Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

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Author: Ellie
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Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are crispy, juicy, and coated in a creamy sweet and spicy sauce that makes every bite irresistible. They cook in just 22 minutes, so they are perfect for busy nights or easy entertaining.

Bang Bang chicken skewers with creamy chili sauce and grill marks on slate board
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers 6

Why Youโ€™ll Love These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers bring bold flavor without a lot of work. First, you toss tender chicken cubes with simple pantry spices. Then, you brush on a creamy bang bang sauce that tastes sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy all at once.

Because this recipe uses the air fryer, the chicken turns golden on the outside while staying juicy inside. As a result, you get that lightly crisp texture without deep frying. Meanwhile, the sauce adds richness and a gentle heat that you can adjust to your taste.

I love serving Bang Bang Chicken Skewers when friends come over since they look fun and feel special. However, they are just as easy for a quick family dinner. In fact, each skewer has about 253 calories, so you can enjoy them without feeling heavy.

Quick 22 Minute Recipe for Busy Weeknights

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers take about 10 minutes to prep and 12 minutes to cook. Therefore, you can have dinner on the table fast. While the air fryer works, you can set the table or prep a simple side.

Perfect as an Appetizer or Main Course

You can serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers as party bites or as a full meal. If you add rice or salad, they feel hearty. However, on a platter with extra sauce, they shine as an appetizer.

Air Fryer, Oven, and Grill Friendly

Although I love the air fryer for speed, you can also bake or grill Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. So, no matter the season, you can make them. Each method keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers use simple ingredients, yet the flavor tastes restaurant worthy. Most items are pantry staples, so you may already have them on hand. Meanwhile, the sauce comes together with just a quick whisk.

Chicken and Seasoning Ingredients

Start with 2 pounds of boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into about 1 inch cubes. Because even pieces cook evenly, try to keep the size consistent.

Next, you need 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil. This helps the spices stick and keeps the chicken moist. Then add 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ยฝ teaspoon black pepper.

You also need wooden skewers soaked in water for at least 30 minutes. Soaking prevents burning in the air fryer or oven. However, if you have metal skewers that fit your air fryer, you can use those instead.

Creamy Bang Bang Sauce Ingredients

The star of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is the sauce. First, use 1ยผ cups mayonnaise for a rich, creamy base. Then stir in โ…” cup Thai sweet chili sauce for sweetness and mild heat.

Next, add 2 teaspoons Sriracha. However, you can add more if you like extra spice. Finally, mix in 2 tablespoons honey to balance the heat with smooth sweetness.

As you whisk everything together, the sauce turns glossy and thick. Therefore, it clings beautifully to each skewer. You will set aside half for serving, which keeps the flavor fresh and bold at the end.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Step by Step

Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers feels simple and fun. If you prep everything first, the process moves quickly. Meanwhile, the smell of seasoned chicken cooking will make everyone hungry.

Soak Skewers and Prep the Chicken

First, place wooden skewers in water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step matters because it helps prevent burning.

Meanwhile, cut the chicken breasts into even 1 inch cubes. Try to keep them similar in size so they cook evenly. Then pat them dry with paper towels.

Season the Chicken

Next, place the chicken cubes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil. Then sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper over the top.

After that, toss everything together until each piece looks evenly coated. Because the seasoning sticks well, you get flavor in every bite.

Thread the Skewers

Now thread about 4 to 5 pieces of seasoned chicken onto each soaked skewer. Leave a little space between pieces so heat can circulate.

As a result, the chicken cooks evenly and develops a slight golden edge.

Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Then divide the sauce in half. Set one bowl aside for serving. Meanwhile, use the other half to brush over the chicken before cooking.

Air Fry at 400ยฐF Until 165ยฐF Internal Temperature

Preheat your air fryer to 400ยฐF. Place the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in a single layer in the basket. Do not overcrowd, so cook in batches if needed.

Cook for about 11 to 12 minutes. Flip the skewers halfway through cooking. As the chicken cooks, it will turn golden and slightly crisp on the edges.

Check that the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF. Once done, brush with a little more sauce from the cooking portion if desired.

Raw Bang Bang Chicken Skewers coated in creamy chili sauce
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers 7

Finish with Reserved Sauce and Serve

Finally, drizzle or brush the reserved fresh sauce over the hot Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Serve immediately while juicy and warm.

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with creamy chili glaze and grill marks
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers 8

Alternative Cooking Methods Oven and Grill Instructions

Although the air fryer is quick, you can still enjoy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers using other methods. Therefore, choose what works best for your kitchen.

How to Bake Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Place the skewers in a single layer. Then bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking so they brown evenly.

Check that the chicken reaches 165ยฐF internally. After baking, brush with the reserved sauce. As a result, you keep that creamy texture fresh and flavorful.

How to Grill Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Preheat your grill to medium high heat. Lightly oil the grates so the chicken does not stick.

Place the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers on the grill. Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes per side. Turn carefully so they cook evenly.

Once the chicken reaches 165ยฐF, remove from the grill. Then brush generously with the reserved sauce. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy sauce.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Skewers Every Time

Even though Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are simple, a few small tips make them even better.

Wooden vs. Metal Skewers

If you use wooden skewers, always soak them for at least 30 minutes. Otherwise, they may burn.

However, metal skewers save time since you do not need to soak them. Just make sure they fit inside your air fryer basket.

Preventing Dry Chicken

Cut chicken into even cubes so they cook at the same rate. Also, do not overcook. Use a thermometer and pull the skewers at 165ยฐF.

Because chicken breasts are lean, they can dry out if left too long. So keep an eye on them.

Sauce Tips for Maximum Flavor

Always divide the sauce before brushing raw chicken. This keeps your serving sauce fresh and safe.

If you like more heat, add extra Sriracha. Meanwhile, if you prefer sweeter flavor, stir in a bit more honey.

Make Ahead, Storage, and Reheating

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers work great for meal prep. Therefore, you can plan ahead for busy days.

Can You Make Them Ahead of Time?

You can season and skewer the chicken a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge until ready to cook.

You can also make the sauce ahead and refrigerate it separately. Then cook fresh when needed.

How to Store Leftovers

Store cooked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Keep the sauce in a separate container.

If you prefer, remove the chicken from the skewers before storing.

Best Ways to Reheat

Reheat in a 350ยฐF oven until warmed through. However, you can also use a microwave for quick heating.

For best texture, warm them in a skillet over medium heat. Then brush with reserved sauce before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers over fluffy white rice or jasmine rice. Meanwhile, add a simple cucumber salad for freshness.

You can also tuck them into wraps with shredded lettuce and extra sauce. For parties, arrange them on a platter with dipping bowls.

If you love bold chicken flavors, you might also enjoy something crispy, try Bang Bang Chicken Skewers to Crispy Sweet Chilli Chicken Recipe. You can also make a slow cooker dinner like Bang Bang Chicken Skewers to Honey Garlic Chicken and Veggies Slow Cooker Recipe or a quick stir fry such as Bang Bang Chicken Skewers to Black Pepper Chicken Recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to marinate bang bang chicken?

You do not need a long marinade for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. Because the seasoning coats the chicken directly, you can cook right away. However, you can let it sit for 30 minutes in the fridge for deeper flavor.

What to serve with bang bang chicken skewers?

Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with rice, roasted vegetables, fresh salad, or in wraps. Meanwhile, extra bang bang sauce on the side makes everything better.

What do you need to make bang bang chicken?

You need chicken breasts, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and skewers.

Why is it called bang bang chicken?

The name comes from the bold, punchy flavor of the sauce. Traditionally, the name also referred to tenderizing chicken with a stick, which made a banging sound.

Other Recipes You May Enjoy

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are quick, flavorful, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. Because they cook in about 22 minutes, you can enjoy bold sweet and spicy flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Meanwhile, the creamy bang bang sauce makes each bite juicy and satisfying. Whether you air fry, bake, or grill them, these skewers always turn out tender and delicious. Once you try this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe, it may become one of your favorite chicken recipes for easy meals and fun entertaining.

For more easy ideas and step by step visuals, you can also follow along on Pinterest at pinterest.

Bang Bang chicken skewers with creamy chili sauce and grill marks on slate board

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

e94924d1608e82913ec4653f32c5b45a269ae3f9aaaf13b8e58786e7d52e56c9?s=30&d=mm&r=gEllie
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are juicy, tender chicken cubes coated in a creamy sweet and spicy sauce. Ready in just 22 minutes, they are perfect for weeknight dinners or easy entertaining.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine Asian Inspired
Servings 16 skewers
Calories 253 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer Preheat to 400ยฐF
  • Wooden or Metal Skewers Soak wooden skewers before use
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

  • Wooden skewers soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ยฝ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 ยผ cups mayonnaise
  • โ…” cup Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Sriracha (or more to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons honey

Instructions
 

  • Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. Meanwhile, cut chicken breasts into even 1-inch cubes and pat dry.
  • Toss chicken cubes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  • Thread 4 to 5 pieces of seasoned chicken onto each soaked skewer, leaving slight space between pieces.
  • Whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Set aside half of the sauce for serving and use the remaining sauce to brush over the chicken.
  • Preheat air fryer to 400ยฐF. Arrange skewers in a single layer and cook for 11 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken reaches 165ยฐF internally.
  • Brush or drizzle cooked skewers with reserved sauce and serve immediately.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent burning. Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165ยฐF. Store leftover sauce separately from cooked skewers.
Keyword Air Fryer Chicken, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, easy chicken recipe, Sweet Chili Chicken
Ellie home cook sharing easy and flavorful recipes
Hi, Iโ€™m Ellie!

I started microwavesrecipes to make cooking easy and enjoyable for everyone. Here youโ€™ll find quick and tasty recipes perfect for busy families, students, and anyone who loves good food without the fuss. Letโ€™s make mealtime simple, fun, and full of flavor.

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