The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you’re searching for a dinner that brings bold flavors and a crowd-pleasing kick, look no further than The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. These irresistible chicken skewers are air-fried to juicy perfection and slathered with a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce that will have you licking your fingers and reaching for seconds. Ready in under half an hour, they’re ideal for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or just when you want to treat yourself to something that tastes straight out of your favorite takeout spot (but way healthier and simpler to make at home).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers lies in the simplicity of their ingredients. Each element works in harmony to create layers of flavor, color, and juicy texture, so don’t skip or skimp—these all matter!

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: These stay juicy and flavorful during air frying—cutting them in 1-inch cubes ensures even cooking.
• Olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick and adds a hint of richness to every bite.
• Paprika: Adds a gentle smokiness and a beautiful color to the chicken.
• Garlic powder: Gives an extra kick of savory flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Salt: Elevates all the other flavors—don’t forget this tiny powerhouse.
• Black pepper: For a bit of warmth and complexity, balancing the sauce’s sweetness.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the Bang Bang sauce, full-fat is best for silky texture.
• Sweet chili sauce: Brings that signature sweet-tangy note you crave in Bang Bang sauce.
• Hot sauce: Use your favorite—and adjust for heat—this is where you set your spice level!
• Honey: Just a touch rounds out the flavors and makes the sauce utterly addictive.

How to Make The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. Keeping them uniform ensures every skewer cooks evenly and you don’t get any dry or undercooked pieces. It’s a small but crucial detail that sets The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers apart.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, toss those chicken cubes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Massage the seasonings in until every piece is coated. Letting the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes isn’t just an idle suggestion—it’s what allows the flavors to penetrate and makes your skewers extra savory and memorable!

Step 3: Mix Up the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is soaking up all that spice, mix up the luscious Bang Bang sauce. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt until fully blended. This concoction is creamy, sweet, spicy, and downright irresistible. Go ahead and taste-test—adjust the hot sauce if you like it super fiery!

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each. Don’t crowd them—good air circulation is key for even cooking in the air fryer. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them beforehand to prevent scorching.

Step 5: Sauce and Air Fry

Brush the skewers with some of that Bang Bang sauce, getting every nook and cranny. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), then arrange the skewers in a single layer. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is beautifully caramelized and has reached 165°F (74°C) internally.

Step 6: Sauce Again and Serve

Right out of the air fryer, brush the skewers generously with more Bang Bang sauce for that saucy, mouthwatering finish. Arrange them on a platter and have extra sauce on the side—you’ll want it for dipping!

How to Serve The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sesame seeds not only looks gorgeous but also adds a fresh pop and a subtle nutty crunch. A finishing flourish is never just for show—it makes The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers feel special!

Side Dishes

These skewers pair fantastically with fluffy white rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even a bright Asian-inspired slaw. Want a true feast? Try them with grilled veggies or a cool cucumber salad to cut the richness of the sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Beyond serving them on a platter, nestle The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in lettuce cups for handheld bites, or pile the chicken off the skewers onto flatbreads with crunchy veggies and drizzle extra sauce. They also make sensational party appetizers cut into smaller portions for dipping and sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (it’s rare, trust me!), store the cooled chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible, so the coating doesn’t get soggy.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked or uncooked, marinated chicken cubes (without sauce) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking, and mix up a fresh batch of Bang Bang sauce for maximum flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the chicken skewers back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. This preserves the best texture and brings some life back to the saucey coating!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works well; just be extra careful not to overcook, as it tends to dry out faster than thighs. The marinade and sauce will help keep it juicy either way.

Is there a way to make The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers keto-friendly?

Yes! Simply use full-fat mayo, a low-carb sweet chili sauce, sugar-free honey, and a keto-approved hot sauce for a sauce that fits low-carb or keto diets perfectly, without sacrificing flavor.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No problem! You can bake these skewers on a wire rack over a baking sheet at 425°F (218°C) for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway. You’ll still get a wonderful char and juicy chicken.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Definitely! Marinate the chicken and prep the sauce the day before. When it’s party time, just thread and cook the skewers fresh, then brush with sauce and serve immediately for the very best texture and flavor.

How spicy is The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

That’s entirely up to your hot sauce and how much you use! The sweet chili sauce balances out the heat, so start with less and taste the sauce as you go—spice lovers, feel free to crank it up.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about juicy, spicy, saucy chicken on a stick and The Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers absolutely deliver on all fronts. They’re quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests, and bursting with flavor from the first to the last bite. Give these a try—you’ll fall in love at first skewer!

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