Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

Say hello to your new weeknight dinner obsession: Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs! This dish transforms juicy, tender chicken thighs into something completely crave-worthy by searing them to golden perfection and tossing them in a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, spice up meal prep, or just enjoy a quick, deeply flavorful meal at home, this recipe brings big flavor with minimal effort and delivers a pop of color that brightens any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs such a standout dish is its short list of kitchen staples—each ingredient has its own delicious role to play. No fancy grocery runs here; just a handful of essentials that come together for explosive flavor and irresistible texture.

• Chicken thighs: Juicy, boneless, and skinless—these are the heart of the dish, promising tenderness in every bite.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and ensures the seasoning penetrates deeply.
• Black pepper: Offers a warm, subtle heat and balances the brightness of the sauce.
• Paprika: Adds a pop of color and a hint of smoky sweetness, making each bite extra savory.
• Vegetable oil: Perfect for searing chicken and helping it develop that irresistible, golden-brown crust.
• Bang Bang sauce: The star of the show—creamy, spicy, and sweet; you can use homemade or your favorite store-bought version.
• Green onions: Sprinkle on at the end for a burst of fresh, zesty flavor and a vibrant garnish.

How to Make Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Make the Seasoning Mix

Start by gathering kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika. In a small bowl, combine these three spices. It’s a simple but potent blend that not only injects flavor but helps create that irresistible crust you’ll love on chicken thighs.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Thighs

Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel for better searing. Evenly sprinkle your seasoning mix on both sides, pressing it in gently so every inch gets covered. This ensures each bite of the Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is perfectly flavored from edge to edge.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once shimmering, add the chicken thighs in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Let them cook undisturbed for 5 minutes—they’ll develop a crisp, golden crust. Flip them over, lower the heat to medium-low, and continue to cook for another 5 minutes (or until a thermometer reads 165°F). Adjust the timing if your chicken thighs are especially thick or thin.

Step 4: Remove and Rest the Chicken

Transfer your beautifully seared chicken thighs to a plate and tent loosely with foil. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs moist and flavorful. Plus, it gives you a clear skillet for the next step!

Step 5: Simmer the Bang Bang Sauce

Lower the heat slightly and pour the Bang Bang sauce into your skillet. Be sure to scrape up those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom—the sauce will pick up all their smoky, salty goodness. Let the sauce heat and bubble gently for 1–2 minutes, until it thickens slightly.

Step 6: Coat the Chicken in Sauce

Slide the chicken thighs back into the sauce, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated in that luscious, spicy, creamy Bang Bang magic. Turn the thighs so every side gets covered, then simmer everything together for another minute so the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Top your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs with a flurry of chopped green onions to add freshness and color. Now, all that’s left is to serve and enjoy the bold symphony of flavors you’ve just created!

How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Garnishes

The right garnish turns a simple dinner into a restaurant-style experience! Generously sprinkle chopped green onions for fresh crunch and a pretty color contrast. If you’re feeling fancy, toasted sesame seeds or a scattering of cilantro will add extra flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs pair perfectly with steamed jasmine rice, fluffy quinoa, or a bed of buttery mashed potatoes to soak up all that tasty sauce. On the lighter side, serve with a crisp, tangy slaw or roasted vegetables to balance the richness and add vibrant texture to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For party-worthy flair, slice the chicken and pile it into lettuce wraps, or serve on top of a big salad with extra sauce drizzled over. Tuck leftovers into sliders or tacos for an unexpected twist—there’s really no wrong way to spotlight this superstar chicken.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got extras? Store cooled Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce soaks into the chicken overnight, making leftovers even more flavorful and ready to brighten up lunch boxes or speedy dinners.

Freezing

To freeze, let the chicken thighs cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, ideally with some sauce to keep things moist. The dish will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

For the juiciest result, reheat the chicken slowly on the stovetop over low heat, spooning sauce over the top to keep it moist. Alternatively, a gentle warm-up in the microwave (covered, at 50 percent power) also works great. Add a splash of water or extra Bang Bang sauce if things look a bit dry.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be swapped in if you prefer them, though they may cook a bit faster and could be less juicy than thighs. Just keep a close eye on the cooking time to prevent drying out.

What exactly is Bang Bang sauce?

Bang Bang sauce is a creamy, tangy, and spicy blend typically made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a dash of hot sauce or Sriracha. It brings a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and umami to the dish, making Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs sing with flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level really depends on the Bang Bang sauce you use. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a mild chili sauce, taste as you go, and feel free to adjust by adding more or less Sriracha to suit your preference.

Can I prepare Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, making Bang Bang sauce in advance is a great time saver! Whisk it together and store in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s ready to use whenever you want to whip up Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs in a flash.

Is this recipe gluten free?

As long as your Bang Bang sauce and all seasoning ingredients are certified gluten free, this dish can easily be gluten free! Always check your labels, especially on bottled or store-bought sauces.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are bound to become a regular rotation in your kitchen. They pack so much flavor, come together quickly, and always get the table buzzing. Give them a try and get ready to fall in love with how easy and delicious homemade can truly be!

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