There are few dishes as fun to make and bold to serve as these Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs. Imagine juicy, golden-brown chicken, pan-seared to perfection, all bathed in a creamy, spicy, and sweet bang bang sauce that clings to every bite. This weeknight-friendly recipe is all about big flavor with minimal fuss—you don’t need to be a pro to pull it off, yet it delivers restaurant-level satisfaction. With quick prep and punchy ingredients, Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are destined to become a new family favorite!

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe has a starring role, creating a harmony of taste, texture, and eye-catching color. Simple pantry staples join forces with a bold sauce and a handful of fresh accents to make these Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs sing.

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: The juicy, tender base that soaks up all the flavors; thighs stay moist and flavorful during searing.
Kosher Salt: Seasoning that enhances every bite and balances the spice from the sauce.
Black Pepper: Adds mild heat and subtle complexity right at the start.
Paprika: Lends warmth, color, and just a whisper of smokiness.
Vegetable Oil: Ensures even browning and a crispy surface while keeping things simple.
Bang Bang Sauce: The soul of the dish! Use your favorite storebought version or whip up a homemade batch for extra zing.
Green Onions: A fresh finishing touch that brings pop, crunch, and a little visual pizzazz.

How to Make Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by mixing together your kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika in a small bowl. Sprinkle this blend over both sides of the chicken thighs, making sure each piece gets a generous, even coating. This quick step lays down a peppery, smoky foundation that’ll season every bite from the inside out.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken in the Skillet

Grab your largest nonstick skillet and heat the vegetable oil over medium. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken thighs in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Cook for about 5 minutes on the first side, until a gorgeous golden crust forms. Flip the chicken, lower the heat slightly, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, or until the center reaches 165°F. This ensures perfectly juicy Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs with irresistible crispy edges.

Step 3: Rest and Keep Warm

Once each thigh is cooked through, transfer them to a plate and tent loosely with foil. You want them to rest and stay warm while you give the sauce center stage! This little breather means every drop of juice stays right where it belongs—in the chicken.

Step 4: Simmer the Bang Bang Sauce

With the chicken resting, pour your bang bang sauce directly into the hot skillet. Stir gently and scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan—these add an incredible depth. Simmer for a minute or two until the sauce is hot, silky, and perfectly blended with the pan juices.

Step 5: Coat and Serve

Nestle the chicken thighs back into the skillet, turning each piece to fully coat it in that luscious sauce. Let everything bubble together for just a minute more, then sprinkle with lots of chopped green onions. Your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs are ready for the spotlight!

How to Serve Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Garnishes

A shower of chopped green onions is a must for color and a pop of freshness. For extra flair, try a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a few thin slices of red chili for heat and contrast. These little touches turn your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs into a true showstopper.

Side Dishes

These chicken thighs shine next to simple white rice or fluffy jasmine rice, which soak up any extra bang bang sauce beautifully. For a lighter twist, pair them with a crisp cabbage slaw, roasted broccoli, or sautéed snap peas—the sweet, spicy sauce is delicious with just about anything.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs into sliders by tucking them inside mini buns with pickles and greens for a fun appetizer. Or, chop the thighs and pile them onto a fresh salad for a punchy main. They also make a stellar filling for wraps or tacos with crunchy veggies and a drizzle of extra sauce!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens and the flavors deepen, making leftovers something to look forward to!

Freezing

To freeze, place cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label and date, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating—while the texture changes slightly, the flavors remain vibrant.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce seems too thick. You can also microwave individual portions in a covered dish, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Either way, you’ll recapture that saucy goodness!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While thighs guarantee extra juiciness, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well too—just watch your cooking time and check for doneness, as breasts tend to dry out more quickly.

What exactly is bang bang sauce?

Bang bang sauce is a creamy, spicy, and sweet condiment usually made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and a little sriracha or hot sauce. It’s bold, versatile, and pairs perfectly with these Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level is moderate, thanks to the bang bang sauce’s balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy notes. Feel free to adjust by using extra chili sauce or dialing it back if you prefer things milder.

Can I grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?

You sure can! Grill the seasoned chicken thighs over medium-high heat until cooked through, then toss with bang bang sauce. Grilling adds a subtle smokiness that works beautifully with all the other flavors.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The core ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but it’s important to check your bang bang sauce and seasonings for any hidden gluten if you’re cooking for a sensitive crowd.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs enough—whether you’re cooking for your family, guests, or just yourself, this recipe brings a burst of flavor and a whole lot of excitement to the table. Give it a try and see how quickly it earns a spot in your dinner rotation!