Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

If you’re looking to impress with minimal fuss, these Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are your new go-to dinner hero. Juicy, golden-brown chicken gets a satisfying crust, then is tossed in a creamy, fiery, just-sweet-enough bang bang sauce that will make you want to lick the skillet clean. This dish dazzles with its Southeast Asian-inspired flavors while staying weekday-friendly — no wonder it’s become a beloved favorite for anyone who tries it!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients pack a major punch in this dish! Each one plays a role in creating that irresistible balance of crispiness, creamy heat, and vivid color that Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are famous for.

• Chicken thighs: Opt for boneless, skinless thighs for truly juicy, flavorful bites that cook evenly in the skillet.
• Cornstarch: Helps give the chicken that craveable golden, crispy coating that holds up to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken so every bite starts out flavorful.
• Olive oil: Just enough oil creates a beautiful sear and keeps the chicken moist.
• Mayonnaise: Forms the luscious, creamy backbone of the bang bang sauce.
• Sriracha: This trusty chili sauce brings gentle heat and that signature bang bang kick.
• Sweet chili sauce: Adds a mild sweetness and touch of tang that mellows the spice out perfectly.
• Honey: Balances the spice and adds a lovely glaze-like sheen to the sauce.
• Lime juice: Gives the sauce a final pop of brightness and zing.
• Green onions (optional): For a fresh, vibrant finish and a little crunch on top.
• Sesame seeds (optional): These add visual pizzazz and subtle nutty flavor for garnish.

How to Make Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with paper towels to help them brown beautifully. Cut each thigh into large bite-sized chunks. Season generously with salt and pepper, then toss them in cornstarch until evenly coated — this step is key for getting that magical crispy outside.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

Whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Taste and tweak the ingredients if you like it spicier or sweeter — the signature flavor of Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is all about that irresistible, balanced sauce.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer (in batches if needed for best browning). Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, turning once, until golden and cooked through. Don’t massage the chicken too much — letting it rest in place helps it crisp up!

Step 4: Toss and Finish

Reduce the heat to low and return all the cooked chicken to the skillet if you worked in batches. Pour that gorgeous bang bang sauce over the chicken, tossing gently until every piece is coated in creamy-spicy bliss. Let it warm briefly, just a minute or so, until the sauce clings well. Your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are ready to shine.

How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Garnishes

To make the dish look as fabulous as it tastes, top your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs with sliced green onions and a scattering of toasted sesame seeds. These simple touches bring extra crunch, color, and a little hint of freshness that makes every serving pop.

Side Dishes

Steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice is a natural companion, soaking up all of that dreamy sauce. Try pairing with quick-roasted broccoli, snap peas, or a zippy Asian slaw for a fresh, vibrant meal. Even simple sautéed greens will round out your bang bang feast perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are just as crowd-pleasing in tacos as they are over rice — pile them into warm tortillas with slaw and extra sauce for a fun twist! Or serve them lettuce-wrap style for a lighter, party-ready option. They’re even fantastic over noodles or in a rice bowl with a soft-boiled egg on top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as tempting!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze your cooked chicken (separate from the sauce, if possible) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. If you freeze coated in sauce, expect a slightly softer texture but the flavor will still be dynamite.

Reheating

Reheat Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring halfway for even warming. Garnish again before serving to restore that just-made sparkle.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful, chicken breast cut into chunks will still deliver great results — just be sure not to overcook so the meat stays tender.

How spicy is this dish?

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are made with sriracha and sweet chili sauce, which give them a gentle, warming heat. If you love spice, add more sriracha or a pinch of crushed red pepper to taste.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce?

Greek yogurt works well for a tangier, lighter sauce, or try sour cream as an alternative. Just know the signature creaminess may be slightly different, but still delicious.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all your sauces (especially the sweet chili sauce) are certified gluten-free. Double-check ingredient labels to be safe.

Can I bake instead of searing in a skillet?

You can! Arrange the coated chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping once. Toss with sauce after baking for a slightly lighter but still crowd-pleasing version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs as I am to share them! This is the kind of dish that transforms any mealtime into something special, whether it’s a weeknight or a gathering with friends. Give it a try, and watch it become a regular request in your kitchen!

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