Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

Get ready to fall in love at first bite with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers! This dish delivers tender, juicy chicken on a stick, slathered in a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce that’s simply addictive. It’s one of those recipes that’s outrageously easy, goes from kitchen to table in no time, and brings big, bold flavors everyone will rave about. Whether you’re firing up the air fryer for a weeknight treat or looking to impress at your next get-together, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are your ticket to instant crowd-pleaser status.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll only need a handful of pantry staples and fresh chicken to make these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers sing. Each ingredient plays a starring role, adding irresistible layers of flavor, creamy richness, or a pop of color. Here’s what goes into this mouthwatering dish and why it matters:

• wooden skewers: Soaking them prevents splintering and scorching, keeping your chicken perfectly in place during cooking.
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Perfect for juicy, quick-cooking bites that hold onto seasonings and the luscious sauce.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps coat each piece for seasoning to stick.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Infuses the chicken with gentle warmth and delivers a gorgeous, appetizing color.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings mellow garlicky depth that complements the sweet heat of the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors and keeping the chicken juicy.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little bite and balances the sweetness in the sauce.
• 1 ¼ cups (290 g) mayonnaise: The creamy base of the signature Bang Bang sauce—smooth and rich!
• ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce: Lends that sweet, sticky, garlicky chili goodness that will have you licking your fingers.
• 2 teaspoons Sriracha (or more to taste): For just the right kick of garlicky heat—adjust for your preferred spice level.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Adds a floral sweetness to balance heat and acidity, giving the sauce its craveable finish.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep the Skewers and Chicken

Start by soaking your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes—this simple trick keeps them from burning or falling apart during cooking. Meanwhile, cut the chicken breasts into even 1-inch cubes. Consistent sizing ensures fast, even cooking, while prepping skewers ahead of time means you can zip through assembly without pausing to untangle or re-cut.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine your chicken cubes with extra virgin olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Toss everything together with clean hands or a spatula until each piece is evenly coated. This blend guarantees every bite is bursting with savory, gently spicy flavor even before the sauce comes into play.

Step 3: Thread the Skewers

Working one at a time, carefully thread 4-5 chicken cubes onto each soaked skewer. Leave just a little space between pieces to help the air circulate for crispier edges and uniform cooking. Don’t pack them too tightly—more exposure to heat equals more juicy, golden-brown perfection!

Step 4: Whisk Up the Bang Bang Sauce

Now, here’s where the real magic happens! In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until smooth—you want a sauce that’s creamy with a glossy, almost irresistible sheen. This is your Bang Bang secret sauce that sets these chicken skewers apart from anything else in your recipe box.

Step 5: Divide and Brush the Sauce

Pour half of your freshly made Bang Bang sauce into a separate bowl and set aside for post-cooking drizzling (no cross-contamination here!). Use the remaining sauce to generously brush all over the skewered chicken. Make sure every surface gets coated for maximum flavor payoff once they hit the heat.

Step 6: Air Fry the Skewers

Arrange the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in a single layer in your air fryer basket—you may need to work in batches so nothing overlaps. Air fry at 400°F for 11 to 12 minutes, flipping each skewer halfway through for even browning. When the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, you know it’s juicy, perfectly cooked, and ready to shine.

Step 7: Sauce and Serve

Transfer your hot, crispy skewers to a platter and drizzle (or brush) them with the reserved Bang Bang sauce. Serve immediately for the ultimate contrast of creamy, spicy, tangy sauce meeting piping hot, succulent chicken. This moment is what Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are all about!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

For a burst of freshness, sprinkle your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or toasted sesame seeds just before serving. A squeeze of fresh lime over the top can add a bright, zesty note that cuts through the rich sauce, making every bite pop!

Side Dishes

These skewers pair beautifully with a whole spread of sides. Think sticky jasmine rice or fluffy coconut rice to soak up all that extra sauce. Crispy Asian slaw or quick-pickled veggies make the perfect tangy, crunchy counterpoint, while simple grilled veggies or a cucumber salad offer cooling balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Lay your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers on a platter over a bed of greens for a stunning, party-ready presentation. Stack them tall in a mason jar or a pint glass for fun, grab-and-go snacking at gatherings. Or, for something different, tuck the skewers onto sliders or rice bowls for a playful, build-your-own dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Bang Bang Chicken Skewers left (they disappear fast!), cool them completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep extra sauce in a separate sealed jar and give it a quick stir before using again.

Freezing

Freezing is easy—just wrap the cooked, cooled skewers individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to two months for best flavor and texture. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Always store sauce separately (refrigerated, not frozen) for the freshest taste.

Reheating

To reheat Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, pop them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes or until hot and lightly crispy. The microwave works in a pinch, but for best results and to keep the edges crisp, use the air fryer or oven. Be sure to add the reserved Bang Bang sauce after reheating for fresh, creamy flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are wonderfully juicy and flavorful for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Just follow the same instructions and check for doneness, as thighs might be a touch fattier and even more tender.

Is there a good substitute for Thai sweet chili sauce?

If you can’t find Thai sweet chili sauce, try mixing equal parts honey and sriracha with a splash of rice vinegar and a pinch of red pepper flakes. It won’t be exact, but you’ll capture that sticky, sweet-heat vibe Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are known for.

How spicy is the sauce, and can I tone it down?

The classic Bang Bang sauce has a moderate kick from Sriracha, but you’re always in control. Add less Sriracha for a milder version or ramp it up for heat-lovers. Taste as you mix so it’s perfect for your palate.

Can I grill these instead of using an air fryer?

Definitely! Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, basting with the Bang Bang sauce as you go. They’ll get gorgeous char marks and a hint of smoky flavor from the grill—just as irresistible.

Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers gluten-free?

They can be! Check that your Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and mayonnaise are certified gluten-free. Most brands are, but it’s always smart to double-check the labels if you or your guests are avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy, electrifyingly delicious, and sure to disappear at any table, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the answer. I can’t wait for you to fall for their bold flavors and repeat-worthy ease. Gather your ingredients and give this crowd-pleaser a spin—your next dinner win is just a skewer away!

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