If you’re looking for a dish that’s flavorful, easy to cook, and delivers a punch with every bite, then this Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is for you. With tender, juicy chicken thighs seared to perfection in a skillet and topped with a rich, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you're hosting a dinner or just want to try something new, this recipe is a must-try. Read on for the full breakdown of how to make this mouth-watering dish.

What are Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a variation of the popular bang bang chicken dish, where boneless, skinless chicken thighs are cooked in a skillet until crispy, then coated in a spicy, creamy bang bang sauce. The chicken is seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance its flavor, and the bang bang sauce provides the signature combination of heat and sweetness. It's a quick and easy recipe that can be made in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re short on time.
Ingredients List for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
To make the best Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are naturally juicy and flavorful, making them the ideal cut for this recipe.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Helps to season the chicken and enhance the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and complements the other seasonings.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Provides a mild smoky flavor and helps with color.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for cooking the chicken thighs, giving them a crispy outer layer.
- 1 recipe of bang bang sauce, or 1 cup store-bought: You can either use a homemade bang bang sauce (which typically includes mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha) or buy a pre-made version at the store.
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish: Adds freshness and a burst of color when serving.
Ingredients List for Homemade Bang Bang Sauce
If you prefer to make your own bang bang sauce instead of using a store-bought version, here’s what you’ll need:
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce.
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
- 1–2 tablespoons sriracha: For a spicy kick. Adjust based on your heat tolerance.
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional): Balances out the heat with a little sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Adds acidity and brightness.
Simply whisk all these ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth, and you’ll have your homemade bang bang sauce ready to go.
Substitutions and Variations
While the original Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is delicious on its own, you can customize it to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you might consider:
- Chicken Breasts: If you prefer leaner cuts of meat, boneless skinless chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs. Just keep in mind they may cook faster.
- Bone-in Chicken Thighs: For extra flavor, you can use bone-in thighs. Be sure to increase the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked through.
- Low-fat Mayonnaise: If you're looking to cut down on calories, opt for low-fat or light mayonnaise in the sauce.
- Greek Yogurt: Replace the mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce with Greek yogurt for a healthier, tangier option.
- Vegetarian Version: Use tofu or cauliflower instead of chicken for a plant-based version of this dish. Simply season and cook the tofu or cauliflower in the same way, and top with the bang bang sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Cooking Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is straightforward and doesn’t require any advanced kitchen skills. Follow these steps to make the perfect dish:

- Season the chicken: Start by seasoning the boneless, skinless chicken thighs on both sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika. Be sure to coat the thighs evenly for consistent flavor.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, indicating that it's hot enough for searing.
- Sear the chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs in the hot skillet. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until the outside is golden brown and crispy. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked chicken.
- Remove from heat: Once the chicken thighs are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside to rest for a few minutes.
- Add the sauce: Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the cooked chicken thighs, making sure they are well-coated. You can either toss the chicken in the sauce or serve it with the sauce drizzled on top.
- Garnish: Finally, sprinkle chopped green onions over the chicken thighs for added flavor and a pop of color.
How to Cook Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs doesn’t have to be intimidating. Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time:
- Prep Your Ingredients: Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are ready to go. Season the chicken, mix the bang bang sauce, and chop the green onions for garnish.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil. Once hot, sear the chicken thighs on both sides until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) before removing it from the skillet.
- Add Sauce and Serve: After the chicken is done cooking, drizzle it with the bang bang sauce and garnish with green onions. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the skillet: Avoid placing too many chicken thighs in the skillet at once, as this will cause them to steam rather than sear, resulting in less crispy skin.
- Using cold chicken: Let the chicken thighs sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before cooking. Cooking cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking.
- Not checking the internal temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Undercooked chicken is not safe to eat.
- Skipping the resting time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides to complete the meal. Here are some suggestions for serving and presentation:
- Rice: Serve the chicken thighs over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Vegetables: Pair the dish with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables, like broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
- Salad: A light, fresh salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken and sauce.
How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Once your chicken is cooked and coated in bang bang sauce, serve it immediately for the best texture. Plate each chicken thigh on a bed of rice or alongside your chosen side dish. Drizzle extra sauce over the top if desired, and garnish with green onions for a fresh finish.
Presentation Ideas for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
Presentation is key to elevating the dining experience. Here are a few tips to make your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs look as good as they taste:
- Garnish generously: Use plenty of chopped green onions or even cilantro to add a vibrant green contrast to the golden chicken.
- Serve on a platter: Arrange the chicken thighs on a large serving platter, with extra sauce drizzled around the edges for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
- Use colorful plates: Serve the chicken on colorful or patterned plates to make the dish pop visually.
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe Tips
- Use cast iron: A cast-iron skillet retains heat well and gives the chicken a beautiful sear.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it altogether.
- Make ahead: The bang bang sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week, making weeknight prep even easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used as a substitute, but they may cook faster, so be sure to check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
How spicy is bang bang sauce?
Bang bang sauce has a mild to medium level of spiciness, depending on how much sriracha you use. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.
Can I bake the chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet?
Yes, you can bake the chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What can I serve with Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?
This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with noodles for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors that are sure to become a favorite in your household. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, you can create a dish that’s both impressive and delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is a winner. Try it out today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!
PrintSkillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a flavorful dish with boneless skinless thighs seasoned with kosher salt, pepper, and paprika. These juicy thighs are seared to perfection in vegetable oil and topped with a spicy and creamy Bang Bang sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser at gatherings!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American-Asian Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 recipe bang bang sauce, or 1 cup store-bought
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken thighs for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drizzle with Bang Bang sauce and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For extra crispiness, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels before seasoning. You can adjust the spice level of the Bang Bang sauce by adding more or less hot sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
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