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These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a favorite when I need something bold and crave-worthy in a hurry. Juicy cubes of chicken soak up a spicy-sweet homemade sauce and turn crisp-tender in the air fryer. Whether you offer them as an appetizer or dinner, they always disappear fast around my table.
I started making these after a friend served something similar at a potluck and now they are my go-to when I want big flavor with little fuss. I always get requests for the secret sauce.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts cubed: boneless skinless chicken stays juicy and soaks up flavor easily look for firm plump pieces
- Olive oil: adds moisture and helps seasoning stick a peppery extra virgin type is best
- Paprika: lends subtle warmth and great color smoked or sweet both work but I love Spanish paprika here
- Garlic powder: brings savory aroma and depth use a fresh jar for best flavor
- Kosher salt and black pepper: round out the seasoning and balance sweetness choose freshly ground black pepper and a coarse salt
- Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce full fat gives the richest taste
- Thai sweet chili sauce: creates the signature sticky-sweet tang try to find one without artificial dyes
- Sriracha: a little goes a long way for heat start with less if you like it mild
- Honey: adds mellow sweetness and a glossy finish raw honey if available for deeper flavor
Choose quality condiments and fresh spices—your tastebuds will thank you.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut chicken breasts into one inch cubes using a sharp knife for even size. Place them in a large bowl for easy tossing.
- Season and Toss:
- Add olive oil paprika garlic powder salt and pepper to the chicken. Toss thoroughly so each cube is well coated and glistening.
- Thread Chicken Skewers:
- Take soaked wooden skewers and thread four to five chicken cubes onto each skewer. Leave a small gap between pieces so air can circulate.
- Mix the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a separate small bowl whisk together mayonnaise Thai sweet chili sauce Sriracha and honey until smooth and unified.
- Separate and Reserve the Sauce:
- Pour half of the sauce into a different bowl and set aside for after cooking. The rest will be used for brushing the raw skewers.
- Sauce and Air Fry:
- Brush chicken skewers all over with half of the sauce. Place the skewers in your air fryer basket in a single layer so they cook evenly.
- Cook the Skewers:
- Air fry at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for eleven to twelve minutes flipping once halfway through. The chicken should reach one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit internally.
- Finish and Serve:
- Transfer hot skewers to a plate and brush or drizzle generously with reserved bang bang sauce. Serve right away for the best taste.
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I absolutely love how the honey brings everything together and gives just the right sticky shine. This recipe brings back memories of summer nights grilling with my family where even picky eaters would reach for seconds.
Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. Keep extra sauce in a separate container so the chicken does not get soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you want richer flavor and extra tenderness. Greek yogurt can substitute for mayonnaise in the sauce for a lighter option. If Thai sweet chili sauce is unavailable mix equal parts honey and hot sauce for a close effect. For a vegetarian twist use tofu cubes and decrease cook time slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Pile the skewers over a crisp slaw and sprinkle with chopped scallions for a fresh main course. They are perfect alongside steamed rice or tucked into pita bread for an easy wrap. For parties stick the skewers in a pineapple halve for a tropical display.
Cultural Context
Bang bang sauce takes inspiration from Asian cuisine layering creamy spicy and sweet flavors. While traditional Chinese bang bang chicken uses sesame sauce this recipe captures American fusion flair with its chili mayo glaze. Making these chicken skewers feels like a fun way to bring restaurant favorites home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken on skewers and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Sauce should be brushed on just before cooking.
- → Is it possible to cook these in the oven?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, then brush with sauce after cooking.
- → What type of skewers should I use?
Wooden skewers work well—soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers are a reusable option.
- → How spicy is the bang bang sauce?
The spice level is moderate, thanks to Sriracha and sweet chili sauce, but you can adjust to taste.
- → Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, prepare the sauce ahead and refrigerate for up to three days. Stir well before using.
- → Are there grilling instructions for this dish?
Yes, grill the skewers over medium-high heat 8-10 minutes per side, then brush with bang bang sauce before serving.