Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers bring together juicy seasoned chicken, a craveable sweet and spicy sauce, and that irresistible char you get from the grill or a quick cook in the air fryer. Whether you are hosting a backyard gathering or looking for a fun weeknight dinner, these skewers always steal the show with their punchy flavors and simple prep.

The first time I tried bang bang sauce I knew it needed to go on chicken skewers I now serve these at picnics all summer long and my friends always ask for the recipe

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: cubed into one inch pieces These stay moist and flavorful I prefer getting boneless skinless thighs with a little marbling for juiciness
• Extra virgin olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick and promotes browning Use a fresh high quality oil for best taste
• Paprika: Adds smokiness and warmth Spanish paprika is especially flavorful
• Garlic powder: Rounds out the savoriness Choose a fresh jar for best flavor
• Black pepper: Adds bite Grinding fresh makes a difference
• Cayenne pepper: Brings subtle heat Adjust up or down to suit your spice preference
• Salt: Brings all the flavors together Use kosher or sea salt for more even seasoning
• Hot honey: Optional but amps up that sweet and spicy combo Try to find one with real chili infusion
• Mayonnaise: This makes the sauce rich and creamy Go for full fat and squeeze the packet first to help it mix smoothly
• Lime juice: Adds essential brightness Use freshly squeezed for the best tang
• Thai sweet chili sauce: Gives that signature sticky sweetness Look for a brand with visible chili flakes for extra depth
• Sriracha: Brings the spice and color Adjust to taste and always check the heat level of your bottle

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl combine the cubed chicken thighs with olive oil paprika garlic powder black pepper cayenne and salt Toss the mixture until every piece is evenly coated letting it sit while you prep everything else This helps deepen the flavor and keeps the chicken moist

Thread the Skewers:

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least ten minutes to prevent burning Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers filling each about halfway to three quarters full so there is room to flip them

Make the Bang Bang Sauce:

In a medium bowl whisk together mayonnaise lime juice Thai sweet chili sauce and Sriracha until smooth Divide the sauce in half reserving half for brushing and half for dipping after the skewers are cooked

Prep for Cooking:

Place the chicken skewers on a baking sheet Use a pastry brush or spoon to coat the chicken pieces all over with half of your bang bang sauce Get into the crevices so every bite is saucy

Grill Method:

Preheat the grill on medium high Once hot arrange skewers and cook for about fifteen to twenty minutes turning every few minutes as the chicken caramelizes Keep brushing with sauce as it cooks and grill until the internal temperature reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit for juicy chicken

Air Fryer Method:

Preheat the air fryer to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Lay skewers in a single layer working in batches if needed Air fry for about ten to twelve minutes flipping once halfway through Check that chicken reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit before removing

Finish and Serve:

Arrange the cooked skewers on a platter and generously drizzle or brush with the reserved sauce hot honey goes on now if you are using it Serve immediately while the chicken is hot and sticky

Save

Bang bang sauce is wildly popular for good reason As a mayo lover I could eat it by the spoonful My family always fights over the last bit for dipping and it is my favorite part to drizzle extra over grilled corn on the side

Storage Tips

Let leftover skewers cool completely and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge They will keep for up to four days When ready to eat pop them into a three hundred fifty degree Fahrenheit air fryer for three minutes to reheat or use the microwave but be careful not to dry the chicken out

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter option chicken breast works well just be sure not to overcook so it stays moist For a different flavor profile try orange juice in place of lime juice or swap out the hot honey for plain honey You can also make your own sweet chili sauce with chili flakes honey and rice vinegar

Serving Suggestions

These skewers are perfect as a main with steamed jasmine rice or tucked in warm pita with crunchy slaw For gatherings I love making them bite sized for appetizers Add a big salad and grilled veggies to round out the meal

Cultural and Historical Context

Bang Bang sauce first gained popularity with shrimp in American Asian fusion restaurants It is a great example of classic flavors reimagined for new dishes The combination of sweet spicy and tangy makes it a favorite across different cuisines and always sparks conversation at the table

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. Just watch the cooking time, as breasts can dry out faster than thighs.

→ How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken to reduce burning on the grill or in the air fryer.

→ Can the skewers be made less spicy?

Absolutely! Omit the cayenne pepper, skip the hot honey, and use less Sriracha to create a milder flavor profile.

→ What’s the ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken skewers?

Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for both safety and juicy texture.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in an air fryer at 350°F or microwave briefly to avoid drying out.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten free, but always check labels on condiments like Sriracha and sweet chili sauce for any additives.