken thighs that are pan-seared in a skillet until the skin is crispy and golden brown. The result? Juicy chicken infused with a mouthwatering glaze that will have you licking your fingers clean. This dish pairs perfectly with rice, vegetables, or even a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

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Ingredients List for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Let’s start with gathering all the ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful recipe. Simple pantry staples come together to create a dish that’s full of bold, exciting flavors.

For the Chicken:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – Bone-in thighs provide more flavor and juiciness, while the skin crisps up beautifully in the skillet.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For searing the chicken to a perfect golden crisp.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a layer of savory depth to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic powder with a subtle, sweet flavor.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a smoky undertone to the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning the chicken before cooking.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce – Adds sweetness and a touch of tang.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha – For that signature spicy kick.
• 1 tablespoon honey – Balances the heat with some sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar – Adds a subtle tang and helps to brighten up the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a bit more savory depth to the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon soy sauce (optional) – Adds umami and saltiness.

For Garnish (optional but recommended):

• Chopped green onions – For a pop of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor.
• Sesame seeds – For added texture and a nutty note.

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Substitutions and Variations

Don’t have all the ingredients on hand, or looking to tweak the recipe? Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can make to tailor this dish to your preferences:

• Chicken options: You can substitute bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as boneless cuts may cook faster.
• Mayonnaise alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt or light sour cream for the mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce.
• Spice level: You can adjust the heat of the bang bang sauce by increasing or decreasing the amount of sriracha. For extra heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Soy-free option: If you prefer a soy-free version, you can omit the soy sauce in the bang bang sauce or replace it with coconut aminos.
• Different proteins: Want to switch it up? This recipe works beautifully with shrimp, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make perfectly crispy, flavorful skillet bang bang chicken thighs. The secret to this dish is all in the technique—crispy chicken paired with the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce.

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up when cooking. Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat the Skillet

In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works best), heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.

3. Cook the Chicken

Flip the chicken thighs over and reduce the heat to medium. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If using boneless chicken thighs or breasts, adjust the cooking time as needed.

4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the bang bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and soy sauce (if using). Taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary—add more sriracha for heat or more honey for sweetness.

5. Coat the Chicken with Sauce

Once the chicken thighs are fully cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. Generously brush or drizzle the bang bang sauce over the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the creamy, spicy sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve

For the final touch, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the chicken thighs. Serve the skillet bang bang chicken hot with your choice of sides—rice, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad make excellent accompaniments.

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

Here’s a quick recap of how to achieve the perfect skillet bang bang chicken thighs:

1. Dry and season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry for crispy skin and season generously.
2. Sear in a hot skillet: Sear skin-side down for a golden, crispy crust.
3. Cook through and cover: Flip and cook the chicken covered until done, adjusting the time based on whether you’re using bone-in or boneless thighs.
4. Make the sauce: Whisk the bang bang sauce ingredients together while the chicken is cooking.
5. Brush with sauce: Coat the crispy chicken thighs with the creamy, spicy sauce.
6. Garnish and serve: Top with green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this dish is simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your chicken thighs turn out perfect:

• Not drying the chicken properly: Wet chicken skin will steam instead of sear, preventing it from getting that desirable crispy texture.
• Crowding the pan: Give the chicken enough space to sear properly. If your skillet is too small, fry the chicken in batches.
• Not using a hot skillet: A hot skillet is essential to getting the skin crispy. Make sure the oil is shimmering before adding the chicken.
• Under-seasoning the chicken: Be generous with seasoning, as chicken thighs have a rich flavor that stands up to bold seasonings.
• Overcooking the sauce: Bang bang sauce is a no-cook sauce. Be sure to whisk it together at room temperature rather than heating it.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Skillet bang bang chicken thighs are delicious and satisfying on their own, but pairing them with the right sides and presentation can elevate the meal even further. Here’s how to serve and present this dish like a pro:

• Serve with rice: The bang bang sauce pairs beautifully with jasmine rice or basmati rice, soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh vegetables: Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
• Asian-inspired slaw: A fresh cabbage slaw with a sesame or lime dressing adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.

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How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

For the best presentation and experience, here are a few ideas for serving skillet bang bang chicken thighs:

• Plated beautifully: Serve the chicken thighs over a bed of rice with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced, colorful plate.
• Family-style: Place the chicken thighs in a large serving dish, drizzle with extra bang bang sauce, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Let everyone serve themselves.
• Appetizer style: Cut the chicken into smaller pieces and serve as an appetizer with toothpicks and extra bang bang sauce on the side for dipping.

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Presentation Ideas for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Take your presentation up a notch with these creative ideas:

• Cast-iron charm: Serve the chicken directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation that adds to the appeal.
• Garnish generously: Use plenty of chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and even a drizzle of extra sriracha for a vibrant, professional-looking plate.
• Color contrast: Pair the chicken with bright vegetables like steamed broccoli, carrots, or a side salad for a striking color contrast that looks as good as it tastes.

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Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe Tips

To make sure your skillet bang bang chicken thighs turn out amazing every time, follow these expert tips:

• Use a cast-iron skillet: Cast iron retains heat well and helps achieve the perfect crispy skin on the chicken.
• Adjust spice level: Taste the bang bang sauce as you go, adjusting the amount of sriracha or chili sauce to match your heat preference.
• Let the chicken rest: Allow the chicken thighs to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking before brushing with the sauce to ensure the skin stays crispy.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe with boneless chicken thighs?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just reduce the cooking time since they’ll cook faster than bone-in thighs.

Q: How spicy is the bang bang sauce?
A: The spiciness can be adjusted to your preference. Reduce or increase the sriracha for a milder or spicier sauce.

Q: Can I use the oven instead of a skillet?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken thighs at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes (or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F), then brush with the bang bang sauce afterward.

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Conclusion

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a quick, easy, and flavor-packed dish that brings together crispy, juicy chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce. It’s a fantastic option for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can make this restaurant-quality dish at home. Follow the tips and variations to make it your own, and enjoy the irresistible flavor of bang bang chicken tonight! Happy cooking!

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