If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and perfectly grilled juiciness, the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe is your next go-to. This recipe brings together tender chicken thighs smothered in a creamy, spicy, and sweet sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, a summer barbecue, or just want a quick weeknight meal that feels special, these skewers hit the mark every time. The combination of smoky paprika, garlicky marinade, and that signature tangy, spicy Bang Bang sauce will have you coming back for more — trust me, they’re absolutely addictive!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this recipe. Each item plays a crucial role, from seasoning the chicken perfectly to crafting the luscious sauce that gives this dish its distinctive kick.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: The juiciest choice that stays tender and flavorful when cooked.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick to the chicken and adds a touch of richness.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken cubes.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for bringing out all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and earthy notes.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the Bang Bang sauce.
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce: Gives a perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat.
- 1 tbsp hot sauce: Adjust based on your heat preference for that signature spicy punch.
- 2 tbsp honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize beautifully.
- 1 tsp salt (for sauce): Enhances the overall sauce flavor and balances sweetness.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into evenly sized 1-inch cubes — this ensures they cook evenly, so every bite is juicy and tender. Uniform pieces mean no dry edges or undercooked centers, which is a small detail that truly elevates the dish.
Step 2: Season and Marinate
Next, combine the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together in a large bowl until each piece is well coated. Pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes — this marinating step lets the flavors penetrate the meat deeply, turning simple chicken into something extraordinary.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken chills, whip up the Bang Bang sauce by mixing mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt. This sauce is the heart and soul of the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe — creamy with just the right amount of heat and sweetness. Taste and tweak the hot sauce amount until it’s just right for your palate. Don’t forget to set some aside for dipping later!
Step 4: Thread the Chicken
Carefully skewer the marinated chicken pieces, leaving small gaps between them. This spacing helps the heat circulate evenly during cooking, so your chicken gets that perfect char without steaming.
Step 5: Brush with Sauce
Generously brush the skewers with the Bang Bang sauce before cooking. This extra step infuses the chicken with bold flavor right from the start, making the final dish irresistibly tasty.
Step 6: Air Fry the Skewers
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers in a single layer without crowding, then cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Your kitchen will fill with mouthwatering aromas as the chicken browns and reaches that safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Finish with More Sauce
Once cooked, give your skewers another generous brush of the remaining Bang Bang sauce. This final coating adds a glossy sheen and an extra burst of flavor that makes these chicken skewers truly shine.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or toasted sesame seeds on top not only adds a pop of color but also introduces fresh, nutty notes that complement the richness of the sauce. These little touches make your presentation pop and elevate the overall taste experience.
Side Dishes
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with crisp coleslaw, fragrant jasmine rice, or even a refreshing cucumber salad. These sides help balance the richness of the sauce and keep the meal light and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skewers over a bed of crunchy lettuce leaves with extra dipping sauce on the side. Alternatively, cut the grilled chicken off the skewers and toss into tacos or rice bowls for an easy party option. The versatility of this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe means you can get creative every time!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover skewers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit after resting, making for delicious next-day bites.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked skewers by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and foil, then placing in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Remember to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat skewers in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy again. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but may soften the chicken texture slightly.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender, especially when cooked on skewers. If using breasts, just be careful not to overcook.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
While you can skip marinating, allowing the chicken to soak in the seasonings for at least 30 minutes really amps up the flavor and ensures a more tender bite.
Can I grill these skewers instead of air-frying?
Yes, grilling is a fantastic alternative and adds even more smoky flavor. Just cook over medium-high heat, turning often until the chicken is cooked through.
How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
The heat level is quite manageable but depends on how much hot sauce you add. You can easily adjust it to be milder or spicier according to your preference.
Can I make the sauce vegan or dairy-free?
Traditional mayo is used in this sauce, but you can swap it for vegan or dairy-free mayo alternatives to suit dietary needs without sacrificing creaminess.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about skewers packed with tender chicken and slathered in that unforgettable Bang Bang sauce. I promise once you try this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe, it will become a staple in your cooking repertoire — perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself on any day of the week. Grab your skewers, fire up that air fryer (or grill), and get ready to dive into a flavor-packed adventure!
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Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe features tender chicken thighs marinated with savory spices, then air fried to perfection and coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these skewers deliver a burst of flavor with a crispy outside and juicy inside in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 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
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (or more to taste)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. Ensure the pieces are uniform to promote even cooking.
- Season and Marinate: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is thoroughly coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt until fully combined. Adjust the hot sauce to your preferred spice level. Set aside some sauce for serving.
- Thread the Chicken: Skewer the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between pieces for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the skewers.
- Brush with Sauce: Generously brush the skewered chicken pieces with some of the prepared Bang Bang sauce before air frying for extra flavor.
- Air Fry the Skewers: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the skewers in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not touching. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is browned and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Finish with More Sauce: When the chicken is cooked, brush with additional Bang Bang sauce for a glossy, flavorful coating.
- Serve: Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or sesame seeds if desired. Offer extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier and more flavorful skewers compared to chicken breasts.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can refrigerate it for up to 2 hours for stronger flavor.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these skewers can be cooked under a broiler or on a grill, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- Be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce in the Bang Bang sauce to control the spice level to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
