Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the perfect blend of spicy and sweet, making them a delightful choice for any gathering or weeknight dinner. These skewers are easy to prepare, full of flavor, and can be grilled or air-fried to suit your cooking preferences. With their vibrant bang bang sauce, these chicken skewers will impress family and friends alike, ensuring they become a staple at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, these skewers are perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and the tangy bang bang sauce provides a delicious kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer grilling or using an air fryer, this recipe works beautifully with both methods.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect as an appetizer for parties or as a main dish for family dinners.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the Sriracha and cayenne pepper to match your spice tolerance.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers
• Large bowl
• Medium bowl
• Grill or air fryer
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: These are necessary for threading the chicken pieces, making them easy to cook and serve.
• Large bowl: Ideal for mixing the chicken with oil and spices thoroughly.
• Medium bowl: Great for preparing the bang bang sauce separately before applying it to the chicken.

Ingredients

Grilled or air-fried spicy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers seasoned and slathered with sweet and tangy bang bang sauce and cooked to perfection.

Ingredients:
– 1½-2 lbs chicken thighs, cubed into 1 inch pieces (see notes)
– 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp black pepper
– ½ tsp cayenne pepper
– ½ tsp salt
– 2 Tbsp hot honey (see notes)
– 1 cup mayonnaise (more as needed)
– 2 Tbsp lime juice, fresh squeezed
– ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
– ¼ cup Sriracha (use less or more as desired for heat level)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken thighs with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss until all pieces are well coated.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

Working one skewer at a time, thread chunks of chicken onto each skewer until about half to three-fourths full. In another medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice until well combined. This will create about 1.5 cups of bang bang sauce.

Step 3: Apply Sauce Before Cooking

Pour half of the prepared sauce into a separate bowl for later use. Add the skewers to a baking sheet. Use the remaining sauce to brush evenly over the chicken skewers.

Step 4: Grill Instructions

For grilling, place the seasoned chicken skewers on a preheated grill over medium-high heat. Brush them with some of the reserved sauce. Grill for 15–20 minutes while turning often until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Continue brushing with sauce until finished.

Step 5: Air Fryer Instructions

If using an air fryer, lay the skewers in a single layer in the basket (you may need to work in batches). Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. They are done once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer to a plate and drizzle with reserved bang bang sauce along with hot honey if desired. Serve immediately!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fantastic dish for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will impress your guests and elevate your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens: Serve the skewers on a bed of mixed greens tossed with a light vinaigrette.
• Coleslaw: Pair with crunchy coleslaw for added texture and flavor.

On Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed Rice: Offer over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious bang bang sauce.
• Quinoa Bowl: For a healthier option, serve atop a quinoa base, garnished with fresh herbs.

As Appetizers

• Mini Skewers: Cut the chicken into smaller pieces for bite-sized appetizers perfect for parties.
• Dipping Station: Create a platter with various dips alongside the skewers for a fun twist.

With Tacos

• Bang Bang Chicken Tacos: Use the chicken in soft tortillas topped with avocado and cilantro for a fusion delight.

On Charcuterie Boards

• Skewer Platter: Include Bang Bang Chicken Skewers on a charcuterie board with cheeses and crackers for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

To make your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers truly exceptional, consider these simple tips that can enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold marinating: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking to deepen the flavors.
• Even cooking: Cut chicken pieces uniformly to ensure even cooking on the grill or air fryer.
• Proper heat control: Maintain medium-high heat when grilling to achieve that perfect caramelization without drying out the chicken.
• Rest before serving: Allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain moisture.
• Adjust spice level: Customize the amount of Sriracha based on your heat preference; start small and adjust as needed.
• Garnish creatively: Finish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for an extra pop of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their bold flavors. Here’s a list of sides that will round out your meal perfectly.

1. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut-infused rice adds sweetness that balances the spicy chicken.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled alongside enhance both color and nutrition on your plate.
3. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up excess bang bang sauce or enjoy as a tasty accompaniment.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is an excellent summer side that pairs well with grilled meats.
5. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots drizzled in sesame dressing adds freshness.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are perfect for dipping in extra sauce.

With these serving ideas and side dishes, your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers will be a hit at any gathering!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to less flavorful skewers. Make sure you let the chicken sit with the seasonings and oil for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much chicken on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Leave some space between pieces to ensure they cook properly and develop that delicious caramelized exterior.
• Not checking the internal temperature: Failing to check if the chicken has reached 165°F can result in undercooked meat. Always use a meat thermometer for safety and perfect doneness.
• Using low-quality sauce: Poor-quality sauces can ruin the dish’s flavor. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients in your bang bang sauce for a truly delicious experience.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking times can vary based on equipment and chicken size. Keep an eye on your skewers while grilling or air frying for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Allow them to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

• Wrap individual skewers in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, ensuring not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the skewers and cover with a lid, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers spicier?

To increase the heat, add more Sriracha or cayenne pepper to your marinade or sauce. You can also try using spicy honey instead of regular hot honey.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but keep in mind that they may dry out quicker due to lower fat content. Marinating is crucial in this case!

How do I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them wrapped tightly for up to 3 months.

What side dishes pair well with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

These skewers go well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. The sweet and spicy flavors complement a variety of sides beautifully.

Final Thoughts

The Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are not only full of flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion—from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize them by adding different proteins or adjusting the spice levels according to your taste preferences. Try this delicious recipe today and enjoy every savory bite!