Juicy Sweet-Spicy Chicken Skewers

This Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewer recipe has completely changed my weeknight dinner game with its irresistible sweet-spicy flavor profile and quick preparation time. The combination of juicy chicken thighs and that addictive sauce creates a restaurant-quality dish that looks impressive but requires minimal effort.

I first made these skewers when hosting an impromptu dinner party and needed something quick that would still wow my guests. Everyone requested the recipe before the night was over and now it's in regular rotation at our house.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: offer more flavor and moisture than breast meat and are more forgiving when cooking
• Olive oil: helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken and prevents sticking
• Paprika: adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color to the chicken
• Garlic powder: infuses the chicken with aromatic flavor without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
• Salt and pepper: are essential for bringing out the chicken's natural flavors
• Mayonnaise: creates the creamy base for the Bang Bang sauce giving it richness and body
• Sweet chili sauce: provides both sweetness and a mild heat that defines Bang Bang sauce
• Hot sauce: allows you to customize the spice level to your preference
• Honey: balances the heat with natural sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize slightly
• Additional salt: in the sauce enhances all the flavors and brings everything together

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken:

Cut boneless skinless chicken thighs into uniform 1inch cubes ensuring they will cook evenly. Make sure to trim any excess fat but leave some for flavor and juiciness.

Season the chicken:

Combine the chicken with olive oil and all the dry seasonings in a large bowl. Use your hands to massage the seasonings into the meat ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. This step builds the foundation of flavor that complements the sauce later.

Make the Bang Bang sauce:

Whisk together mayonnaise sweet chili sauce hot sauce honey and salt until completely smooth. The sauce should have a pale orange color and silky consistency. Set aside about half for serving and use the remainder for cooking.

Skewer the chicken:

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers leaving small gaps between each piece. This allows the hot air to circulate around each piece of chicken resulting in even cooking and slight caramelization on all sides.

Sauce and preheat:

Brush the chicken generously with Bang Bang sauce before cooking. This initial layer will create a delicious sticky glaze as it cooks. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for optimal cooking temperature.

Air fry to perfection:

Cook the skewers for 12 to 15 minutes flipping halfway through cooking time. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have slightly crispy edges with caramelized sauce.

Final saucing:

Once cooked brush the hot skewers with another generous layer of Bang Bang sauce. This double saucing technique creates incredible depth of flavor and ensures maximum sauce coverage.

Serve immediately:

Arrange on a platter with extra sauce for dipping and optional garnishes like fresh herbs or sesame seeds for a professional presentation.

Save

The sweet chili sauce is my absolute favorite component in this recipe. I discovered it years ago while traveling through Thailand and have been incorporating it into my cooking ever since. The balance of sweet and spicy elements creates that addictive quality that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Make It Keto

For keto dieters these skewers can be easily adapted without sacrificing flavor. Simply swap the regular sweet chili sauce for a low carb version substitute sugar free honey and ensure your hot sauce has no added sugars. The result is just as delicious but with significantly fewer carbs perfect for maintaining ketosis while enjoying bold flavors.

Meal Prep Magic

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are exceptional for meal prep. You can prepare them completely including cooking then refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat simply place in the air fryer for 3 to 4 minutes at 350°F until warmed through. The sauce actually develops even more flavor after a day in the refrigerator making leftovers something to look forward to.

Serving Suggestions

While these skewers are delicious on their own they pair beautifully with several sides. Try serving them over cauliflower rice for a complete low carb meal alongside a simple cucumber salad for freshness or with stir fried vegetables that can be tossed in extra Bang Bang sauce. For a fun presentation serve them standing upright in a tall glass with the sauce in a small bowl alongside.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for thighs. Keep in mind that breast meat is leaner and cooks faster, so you may need to reduce the cooking time by 2-3 minutes to prevent drying out. For best results, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ How do I make this recipe keto-friendly?

To make these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers keto-friendly, use full-fat mayo, low-carb sweet chili sauce, keto-friendly hot sauce, and sugar-free honey substitute. These simple swaps maintain the delicious flavor profile while keeping the carb count low.

→ Can I make these skewers without an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can cook these skewers on a grill over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, bake them in a conventional oven at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through cooking time.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

While the recipe suggests at least 30 minutes of marination, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for more intense flavor. Just be sure to keep it properly refrigerated in an airtight container or covered bowl.

→ What sides pair well with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair beautifully with steamed rice, Asian slaw, or a simple cucumber salad. For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice or a mixed green salad. The extra bang bang sauce makes an excellent dressing or dip for vegetables on the side.

→ Can I prepare the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This is a great time-saving tip if you're planning to serve these skewers for a gathering or busy weeknight dinner.