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Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs Recipe

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs feature tender, juicy boneless chicken thighs seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices, seared to perfection in a skillet, and coated in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that delivers bold flavors and satisfying texture.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

  • 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Sauce:

  • 1 recipe bang bang sauce, or 1 cup storebought bang bang sauce

Garnish:

  • Green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika. Evenly apply this seasoning mixture to all sides of the six boneless, skinless chicken thighs to ensure balanced flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken thighs in a single layer. If your skillet is small, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Cook the chicken thighs for 5 minutes on one side without moving them, then flip each piece over. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
  4. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the skillet and place them on a plate. Tent the plate loosely with foil to keep the chicken warm while you prepare the sauce.
  5. Prepare the Sauce: Pour your bang bang sauce into the same skillet. Stir the sauce, scraping up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.
  6. Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet, turning them to coat each piece thoroughly with the warm bang bang sauce.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top as a fresh garnish. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • If using thicker chicken thighs, increase cooking time slightly to ensure full doneness.
  • You can make the bang bang sauce from scratch or use a store-bought version for convenience.
  • Serve with steamed rice or a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Ensure your skillet is large enough to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent proper searing.