Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a must-try! They have become a family favorite in my home. The juicy chicken thighs are perfectly marinated and grilled to perfection, then tossed in a delightful sauce that balances sweetness with just the right amount of heat. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a fun gathering with friends, these skewers never fail to impress!

The beauty of this recipe is how simple it is while still delivering on taste. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and spicy flavors; it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Dish: Great for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings; serve them as an appetizer or main dish.
• Low-Carb Delight: A wonderful option for those watching their carbs without sacrificing flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for even easier prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers! You might already have most of them in your pantry.

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 get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless chicken breasts if you prefer white meat.
• Add some veggies: Thread some bell peppers or zucchini onto the skewers for extra color and nutrition.
• Change up the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or BBQ for a new twist.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add extra hot sauce or even sprinkle some red pepper flakes!

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook evenly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well coated. Letting it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes intensifies those delicious flavors!

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In another bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This unique sauce is what makes our Bang Bang Chicken Skewers so irresistible!

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread your marinated chicken cubes onto skewers. Leave a little space between each piece; this helps them cook evenly in the air fryer. Don’t overcrowd them—give them room to breathe!

Step 4: Air Frying Time!

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers in a single layer in the basket without overlapping. Brush them generously with some of that tasty Bang Bang sauce before cooking.

Step 5: Cook Until Perfectly Juicy

Air fry those delicious skewers for about 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking so they brown beautifully on all sides. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your chicken skewers are cooked to perfection, brush on a bit more of that luscious Bang Bang sauce before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or sesame seeds if you like! These skewers are best enjoyed hot alongside extra sauce for dipping.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Bang Bang Chicken Skewers! Grab some friends or family and dig in—these will surely be a hit at any table!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is a breeze, and with these handy tips, you can elevate your dish to a whole new level!

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) infuses more flavor into the meat, making each bite deliciously savory.
• Choose the Right Skewers: Opt for metal skewers or soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes before use. This prevents burning during cooking and helps in easy removal from the air fryer.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leaving space between chicken pieces allows hot air to circulate, ensuring that every piece cooks evenly and gets that delightful crispiness.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and condiments enhance flavors. If possible, choose high-quality mayonnaise and real honey for a richer tasting sauce.
• Adjust Spice Levels to Taste: Everyone’s spice tolerance is different! Start with a small amount of hot sauce in your Bang Bang sauce and adjust as necessary to find your perfect balance.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Presenting your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers beautifully can make them even more appealing. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Freshly Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the skewers.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds lend a nutty flavor and an appealing crunch, enhancing both texture and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These light and crunchy rolls are filled with fresh vegetables, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory skewers.
• Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs beautifully with the spicy sauce, creating a harmonious flavor combination that’s satisfying and delicious.
• Asian Cucumber Salad: A simple salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers in rice vinegar adds brightness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed lightly with olive oil and grilled until charred makes for a delightful side that brings out summer vibes.

With these serving suggestions, your meal will not only be tasty but also visually stunning! Enjoy your cooking adventure with these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers – they’re sure to impress friends and family alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time for a quick lunch or dinner during the week. Here’s how to properly store them for freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover skewers in an airtight container.
• Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have extra Bang Bang sauce, keep it in a separate container.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked chicken skewers to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container, and label with the date for reference.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat your skewers in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave: place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• If reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using one of the methods above.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers without mayonnaise?

Yes! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative to create a lighter version of the sauce without losing flavor.

What kind of chicken works best for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Choosing boneless skinless chicken thighs is ideal for these skewers as they remain juicy and tender during cooking. However, you can also use chicken breasts if you prefer white meat.

How spicy are these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Feel free to add more hot sauce for extra heat or reduce it if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I grill these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers instead of using an air fryer?

Absolutely! These skewers can be grilled over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Bang Bang Chicken Skewers as much as I do! They’re not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that will impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a tasty weeknight meal, these skewers are sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!