Spicy Sweet Chicken Skewers

This sweet and spicy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an irresistible meal that balances heat with tangy sweetness. The signature bang bang sauce caramelizes beautifully during cooking, creating sticky, flavorful skewers that disappear quickly at any gathering.

I first made these skewers for a backyard barbecue when I needed something that would please both spice lovers and those with milder palates. The empty platter and requests for the recipe told me everything I needed to know these are now my go to for summer gatherings and quick weeknight dinners alike.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: juicier and more forgiving than breast meat when grilled always look for boneless skinless thighs for easier prep
• Extra virgin olive oil: helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken and prevents sticking
• Paprika: adds a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the grilled taste
• Garlic powder: provides aromatic flavor without burning like fresh garlic might
• Black pepper: adds classic spice that balances the sweet elements
• Cayenne pepper: brings the heat foundation choose fresh cayenne for best flavor
• Salt: enhances all other flavors and helps tenderize the chicken
• Hot honey: creates an irresistible sticky glaze with gentle heat regular honey works too
• Mayonnaise: creates the creamy base for the bang bang sauce use full fat for richness
• Lime juice: cuts through the richness with bright acidity
• Thai sweet chili sauce: provides the signature sweet heat essential to bang bang flavor
• Sriracha: adjustable heat element that gives these skewers their kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken:

In a large bowl combine cubed chicken thighs with olive oil paprika garlic powder black pepper cayenne and salt. Toss thoroughly ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the spice blend. The oil helps the seasonings stick and keeps the chicken moist during cooking.

Skewer the Chicken:

Thread the seasoned chicken chunks onto soaked wooden skewers filling about three quarters of each skewer. Leave enough room at the bottom to hold the skewer comfortably. Work with one skewer at a time arranging pieces with small gaps between them for even cooking.

Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:

In a medium bowl whisk together mayonnaise Thai sweet chili sauce Sriracha and fresh lime juice until completely smooth. The consistency should be thick enough to cling to the chicken but not so thick it won't spread. Divide this sauce into two separate bowls one for basting during cooking and one for serving.

Apply the Sauce:

Using a basting brush generously coat each chicken skewer with the bang bang sauce getting into all the crevices between pieces. This initial layer creates the foundation of flavor that will caramelize during cooking.

Cook to Perfection:

For grilling cook over medium high heat for 15 to 20 minutes turning frequently and continuing to brush with sauce until caramelized and chicken reaches 165°F internally. For air frying cook at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes flipping halfway through cooking.

Finish and Serve:

Transfer cooked skewers to a serving plate drizzle with the reserved bang bang sauce and finish with a light drizzle of hot honey if desired. The contrast between the caramelized coating and fresh sauce creates layers of flavor.

Save

The Thai sweet chili sauce is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its magic when experimenting with different Asian inspired glazes one summer. My daughter who typically avoids spicy food couldn't stop eating these skewers and now requests them for her birthday dinner every year.

Make Ahead Tips

The bang bang sauce can be prepared up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This actually improves the flavor as the ingredients have time to meld together. You can also marinate the seasoned chicken for up to 24 hours before skewering making this perfect for planning ahead for gatherings. Just hold off on adding the sauce until right before cooking.

Variations to Try

For a lighter version substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise in the sauce. It adds a pleasant tanginess while reducing calories. Vegetarians can enjoy this same flavor profile by using firm tofu or tempeh instead of chicken just press the tofu well to remove excess moisture before marinating. For a tropical twist add chunks of fresh pineapple between the chicken pieces the natural sugars caramelize beautifully and complement the spicy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

These bang bang chicken skewers pair beautifully with coconut lime rice which helps balance the heat. A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar provides refreshing contrast to the rich spicy flavors. For a complete meal serve alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini bell peppers and onions that can cook alongside the skewers. Always serve with extra bang bang sauce on the side for dipping the more sauce the better.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for these skewers?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken breasts will work well as a substitute for thighs. Just be careful not to overcook them as breast meat can dry out more quickly than thighs. You might want to reduce the cooking time slightly and check for doneness (165°F internal temperature) a bit earlier.

→ How can I make these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers less spicy?

To make a milder version, omit the cayenne pepper from the seasoning, use regular honey instead of hot honey, and reduce the amount of Sriracha in the bang bang sauce. You can start with just 1-2 tablespoons of Sriracha and adjust to your taste preference.

→ Why should I soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Soaking wooden skewers in water while you prepare the other ingredients helps prevent them from burning during the cooking process. Aim to soak them for at least 15-20 minutes before threading the chicken onto them.

→ How long do these chicken skewers last in the refrigerator?

The cooked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will keep for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure to cool them completely before storing.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftover chicken skewers?

For the best texture, reheat the skewers in an air fryer at 350°F for about 3 minutes, or just until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overheat as this can make the chicken tough and chewy.

→ Can I prepare these skewers in advance for a party?

Yes! You can season and skewer the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. The bang bang sauce can also be prepared ahead and refrigerated separately. When ready to cook, brush the skewers with sauce and proceed with grilling or air frying as directed.