Description
Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender boneless skinless chicken thighs seasoned with a blend of salt, pepper, and paprika, pan-seared to perfection, and coated in a spicy, creamy bang bang sauce. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and serves six people with a delightful balance of savory, spicy, and creamy flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 recipe bang bang sauce or 1 cup storebought bang bang sauce
Garnish
- Green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Combine seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika to create the seasoning blend for the chicken.
- Season chicken: Evenly apply the seasoning mixture over all sides of the boneless skinless chicken thighs to ensure balanced flavor.
- Heat oil and cook chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs. Depending on skillet size, cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Sear first side: Cook the chicken thighs for 5 minutes on the first side, allowing a golden crust to form.
- Cook second side: Flip the chicken thighs and reduce heat to medium-low. Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Remove chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken thighs to a plate and tent with foil to keep them warm while you prepare the sauce.
- Add bang bang sauce: Pour the bang bang sauce into the same skillet. Stir, scraping the bottom to loosen any browned bits. Let the sauce simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until thoroughly heated.
- Coat chicken in sauce: Return the chicken thighs back to the skillet and toss them in the sauce to coat them evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the chicken thighs for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- If cooking in batches, keep cooked chicken warm in a low oven while finishing others.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For a lighter dish, use olive oil instead of vegetable oil if preferred.
- Homemade bang bang sauce typically includes mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha for a balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy.
- This recipe pairs well with steamed rice or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American