Ah, the humble chicken thigh—often overlooked, yet so full of potential, like a hidden gem in your weekly meal rotation. These Easy Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a revelation, a bit like discovering that your favorite band has a surprise album out. The spicy-sweet glaze will have you coming back for seconds, maybe even thirds, and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this delightful chaos on your plate.
Steps
- Mix together salt, black pepper, and paprika in a small bowl. Evenly coat the chicken thighs with this seasoning blend.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs, cooking for about 5 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm by tenting with foil.
- Pour the Bang Bang sauce into the same skillet, stirring well to incorporate any browned bits from the bottom. Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the sauce.
- Garnish the dish with chopped green onions before serving.
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought bang bang sauce
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish
FAQ
- Can I substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs in this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs. Just ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- How long does the homemade Bang Bang sauce last?
- The homemade Bang Bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir it before use.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?
- Popular side dishes include wedge salad, roasted vegetables, steamed rice, garlic knots, coleslaw, cauliflower mashed, air fryer sweet potato fries, German cucumber salad, and corn on the cob.
- How should I store leftover Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs?
- Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Can I make this recipe spicier?
- Yes, if you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the spice level in the Bang Bang sauce to suit your taste.
Tips
- Prepare the Sauce in Advance: To save time on cooking day, prepare the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will keep for up to a week. Stir before using to ensure it’s well mixed.
- Ensure Proper Chicken Cooking: Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s cooked thoroughly. This is crucial whether using chicken thighs or substituting with chicken breasts.
- Scrape the Pan for Extra Flavor: After cooking the chicken, stir the Bang Bang sauce in the skillet while scraping up the brown bits from the bottom. This will incorporate more flavor into the sauce.
- Storage and Reheating Tips: Let the chicken cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be stored for 3-4 days and reheated in the microwave or in a skillet on the stovetop for best results.
Equipment
- Large Nonstick Skillet
- Meat Thermometer (to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F)
- Airtight Containers (for storing leftover sauce or chicken)
