Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, a dish that brings together juicy, seasoned chicken and a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce that’s impossible to resist. Each bite delivers a mouthwatering combination of textures and flavors, making it perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to lively backyard gatherings. This is the kind of recipe that quickly transforms any meal into a festive occasion, and it’s one you’ll want to make again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how just a handful of everyday ingredients can transform into something so exciting! Every item in this lineup is crucial—for that irresistible balance of tenderness, heat, and classic bang bang flavor, each component brings its own personality to the party.

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs (1 1/2 pounds): The perfect base for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers because they stay moist and tender with every bite.
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps the chicken absorb the seasonings and keeps it moist as it cooks.
• Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a subtle smokiness and a warm, vibrant color to every skewer.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Gives the chicken a savory depth that makes these skewers stand out.
• Kosher salt (2 tsp total, divided): Essential for bringing out all of the other flavors, used for both the marinade and the sauce.
• Black pepper (½ tsp): Provides a gentle heat and rounds out the seasoning mix.
• Mayonnaise (1 cup): The creamy backbone of the bang bang sauce, making it luscious and addictive.
• Sweet chili sauce (1/2 cup): Brings sweetness and a gentle kick that’s signature to bang bang recipes.
• Hot sauce (1 tbsp, or more to taste): For those who love a little excitement; feel free to adjust based on your spice preferences.
• Honey (2 tbsp): Adds a beautiful sticky sweetness that balances out the heat of the sauce.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. Keeping the pieces the same size ensures that everything cooks evenly and you get a perfect bite every time. Trust me, a little extra attention here makes all the difference in tenderness!

Step 2: Marinate with Seasonings

Grab a large bowl and toss in your chicken cubs along with the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and black pepper. Massage the flavors in with your hands or a spoon, making sure every piece gets its fair share of that delicious seasoning. Pop the bowl in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors really soak in. Your patience will be rewarded!

Step 3: Whip Up That Irresistible Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and the remaining teaspoon of salt. Whisk until smooth and glossy. This creamy, spicy, and sweet sauce is absolutely what sets Bang Bang Chicken Skewers apart from any other chicken dish—so don’t skimp!

Step 4: Skewer It Up

Thread those well-marinated chicken chunks onto skewers, leaving just a little breathing room between each piece. This allows the hot air in your air fryer to circulate properly and gives those gorgeous charred edges.

Step 5: Brush with Sauce

Take a bit of the bang bang sauce you just made and brush it all over the raw chicken skewers. This step locks in flavor and creates an extra flavorful crust as they cook.

Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the skewers in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching or crowded. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping them halfway through so both sides get beautifully browned. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)—juicy and ready to serve!

Step 7: Finish With More Sauce

Once the skewers emerge hot and golden from the air fryer, give them one last generous brush of that bang bang sauce. This final touch adds extra creaminess and an extra blast of flavor.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Bring your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers straight to the table, hot and saucy, with a shower of vibrant parsley or a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like. Don’t forget a bowl of extra bang bang sauce for dipping—your guests will thank you!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

Breathe new life into your serving platter with fresh, bright garnishes—think a sprinkling of chopped parsley for a pop of color or a handful of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. These simple additions take the look and taste of your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers to a whole new level.

Side Dishes

These skewers are truly the star, but they love company! Serve them alongside fluffy steamed rice, crisp cucumber salad, or even some spicy slaw for a refreshing contrast. Each side dish soaks up any extra sauce and complements the bold flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, slide the skewers onto a large platter surrounded by bowls of dipping sauces. Looking for a main-course upgrade? Arrange the chicken over a bed of greens and drizzle with remaining bang bang sauce. Or make mini skewers and serve them as colorful appetizers at your next get-together—fun and delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers store like a dream! Pack cooled skewers into an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store extra sauce separately to keep everything as fresh and vibrant as possible.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze these for later, let the skewers cool completely, then arrange them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor for up to two months. For best results, freeze the sauce in a separate small container to preserve its creamy texture.

Reheating

When hunger strikes, simply reheat the skewers straight from the fridge in a 350°F (175°C) oven or air fryer for about five minutes, or until warmed through. If frozen, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator first. A quick brush of extra bang bang sauce after reheating will restore their just-cooked flair!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Absolutely! Chicken breast works well, though it may turn out slightly less juicy than thighs. Just be mindful not to overcook it, and you’ll still get delicious, flavorful results.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No problem! You can grill or bake the skewers instead. Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, flipping halfway for even color.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the bang bang sauce?

If you’d like to lighten things up, Greek yogurt is a great alternative to mayonnaise. It offers a tangy kick and keeps the sauce creamy and delicious.

How spicy are these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

The heat level is totally up to you! As written, the recipe has a pleasant kick, but feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste—add more for extra punch or dial it back for a milder version.

Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate and skewer the chicken the night before, then keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. The sauce can also be made in advance, so dinnertime is a snap.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something bold, lively, and incredibly crave-worthy, these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers absolutely deliver. They’re a surefire way to bring smiles to your table and make memorable meals feel effortless. Try them out—you just might have a new favorite in your dinner rotation!

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