Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a lively backyard barbecue. These skewers feature juicy chicken thighs marinated in a blend of spices and grilled or air-fried to perfection. The standout feature is the sweet and spicy bang bang sauce that elevates this dish to new heights. You will love how easy it is to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings or family meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and bang bang sauce creates a deliciously bold flavor.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, these skewers are ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Grill or air fry—both methods yield perfectly cooked chicken.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, these skewers are sure to impress your guests.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the Sriracha and hot honey levels to suit your spice preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet (for grilling)
• Air fryer
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for threading and grilling chicken, ensuring even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for combining ingredients and preparing your bang bang sauce.
• Air fryer: Cooks chicken evenly while keeping it juicy, with less oil than traditional frying.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you will need the following 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

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

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

Step 2: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. This will create about 1.5 cups of bang bang sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread chunks of marinated chicken onto the skewers until they are about ½ to ¾ filled.

Step 4: Apply Sauce Before Cooking

Pour half of the prepared sauce into a separate bowl for later use. Brush the remaining sauce over the assembled chicken skewers thoroughly.

Step 5: Cooking on the Grill

Grill over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes. Turn frequently until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Continue brushing with leftover sauce while grilling for maximum flavor.

Step 6: Air Fry Method

Place skewers in a single layer in your air fryer basket (you may need to work in batches). Air fry at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that each skewer reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

After cooking by either method, drizzle with reserved bang bang sauce and add hot honey if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing dinner for your family, these skewers can be served with a variety of sides and accompaniments to enhance their flavor.

As an Appetizer

• Serve the skewers on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating. Pair with extra bang bang sauce for dipping.

With Fresh Salad

• A light, fresh salad can balance the heat of the skewers. Try a simple green salad with lime vinaigrette.

In Tacos

• Use the chicken skewers as filling for soft tacos. Add fresh veggies and drizzle with additional sauce for a flavorful meal.

On Rice Bowls

• Serve the skewers over a bed of rice. Top with steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.

As Part of a BBQ Feast

• Include Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in your BBQ spread. They complement grilled corn and coleslaw perfectly.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces alongside the skewers, such as ranch or blue cheese, to cater to different taste preferences.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

To ensure your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Select fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Marinate Overnight: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix overnight before cooking.
• Even Skewering: Make sure to thread the chicken evenly onto the skewers to ensure even cooking.
• Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Brush with Sauce Regularly: While cooking, regularly brush the chicken with sauce to keep it moist and add extra flavor.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allow the cooked skewers to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture and enhances taste.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their spicy and tangy flavors. Here are some great side options:

1. Coconut Rice: This lightly sweet rice dish pairs well with the spice of the chicken skewers.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and grilled until charred make a colorful side.
3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter is a classic summer side that everyone loves.
5. Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa brings sweetness and acidity that balances the heat of the skewers.
6. Garlic Noodles: These savory noodles offer a hearty option that complements your meal beautifully.
7. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide comfort alongside your flavorful chicken.
8. Cucumber Salad: A cooling cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar is refreshing next to spicy skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some tips to ensure your skewers turn out perfectly.

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Always choose chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result. Chicken breasts can dry out quickly when grilled or air-fried.

• Skipping the marinade: If you don’t allow the chicken to marinate with the spices and oil, you may miss out on essential flavor. Make sure to let it sit for at least 15 minutes before cooking.

• Overcrowding the skewers: Placing too much chicken on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Keep a bit of space between pieces for better heat distribution.

• Ignoring internal temperature: To ensure safety and perfect texture, always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

• Not saving enough sauce: Reserving some bang bang sauce for serving is crucial. It adds moisture and flavor after cooking, so don’t use all of it before grilling or frying.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

• Place skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place skewers on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place skewers in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil. Cook skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are grilled or air-fried pieces of chicken thighs coated in a spicy, sweet sauce known as bang bang sauce. They are perfect for appetizers or dinner.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This enhances the flavor even more.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them alongside extra bang bang sauce for dipping.

How spicy are these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Adding less Sriracha will make them milder, while more will increase the heat significantly.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for alternatives that still work well with the bang bang sauce.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love. Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. Feel free to customize your skewers by adding vegetables or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste!