Name: Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce; 1 tbsp hot sauce (or more to taste); 2 tbsp honey; 1 tsp salt

Jump to Recipe

If you’re longing for a dinner that bursts with zest and is as fun to eat as it is to make, these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will win you over instantly. Juicy, tender chicken is marinated to perfection, threaded onto skewers, and air-fried until golden, then slathered with a creamy, sweet-spicy Bang Bang sauce that’s impossible to resist. This recipe blends the comfort of a classic favorite with a playful twist, making it ideal for weeknights, parties, or whenever you want a crowd-pleaser loaded with flavor. Get ready to add these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers to your regular mealtime rotation!

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are delightfully simple, but each one is handpicked to pack a punch when it comes to flavor, color, and texture. Every element in this list plays a specific role, so don’t skip the details—they’re what make these skewers unforgettable!

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are extra juicy and stay perfectly tender during air frying.
Olive Oil: Helps the seasonings cling to the chicken and keeps everything moist.
Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky color and warm depth to the chicken.
Garlic Powder: Gives a savory backbone that brings all the flavors together.
Salt: Essential for enhancing every single ingredient in the dish.
Black Pepper: Adds just the right note of gentle heat.
Mayonnaise: The ultra-creamy base that gives the Bang Bang sauce its signature richness.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Brings in that sticky sweetness and a touch of gentle heat.
Hot Sauce: Use your favorite for a customizable kick—add more for extra fire!
Honey: Balances the spice and tang with its mellow, golden sweetness.
Salt (again!): Lifts the sauce and brings those sweet and spicy notes into perfect balance.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prep and Cube the Chicken

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch cubes. Keeping the cubes the same size ensures they cook evenly—which is key for that juicy, perfect bite every time.

Step 2: Marinate for Flavor

In a big mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together so each piece is beautifully coated in the spice mix. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes; the wait is totally worth it, as the flavors really soak in.

Step 3: Mix the Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and another touch of salt. Stir until the sauce is ultra-smooth and set it aside. Trust me: this creamy, fiery sauce is the real star, so don’t skimp on whisking!

Step 4: Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. Not overcrowding is key for even crispiness. (If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes first to prevent charring.)

Step 5: Brush with Bang Bang Sauce

Before cooking, generously brush the chicken skewers with some of your prepared Bang Bang sauce. This layer caramelizes as it cooks, making those first bites extra mouthwatering.

Step 6: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), then arrange the skewers in a single layer in the basket. Make sure they’re not touching so the hot air can work its magic. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through (165°F inside) and gorgeously golden.

Step 7: Saucy Finish

Once the skewers are perfectly cooked, brush them again with more Bang Bang sauce while hot. This final layer is positively addictive and adds an extra shine.

Step 8: Serve and Savor

Transfer the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers to a platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley or sesame seeds if you like, and serve immediately with extra sauce for dipping. Prepare for lots of happy faces at the table!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or crunchy sesame seeds instantly elevates your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. For extra flair, try thinly sliced green onions, a squeeze of fresh lime, or even a dusting of chili flakes if you want a spicier finish. These little touches make your dish look fresh and restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with cool, crisp vegetables like cucumber ribbons, carrot sticks, or a tangy Asian-style slaw. For something heartier, try coconut rice or jasmine rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Even a pile of warm naan or flatbread makes for perfect saucy scooping!

Creative Ways to Present

Set up a “dipping station” with extra Bang Bang sauce plus some spicy ketchup or garlic aioli for variety. Or, slide the chicken off the skewers and stuff it into lettuce cups for a fun, hands-on appetizer. Mini skewers become party-perfect finger food, while a big platter with colorful veggies makes dinner feel extra festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, simply transfer them (skewers and all) to an airtight container once cooled. Refrigerate and they’ll stay juicy and flavorful for up to three days—making them a superb make-ahead option for quick lunches or snacks.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for longer storage. Wrap the cooled skewers tightly in foil or store them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed. The sauce may lose a little creaminess, but the flavor is still fantastic!

Reheating

To reheat, preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F and warm the skewers until heated through (about 5-7 minutes). Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken a bit rubbery. Brush with a fresh drizzle of Bang Bang sauce after reheating for that just-cooked taste!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breast will also work for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, though it can be a bit leaner and might cook slightly faster. Just keep an eye on the skewers so they don’t overcook.

Is it possible to grill or bake these skewers instead of air frying?

Yes, you can grill the skewers over medium-high heat or bake them on a sheet pan at 425°F. Just flip halfway and cook until the chicken is fully done. The method will change the texture slightly, but you’ll still get that addictive Bang Bang flavor.

How spicy is the sauce, and can I adjust the heat?

The Bang Bang sauce has a mellow, approachable heat thanks to the hot sauce and chili sauce, but you can make it milder by reducing the hot sauce or increase the spice for extra kick. Taste and tweak until it’s just right for your crew!

What kind of hot sauce is best for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Use any favorite hot sauce—Sriracha is popular for its balance of spice and sweetness, but classic cayenne-based sauces work well too. Go with your taste buds!

Do I have to marinate the chicken, or can I skip that step in a rush?

While a quick marinade is key for soaking in all those great flavors, if you’re short on time, even 10-15 minutes will help. But if you can manage 30 minutes, your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will be even more flavorful and tender.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are such a hit—juicy chicken, craveable sauce, and plenty of versatility make this a recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again. Give it a try, share it with friends, and watch it disappear faster than you can say “Bang Bang!” Happy cooking!

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 29 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a savory blend of spices, then air fried to perfection and glazed with a sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce.

Instructions

Cut the chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes.
Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the sauce: Combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt in a bowl.
Thread the chicken: Skewer the marinated chicken cubes.
Brush with sauce: Coat the skewers with Bang Bang sauce.
Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 400°F, air fry skewers for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Final touch: Brush cooked skewers with more Bang Bang sauce.
Serve: Garnish with parsley or sesame seeds, serve hot with extra sauce.

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Air Fry
Cuisine: Asian