Description
If you’re craving a bold, flavorful meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying, these Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are the answer. Inspired by the famous Bang Bang sauce known for its sweet, spicy, and creamy profile, this dish takes juicy chicken thighs and infuses them with an irresistible blend of flavors. The chicken is pan-seared to perfection, delivering a crispy, golden-brown exterior while remaining tender and juicy inside. This recipe brings restaurant-quality taste to your home kitchen with minimal ingredients and effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impressive dinner gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Thighs:
- 4–6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup cornstarch (for dredging)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for desired spice level)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge each thigh in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. This light coating will create a crispy exterior when cooked.
- Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and fully cooked inside (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, mix all sauce ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Adjust the sriracha and honey to taste for your preferred balance of spice and sweetness.
- Coat the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, reduce the skillet to medium heat. Pour the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken and gently toss to coat each thigh evenly. Allow the sauce to warm for a minute or two, letting it cling to the chicken thighs.
- Serve: Transfer the chicken thighs to a serving plate and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro, if desired. Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10mins
- Cook Time: 20mins