If you're looking for a quick, flavorful, and spicy chicken recipe that can be made in under 30 minutes, Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs is the perfect dish. Inspired by the popular Bang Bang sauce that's a sweet and spicy combo of mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, this recipe delivers juicy, pan-seared chicken thighs with a crispy exterior coated in the irresistible sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish, this skillet recipe packs a punch of flavor that everyone will love. Let’s dive into how to make this delectable dish step-by-step!

What Are Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are tender, juicy chicken thighs that are pan-seared to perfection and then coated in a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce known as Bang Bang Sauce. This sauce is a combination of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice, creating the perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and spicy. The chicken thighs are cooked in a skillet, giving them a beautifully crispy exterior while staying juicy inside. This recipe is a fantastic fusion of American and Asian-inspired flavors and is incredibly simple to prepare.
Ingredients List for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
To make this easy and flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (1.5 pounds) – Juicy and flavorful cuts of chicken.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp) – For pan-searing the chicken.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp) – For seasoning the chicken.
- Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds color and a mild smoky flavor.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Basic seasonings for flavor.
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Mayonnaise (½ cup) – The creamy base of the sauce.
- Sweet chili sauce (¼ cup) – Adds sweetness and a mild heat.
- Sriracha (1-2 tbsp, depending on spice preference) – For that signature kick.
- Lime juice (1 tbsp) – Brightens the sauce with acidity and tang.
- Honey (1 tsp, optional) – For added sweetness (optional if you want to balance the spice).
Optional Ingredients for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
If you want to tweak the recipe to add more complexity or balance the spice, here are some optional ingredients you can consider:
- Red pepper flakes (¼ tsp) – For an extra layer of heat.
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish) – Adds freshness and a bright, herbal note.
- Scallions (sliced, for garnish) – Adds a nice crunch and mild onion flavor.
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish) – For a nutty, crunchy topping.
Substitutions and Variations
Want to personalize your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs? Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Chicken Breasts: You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Make sure to pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Greek Yogurt: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check the sweet chili sauce and sriracha to ensure they are gluten-free brands.
- Air Fryer Method: For a healthier version, you can cook the chicken thighs in an air fryer instead of pan-searing them. Set your air fryer to 375°F and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create perfectly cooked Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs:
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve a crispy exterior when pan-searing. Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking. A properly heated skillet ensures a good sear on the chicken thighs.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in the skillet, smooth side down, and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is resting, make the Bang Bang Sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and optional honey until smooth and well-combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the heat level by adding more sriracha or a bit of honey to balance the spiciness.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken
Once the sauce is ready, return the chicken thighs to the skillet. Drizzle or brush the Bang Bang Sauce over the chicken thighs, making sure each piece is well-coated. Alternatively, you can toss the chicken directly in the sauce if you prefer a more thorough coating.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the chicken hot, garnished with optional fresh cilantro, scallions, and toasted sesame seeds. The fresh garnishes add a vibrant pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy chicken.
How to Cook Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a quick recap of how to make this flavorful dish:
- Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the chicken thighs in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden and fully cooked.
- Mix the Bang Bang Sauce using mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice.
- Coat the chicken with the sauce, either by drizzling or tossing it in the skillet.
- Garnish and serve with fresh herbs and sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While this recipe is simple, here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcrowding the pan: If you put too many chicken thighs in the skillet at once, they will steam instead of sear, which leads to soggy chicken. Cook in batches if needed.
- Not drying the chicken: Patting the chicken thighs dry before seasoning and cooking is essential to achieving a crisp exterior.
- Undercooking or overcooking the chicken: Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying it out.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Make your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs meal even more enjoyable by paying attention to how you serve and present it.
How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
- With rice or quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa to soak up the extra sauce.
- With vegetables: Pair the chicken with sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy for a well-balanced meal.
- In a wrap or taco: Dice the chicken and serve it in a tortilla wrap or taco shell with some slaw and extra Bang Bang Sauce for a fusion twist.
Presentation Ideas for Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs
- Garnish generously: Sprinkle fresh cilantro, sliced scallions, and toasted sesame seeds over the chicken for a colorful and fresh presentation.
- Serve family-style: Place the chicken thighs on a large platter, drizzled with Bang Bang Sauce, and serve with bowls of rice and sides for a beautiful, communal meal.
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe Tips
- Adjust the spice level: Customize the spice level by adding more or less sriracha. If you're serving kids or guests who prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount of sriracha and sweet chili sauce.
- Double the sauce: If you love extra sauce, double the Bang Bang Sauce ingredients and serve some on the side as a dipping sauce.
- Meal prep-friendly: Make a larger batch and store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Absolutely! Bake the chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I make Bang Bang Chicken in the air fryer?
Yes, you can air fry the chicken at 375°F for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What can I use instead of sriracha?
You can substitute sriracha with hot sauce or a mix of chili paste and vinegar for a similar level of heat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Re
heat in the oven or microwave and drizzle with extra sauce before serving.
Conclusion
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a delicious, quick, and spicy meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. The juicy chicken thighs are seared to perfection and coated in a creamy, tangy, and spicy Bang Bang Sauce that’s sure to impress. Whether you serve it with rice, veggies, or on its own, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!
PrintSkillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs offer juicy, pan-seared chicken coated in a sweet, tangy, and mildly spicy sauce. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners while delivering restaurant-quality flavors. The combination of crispy chicken and creamy bang bang sauce makes it an irresistible dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and simple preparation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Fusion, Asian-inspired
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
Instructions
- Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-6 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5-6 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar to make the bang bang sauce.
- Remove chicken from the skillet and drizzle or brush with bang bang sauce. Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the amount of Sriracha.
- Garnish with green onions or cilantro for added freshness.
- Serve with rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh with sauce
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
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