Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you adore bold flavors and crave a dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to share, then you’re going to fall head over heels for these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. This recipe captures the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and sweet with tender chicken thighs grilled to juicy perfection on skewers. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply want to upgrade your weeknight dinner, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers deliver excitement with every bite and are guaranteed to become a household favorite in no time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind fantastic Bang Bang Chicken Skewers lies in using simple yet impactful ingredients. Each element plays a vital role, bringing together the tender chicken, smoky spices, and that irresistible creamy, spicy sauce that makes this dish so memorable.

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: Thighs are perfect for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender even at high heat.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the spices stick to the chicken.
• 1 tsp paprika: Gives a subtle smoky depth and beautiful color.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses savory aroma and flavor.
• 1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken perfectly.
• ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle heat to balance the flavors.
• 1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the Bang Bang sauce that keeps it rich and smooth.
• 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce: Brings sweetness and spice, defining the sauce’s character.
• 1 tbsp hot sauce: Adds a kick and depth to the sauce; adjust to your heat preference.
• 2 tbsp honey: Balances heat and adds a glossy finish.
• 1 tsp salt: Rounds out the sauce’s flavors for perfect seasoning.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. Uniform pieces are crucial because they ensure the chicken cooks evenly, getting that tender, juicy texture we all love in Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.

Step 2: Marinate with Spice

In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until each piece is coated in that flavorful blend. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; this step is what pumps the flavor deep into every bite.

Step 3: Whip Up the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is marinating, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt in a separate bowl. Whisk these ingredients until smooth and creamy, creating the signature sauce that makes Bang Bang Chicken Skewers so addictive.

Step 4: Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers. Leave a little space between each piece so the heat can circulate and cook the chicken evenly — crowded skewers can lead to uneven cooking.

Step 5: Brush with Sauce and Cook

Give the skewers a generous brush with the Bang Bang sauce before placing them in the air fryer. Heating the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) is the sweet spot for cooking chicken skewers perfectly in about 12 to 15 minutes. Flip halfway through to get a gorgeous, even color and make sure the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy chicken.

Step 6: Finish with a Sauce Glaze

Once the skewers are cooked, brush on some more Bang Bang sauce for that extra layer of irresistible flavor. This final touch locks in moisture and adds a delightful glaze that shines on every skewer.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Garnishes

Elevate your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers by sprinkling on chopped fresh parsley or sesame seeds. These simple garnishes not only add a pop of color but also bring fresh herbal notes and a lovely crunch to each bite.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with light and fresh side dishes such as a crisp cucumber salad, steamed jasmine rice, or even some grilled vegetables. These sides complement the rich and spicy flavors without overpowering the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with small bowls of extra sauce for dipping or even alongside lettuce leaves so guests can wrap their skewers in fresh greens. You can also place the skewers over a colorful bed of shredded cabbage or Asian slaw for a visually stunning platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for next-day meals or quick snacks.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken skewers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a sealed freezer bag. For best quality, consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to retain that juicy texture.

Reheating

Reheat your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers gently in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, turning once. This method helps maintain the crisp edges and tender inside without drying out the chicken. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture and flavor!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat, but keep in mind that thighs stay juicier and less prone to drying out during cooking, which is ideal for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating helps the spices penetrate the chicken, enhancing the overall flavor and tenderness. If you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute rest will still improve the taste compared to no marination at all.

Can I grill these skewers instead of air frying?

Definitely! Grilling is a fantastic option and adds a smoky char that pairs wonderfully with the Bang Bang sauce. Just watch the cooking time closely to avoid overcooking.

How spicy are these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

The heat level is moderate because of the combination of sweet chili sauce and hot sauce, but you can easily adjust the spice by adding more or less hot sauce to suit your taste buds.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce vegan?

For a vegan twist, try substituting the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayo and ensuring your sweet chili sauce is free from animal products. The rest of the sauce ingredients should work well with these adjustments.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a celebration of vibrant flavors, juicy textures, and easy prep that will brighten up any meal. Once you try them, I’m confident they’ll become one of your go-to recipes for both weeknight dinners and entertaining friends. So grab those skewers, whip up that luscious Bang Bang sauce, and get ready for a taste experience you won’t forget!

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