Skillet Bang Bang Chicken Thighs

Ingredients

• 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs (Use bone-in thighs or chicken breasts if preferred; cooking time will vary. Trimmed edible weight estimated at about 900 g.)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (For cooking the chicken.)
• 1 recipe bang bang sauce (Use one recipe of homemade bang bang sauce, or 1 cup store-bought sauce. Nutrition is estimated for a mayonnaise-based sweet-and-spicy sauce.)
• green onions (Chopped, for garnish; amount to taste.)

Steps

1. 1

   In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, and paprika thoroughly to make the seasoning mixture.

2. 2

   Pat the chicken thighs dry if needed, then apply the seasoning mixture evenly to both sides of the chicken.

3. 3

   Place a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Heat until the oil is hot and shimmering.

4. 4

   Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Depending on the size of the skillet, work in batches so the chicken is not crowded.

5. 5

   Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on the first side, without moving it unnecessarily, until browned.

6. 6

   Flip the chicken thighs, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for about 5 minutes more, or until the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary with the size and type of chicken used.

7. 7

   Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Tent loosely with foil to keep it warm.

8. 8

   Pour the bang bang sauce into the skillet. Stir while scraping up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

9. 9

   Let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes, just until heated through. Avoid overheating, which may cause a creamy sauce to break.

10. 10

    Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and turn them in the sauce until each piece is evenly coated.

11. 11

    Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

The source recommends ensuring all chicken reaches 165°F. Bone-in thighs and chicken breasts may be substituted, but their cooking times will differ. Leftover chicken may be served over jasmine or brown rice with vegetables, as suggested by reader comments.

Nutrition per serving

• main dish
• chicken
• skillet
• quick dinner
• under 30 minutes
• spicy
• saucy