Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you’re searching for a showstopping, mouthwatering dish that comes together in minutes, let me introduce you to Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. These juicy cubes of chicken are tossed in a lively blend of spices, skewered, and air-fried (or oven-baked) to golden perfection, then lavishly brushed with a creamy, sweet-spicy homemade bang bang sauce. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers at your next party or as an easy weeknight main, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers promise a deliciously unforgettable bite, every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is all about simple ingredients that pack a punch! Each element brings something special to the table, from the tender chicken to the bold, irresistible bang bang sauce. Here’s how to make every ingredient count:

• Wooden skewers: Remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes, so they don’t burn during cooking—this step ensures perfectly charred chicken, not skewers!
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 pounds): Lean and juicy, they soak up the marinade beautifully and provide that satisfying bite in every skewer.
• Extra virgin olive oil (1 tablespoon): This helps the seasonings cling to the chicken and keeps everything moist as it cooks.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds warm color and a subtle smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Brings depth and that essential garlicky kick, making every bite sing.
• Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Just the right amount to enhance all the flavors without overpowering them.
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon): A little spice goes a long way—this adds gentle heat and earthiness.
• Mayonnaise (1 ¼ cups): This forms the silky base for the bang bang sauce—rich and creamy, but never overpowering.
• Thai sweet chili sauce (⅔ cup): Sweet, tangy, and a touch spicy, creating complexity and balance in the sauce.
• Sriracha (2 teaspoons, or more): Customize the heat to your liking—start small and add more if you like it spicy!
• Honey (2 tablespoons): The final glossy touch; honey’s sweetness pulls all the sauce elements together.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Add your cubed chicken breasts to a large bowl. Drizzle on the olive oil, then sprinkle in the paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until each piece is evenly coated. This step builds those crave-worthy flavors that make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers absolutely irresistible.

Step 2: Thread onto Skewers

Working one at a time, thread four or five pieces of seasoned chicken onto each wooden skewer. A little space between the chicken cubes is ideal—that way, they cook evenly and get those coveted caramelized edges. Feel free to get the whole family involved in this fun step!

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until completely smooth. This glorious bang bang sauce coats each skewer in sweet, spicy, tangy flavor and transforms the ordinary into extraordinary. Reserve half the sauce for serving—trust me, you’ll want extra!

Step 4: Brush and Cook

Pour half the prepared sauce into a new bowl to use after cooking. Use the remaining sauce to generously brush over each chicken skewer, coating every surface. Lay the skewers in your air fryer basket in a single layer, cooking at 400°F for 11 to 12 minutes and turning halfway through. Each piece should be golden and juicy, with an internal temperature of 165°F. If using the oven or grill, see the notes below for alternative methods.

Step 5: Sauce and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked and gloriously caramelized, remove the skewers to a serving platter. Drizzle or brush with the reserved bang bang sauce while they’re still piping hot. Each bite of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers bursts with explosive flavor—time to dig in!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

A handful of thinly sliced green onions, a shower of toasted sesame seeds, or even a squeeze of fresh lime are fantastic ways to add color and crunch. Each garnish not only looks vibrant but brings a complementary note to the sweet and spicy profile of the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers love some company on the plate! Pair them with steamed jasmine rice, crunchy Asian slaw, cucumber salad, or even simply roasted vegetables. These sides cool things down and soak up any extra sauce, rounding out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try standing the skewers upright in a mason jar, arranging them in a skillet for a rustic look, or piling high on a platter with dipping sauce in the center. The vivid colors and glossy sauce make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers the centerpiece of any party spread—and kids love them too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce keeps everything moist and flavorful, so they’re just as delicious the next day—perfect for easy lunches or snacks!

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the seasoned, uncooked chicken cubes (without sauce) in a zip-top bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then thread onto skewers and proceed with the recipe. Cooked skewers can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze them without the sauce to preserve texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the skewers on a baking sheet and pop into a 350°F oven or air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. Add a fresh drizzle of Bang Bang sauce before serving to revive that irresistible creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be even juicier and a bit richer in flavor. Just cut them into cubes, follow the same process, and enjoy an extra-tender bite in your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.

How spicy are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Thanks to sriracha and sweet chili sauce, these pack a gentle punch, but aren’t overwhelming. If you love heat, simply add more sriracha to taste—start with the base amount and adjust from there until you find your perfect level of spice.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers without an air fryer?

Definitely! You can bake them in a preheated 400°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or grill over medium-high heat for around 8 to 10 minutes per side. Both methods give delicious results—just remember to brush with sauce after cooking!

Is it possible to make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to a week, sealed tightly. You can even double the batch and use leftovers as a dip for fries, shrimp, or veggies—it’s wildly versatile!

What should I do if my skewers don’t fit in the air fryer?

If your skewers are too long, you can trim them with kitchen shears, or simply arrange the chicken cubes without skewers in the basket. Either way, you’ll end up with flavorful, saucy morsels ready for the table.

Final Thoughts

I truly can’t wait for you to experience how fun and flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are to make and share. They’re perfect for lively gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something bold but super easy. Give them a try, and don’t be surprised if you end up adding these skewers to your regular rotation—they always disappear fast!

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