Zesty Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

This spicy-sweet Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an irresistible appetizer or main course that disappears fast at any gathering. The combination of juicy chicken pieces with the creamy, spicy sauce creates an addictive flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.

I first made these skewers for a last minute neighborhood barbecue and they were the first dish completely devoured. Now my family requests them at least twice a month, especially when we need a quick but impressive dinner option.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts The perfect protein canvas that cooks quickly and evenly. Look for plump pieces without discoloration.
• Extra virgin olive oil Helps the seasonings adhere while promoting browning. A good quality oil makes a difference here.
• Paprika Adds a smoky undertone and beautiful color. Sweet Hungarian paprika works wonderfully.
• Garlic powder Provides aromatic depth without burning like fresh garlic can. Choose a fresh, potent powder.
• Kosher salt Enhances all other flavors. The coarser texture allows for better distribution.
• Black pepper Adds just the right amount of heat backdrop. Freshly ground gives the best flavor.
• Mayonnaise Creates the creamy base for the bang bang sauce. Full fat delivers the richest taste.
• Thai sweet chili sauce The signature sweet heat element. Look for brands containing visible chili flecks.
• Sriracha Kicks up the spice level. Mae Ploy or Huy Fong brands offer authentic flavor.
• Honey Balances the heat with natural sweetness. Local raw honey provides the most complex flavor.
• Wooden skewers Essential for presentation and ease of cooking. Soak thoroughly to prevent burning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken

Combine cubed chicken breasts with olive oil and seasonings in a large bowl. Ensure each piece gets evenly coated by tossing thoroughly. The oil helps the seasonings adhere while promoting beautiful browning during cooking.

Skewer the Chicken

Thread 4 5 chicken cubes onto each soaked wooden skewer. Leave a small space between pieces to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding which can lead to uneven cooking.

Prepare Bang Bang Sauce

Combine mayonnaise Thai sweet chili sauce Sriracha and honey in a small bowl. Mix until completely smooth and uniform in color. The sauce should be thick enough to cling to the chicken but still pourable.

Prepare for Cooking

Brush half the prepared sauce generously over all sides of the chicken skewers. Reserve the remaining sauce for serving. This two step saucing method ensures maximum flavor while maintaining food safety.

Air Fry the Skewers

Arrange skewers in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 11 12 minutes flipping halfway through cooking time. The chicken should reach 165°F internally and have beautiful caramelization on the edges.

Serve with Extra Sauce

Transfer the cooked skewers to a serving plate and drizzle or brush with the reserved bang bang sauce. This final touch adds an extra layer of flavor and appealing visual presentation.

Save

My family goes absolutely wild for the bang bang sauce. I often make a double batch because they love using it on everything from french fries to roasted vegetables. My daughter even requested it as a dipping sauce for her birthday party last year.

Make Ahead Tips

These skewers can be prepped in advance to save time on busy evenings. Season and skewer the chicken up to 24 hours before cooking, storing covered in the refrigerator. Prepare the bang bang sauce separately and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This makes them perfect for entertaining as you can do all the prep work beforehand and simply cook when guests arrive.

Flavor Variations

The basic recipe is delicious as written but you can easily customize it to create exciting variations. Try adding 1 tablespoon of lime zest to the chicken seasoning for a citrus twist. For an Asian inspired version incorporate 1 tablespoon of grated ginger into the bang bang sauce. Spice lovers can double the Sriracha or add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile skewers pair beautifully with many sides. For a complete meal serve them over coconut rice with a side of steamed broccoli. They also work wonderfully alongside an Asian slaw with sesame dressing. For a party presentation arrange the skewers on a large platter surrounded by cucumber slices lime wedges and additional bang bang sauce for dipping. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions or cilantro for a pop of color.

Dietary Adaptations

This recipe can be adapted for various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. For a lighter version substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise in the sauce. Those watching carbs can serve the skewers over cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains. For a gluten free option simply verify that your Thai sweet chili sauce is certified gluten free as most naturally are.

Recipe FAQs

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

Yes! You can bake them in a 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, or grill over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes per side. For both methods, wait until after cooking to brush with the bang bang sauce, and ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.

→ How spicy is the bang bang sauce?

The sauce has a moderate kick from the Thai sweet chili sauce and Sriracha, balanced by creamy mayonnaise and sweet honey. You can easily adjust the spice level by adding more or less Sriracha to suit your preference.

→ Can I prepare these chicken skewers ahead of time?

You can season the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing separately in the refrigerator. Thread the chicken onto skewers just before cooking for best results. Leftover cooked skewers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days.

→ What sides pair well with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

These versatile skewers pair wonderfully with jasmine rice, coconut rice, Asian slaw, cucumber salad, or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables and rice or noodles.

→ How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents them from burning during cooking, especially important when using the oven or grill method.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs make an excellent substitute and often result in even juicier skewers. Cut them into similar-sized cubes and follow the same cooking instructions, checking for the 165°F internal temperature.