Description
If you love bold, spicy, and creamy flavors, this Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. Juicy chicken thighs are seared to perfection in a skillet, then drizzled with a homemade bang bang sauce that’s tangy, slightly spicy, and irresistibly creamy. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
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Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
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1 tbsp cornstarch (for a light crisp coating)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
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¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
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2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
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1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
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1 tbsp honey
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1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
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1 clove garlic, minced (optional for added flavor)
For Garnish & Serving:
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1 tbsp chopped green onions
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1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
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Steamed white or brown rice
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Stir-fried or steamed veggies
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
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Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
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In a bowl, toss chicken with cornstarch, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to evenly coat.
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This light coating helps get a crispy sear in the pan.
Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
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In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, vinegar or lime juice, and garlic (if using).
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Stir until smooth and creamy.
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Taste and adjust heat or sweetness to your liking. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Thighs
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add chicken thighs, smooth side down. Cook for 5–6 minutes without moving them to get a golden crust.
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Flip and cook the other side for another 5–6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Remove from heat and let rest for 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Sauce & Finish
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Spoon or drizzle the bang bang sauce over the chicken while it’s still warm.
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You can also return the chicken to the skillet, pour the sauce in, and toss to coat over low heat.
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Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Step 5: Serve
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Slice the chicken if desired and serve over steamed rice or noodles.
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Add your favorite vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a complete meal.
Notes
Use Boneless Thighs – They cook evenly and stay moist and flavorful.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches if needed to maintain that golden sear.
Adjust the Sauce – Make it spicier with more sriracha, or sweeter with more honey.
Make it Lighter – Swap mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-calorie version.
Make It Crispy – For extra crisp, finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-American Fusion