Description
A fast and flavorful weeknight dinner featuring crispy, panko-crusted chicken thighs tossed in a creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy families and picky eaters.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, whisked with a splash of milk or water
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying (enough for 1/2 inch depth in skillet)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
- 1–2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Pat chicken cubes dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving space between cubes.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with egg wash, and one with panko.
- Dip each skewer in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in egg wash, and finally press firmly into panko to coat evenly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry skewers in batches (do not overcrowd) for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While chicken cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder to make the sauce.
- Toss hot fried skewers in the bang bang sauce or drizzle sauce over them.
- Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Notes
For a healthier option, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Ensure chicken is dry before breading to prevent sticking. Do not overcrowd the pan to maintain crispiness. Leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to restore crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 skewers per serv
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 20
Keywords: bang bang chicken, chicken skewers, quick dinner, weeknight meals, crispy chicken, spicy sauce, family friendly, 20 minute meals