Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a flavor-packed dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. With juicy chicken thighs seared to perfection, Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs bring a satisfying mix of heat and creaminess thanks to the signature bang bang sauce. The sauce is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy, which coats the chicken beautifully. Best of all, Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are quick and easy to prepare, making them an ideal option for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Spicy and Creamy: The bang bang sauce brings a perfect balance of spice and creaminess, making each bite irresistible.
- Juicy Chicken Thighs: Using chicken thighs ensures you get tender, juicy meat that soaks up the sauce.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe, as they stay juicy and flavorful.
- Seasoning Mix: A simple combination of kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika adds subtle depth to the chicken.
- Vegetable Oil: For searing the chicken to crispy perfection.
- Bang Bang Sauce: A creamy, slightly spicy homemade sauce that’s key to the recipe’s signature flavor.
- Green Onions: For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
How to Make Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Season the Chicken: Mix salt, pepper, and paprika, and apply evenly to both sides of the chicken thighs.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes. Flip and cook another 5 minutes on medium-low heat until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make the Sauce: Remove the chicken from the skillet and tent with foil to keep warm. Add the bang bang sauce to the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits and simmering for a minute.
- Coat the Chicken: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet isn’t large enough to hold all the chicken thighs without overlapping, cook them in batches to ensure even searing.
- Internal Temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Helpful Tips
- Bang Bang Sauce: You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week, saving time when cooking the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad to create a well-rounded meal.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free Option
Notes
- For more heat, add extra chili sauce to the bang bang sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs, though they may be slightly less juicy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 336
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this with chicken breasts?
Yes! Chicken breasts can be used, but they might be less juicy than thighs. Just ensure they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F.
Is this dish spicy?
The bang bang sauce has a mild spice, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more chili sauce or red pepper flakes to your taste.
Can I use store-bought bang bang sauce?
Absolutely! While homemade sauce offers the freshest flavor, store-bought versions work well for convenience.
Storage Instructions
- Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet until warmed through.
- Freezer: This dish can also be frozen, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw and reheat as desired.
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Conclusion
Skillet bang bang chicken thighs are a quick and flavorful meal that combines a rich, creamy sauce with juicy, tender chicken. Whether you’re feeding the family or just need a tasty weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try, and soon, it’ll become one of your favorite go-to dishes!
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Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Description
If you’re craving something with a kick, skillet bang bang chicken thighs are here to save the day. These juicy, flavorful chicken thighs are coated in a creamy, slightly spicy bang bang sauce that’s a blend of sweet heat and rich flavors. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish brings a punch of flavor while staying simple to make.
Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe, as they stay juicy and flavorful.
- Seasoning Mix: A simple combination of kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika adds subtle depth to the chicken.
- Vegetable Oil: For searing the chicken to crispy perfection.
- Bang Bang Sauce: A creamy, slightly spicy homemade sauce that’s key to the recipe’s signature flavor.
- Green Onions: For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Mix salt, pepper, and paprika, and apply evenly to both sides of the chicken thighs.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes. Flip and cook another 5 minutes on medium-low heat until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Make the Sauce: Remove the chicken from the skillet and tent with foil to keep warm. Add the bang bang sauce to the same skillet, scraping up any browned bits and simmering for a minute.
- Coat the Chicken: Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- For more heat, add extra chili sauce to the bang bang sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Chicken breasts can be substituted for thighs, though they may be slightly less juicy.