Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to please everyone at the table, these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are just what you need! They’re juicy, tender, and come together in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home because of its delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Plus, you can whip it up in under 30 minutes, leaving you with plenty of time to enjoy your meal!

Not only are these skewers incredibly delicious, but they also offer a fun way to bring everyone together around the dinner table. So grab your skewers and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, these skewers are perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: The unique sauce combines sweet and spicy notes that kids and adults alike will love.
• Versatile: Whether it’s a casual lunch or an impressive dinner party, these skewers fit any occasion.
• Low-carb option: Enjoy a flavorful meal without the carbs, making it a great choice for those watching their diet.
• Make-ahead friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for even more flavor when you’re ready to cook!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find that these simple and wholesome items come together beautifully to create mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.

For the Chicken

• 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
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or ingredients based on what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts or even shrimp for a different twist on the classic skewer.
• Add veggies: Thread bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes onto the skewers for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the sauce: Try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version of the sauce.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of hot sauce for an extra kick if you love heat!

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the boneless skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. It’s important that they are uniform in size so they cook evenly. The smaller pieces will soak up all those wonderful flavors during marination!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine your chicken cubes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until each piece is well coated. Letting this sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes enhances all those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt until smooth. This creamy sauce is what makes our Bang Bang Chicken Skewers truly special—it’s irresistibly tasty!

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread your marinated chicken onto skewers, making sure not to overcrowd them. Leaving a little space between each piece allows air to circulate while cooking—this ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Step 5: Air Fry the Skewers

Before placing them in your preheated air fryer set at 400°F (200°C), brush them generously with some of that luscious Bang Bang sauce. Place them in a single layer in your air fryer basket so they don’t touch each other.

Step 6: Cook Until Perfectly Done

Air fry for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The goal here is golden brown perfection! You’ll know they are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Finish with More Sauce

After cooking, brush on more Bang Bang sauce for extra flavor before serving.

Step 8: Serve Hot

Enjoy your deliciously smoky and spicy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers hot off the grill! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or sesame seeds if you like—a little extra touch goes a long way!

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are sure to become a hit in your home too. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are already a hit, but with a few extra tips, you can take them to the next level!

• Use chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts, ensuring your skewers stay tender throughout cooking.

• Don’t skip the marination: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances the overall flavor and tenderness. If you have time, marinating overnight will yield even better results!

• Preheat the air fryer: Preheating ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that delicious crispy exterior faster, making all the difference in texture.

• Experiment with the sauce: Feel free to adjust the heat level of your Bang Bang sauce! Add more hot sauce if you like it spicy or reduce it for a milder flavor that everyone can enjoy.

• Serve immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve these skewers right after cooking. They taste best when they are hot and fresh out of the air fryer.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Serving these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is just as fun as making them! With a few simple ideas, you can create an appealing presentation that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro or parsley: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the dish.

• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crunchy rolls filled with fresh vegetables offer a delightful contrast to the juicy skewers, providing a satisfying crunch in every bite.

• Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice complements the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce perfectly, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

• Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing provides crispness and brightness, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.

• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus add color and nutrition while maintaining a lightness that balances out the richness of the skewers.

Enjoy crafting your perfect meal with these tips! Your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will not only taste amazing but also look fantastic on your dining table.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dish throughout the week. They store well, making them an excellent option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skewers to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They should be consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each skewer individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Avoid using a microwave as it may make the chicken soggy.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs provide juiciness, chicken breasts can work too. Just be sure not to overcook them to maintain tenderness.

How can I adjust the spice level in my Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

To modify the spice level, simply adjust the amount of hot sauce in your sauce mixture. You can also try adding chili flakes for extra heat!

How long do Bang Bang Chicken Skewers last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that will impress everyone at your dinner table. I hope you find joy in making this recipe and enjoy every bite! Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations—you never know who you might inspire!