If you love a bold fusion of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are calling your name! Grilled or air-fried to perfection, they are juicy, caramelized, and slathered in a creamy, tangy Bang Bang sauce that takes them to the next level. Perfect for summer BBQs, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers are as easy to make as they are to devour.
What makes them extra special? The combination of Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and fresh lime juice, which balances heat with a touch of sweetness. Whether you like them extra spicy or mild, you can easily customize the recipe to your preference. Serve them with a side of veggies, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Get ready to fall in love with this crowd-pleaser!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1½-2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
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1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp black pepper
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½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
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½ tsp salt
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2 tbsp hot honey (optional)
Bang Bang Sauce:
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1 cup mayonnaise
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2 tbsp fresh lime juice
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⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
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¼ cup Sriracha (adjust to taste)
Directions:
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In a large bowl, mix the cubed chicken thighs with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and salt. Toss well to coat evenly.
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Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto skewers, filling about ¾ of each skewer.
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In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice until well combined. Reserve half of this sauce for dipping after cooking.
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Brush the remaining sauce evenly over the skewered chicken, ensuring full coverage.
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For the Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, turning frequently. Continue brushing with sauce until chicken is caramelized and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
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For the Air Fryer: Place skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Cook until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Transfer skewers to a plate and brush with the reserved bang bang sauce. Drizzle with hot honey if desired. Serve immediately.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 586 kcal | Servings: 4
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: A Perfect Blend of Sweet, Spicy, and Savory
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers bold flavors, juicy textures, and a delightful balance of sweet and spicy, look no further than Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. This recipe has taken social media by storm, becoming a favorite among home cooks and grill masters alike. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal, planning a backyard BBQ, or meal-prepping for the week, these skewers are an easy, flavorful, and versatile option.
With Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and a creamy base, the Bang Bang sauce in this dish creates an explosion of flavor that perfectly complements the tender, caramelized chicken. Not only are these skewers quick to prepare, but they can also be customized to suit various spice preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re using a grill, oven, or air fryer, this dish is incredibly adaptable and consistently delicious.
The Origins of Bang Bang Chicken
The term “Bang Bang Chicken” originates from China’s Sichuan cuisine, where it refers to a dish called Bàng Bàng Jī. The name comes from the traditional method of tenderizing the chicken by pounding it with a wooden stick, which breaks down the fibers and enhances the texture. This technique was commonly used with boiled chicken, shredded, and then served with a nutty, spicy sauce made from sesame paste, soy sauce, and Sichuan peppercorns.
Over time, Western adaptations of Bang Bang Chicken have evolved, replacing the traditional peanut-based sauce with a sweet, tangy, and creamy combination of mayonnaise, chili sauce, and Sriracha. While the cooking method differs, the core essence of bold, spicy flavors remains intact, making Bang Bang Chicken a globally loved dish.
Why You’ll Love These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
There are countless reasons to try Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, but here are some of the best:
1. Incredible Flavor Profile
This dish is sweet, spicy, tangy, and creamy all at once. The combination of Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice creates a bold and addictive marinade that pairs beautifully with grilled or air-fried chicken.
2. Quick and Easy Preparation
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these skewers are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you grill them outdoors or cook them indoors in an air fryer, they come together in under 30 minutes.
3. Versatile Cooking Methods
Don’t have access to a grill? No problem! These skewers can be made in an air fryer, oven, or stovetop grill pan. No matter which method you choose, they’ll still turn out juicy, flavorful, and caramelized.
4. Adjustable Spice Levels
Not a fan of spicy food? You can easily adjust the heat by reducing the amount of Sriracha or omitting the cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you love extra heat, you can increase the Sriracha, add red pepper flakes, or drizzle hot honey over the skewers before serving.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion
These skewers make an excellent appetizer, party dish, or main course. Serve them at summer cookouts, family dinners, or even as meal prep for the week. They pair well with a variety of side dishes, making them a go-to recipe for many occasions.
Best Cooking Methods for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
One of the best things about this dish is its adaptability to different cooking methods. Here’s how you can prepare it depending on your preferred technique:
1. Grilling
Grilling is the best way to get charred, smoky flavors on your skewers. Cooking over medium high heat allows the marinade to caramelize, giving the chicken a beautiful golden-brown crust. The direct heat also enhances the sweet and tangy flavors of the Bang Bang sauce.
2. Air Frying
For a quicker, healthier alternative, air frying is a great option. Air frying at 400°F for 10 12 minutes ensures that the chicken is crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside. This method is perfect if you want an easy, mess free way to cook indoors.
3. Oven Roasting
Baking the skewers at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes is another convenient method. While it doesn’t provide the same smoky flavor as grilling, it still results in juicy and flavorful chicken. You can finish the skewers under a broiler for 2-3 minutes to get a slightly charred effect.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
To complete your meal, here are some delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers:
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Steamed Jasmine Rice – The mild, fluffy rice balances out the bold flavors of the sauce.
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Grilled Vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus complement the chicken’s charred, smoky flavor.
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Cucumber Salad – A fresh, tangy cucumber salad with a light vinegar dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
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Garlic Noodles – If you want a heartier meal, serve the skewers with buttery garlic noodles.
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Mango Salsa – A sweet and zesty salsa made with diced mango, red onion, and lime juice pairs beautifully with the spicy Bang Bang sauce.
For a complete dining experience, consider serving these skewers with an Asian-inspired dipping sauce such as:
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Peanut Sauce – Adds a nutty, creamy element.
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Soy-Ginger Glaze – A slightly salty, umami-rich sauce.
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Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce – Enhances the dish’s natural sweetness.
Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Cut chicken into even-sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) for maximum flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the skewers – leave a little space between each piece so they cook evenly.
Brush extra sauce while grilling to enhance caramelization and keep the chicken moist.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly cooked chicken.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a must try dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and easy to make meals. Their sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce creates an unforgettable taste experience, while the grilled or air fried texture adds a satisfying crunch.
With its quick preparation, versatile cooking methods, and easily adjustable spice levels, this recipe is ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, meal prep, or at a summer BBQ, these skewers are guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser.
So, fire up your grill (or air fryer) and get ready to enjoy the perfect combination of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors because Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are here to elevate your mealtime!