Bang Bang Chicken Skewers – The Ultimate Flavor-Packed Recipe Guide

If you’re craving a bold, spicy, and creamy twist on grilled chicken, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the answer. These juicy, perfectly charred bites are coated in a signature sauce that balances sweetness, heat, and tang like nothing else. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard gathering or prepping a weeknight dinner, this dish brings restaurant-style flavor home.

What Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

What is Bang Bang chicken?

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun, modern spin on the traditional Szechuan dish, featuring grilled chicken pieces threaded onto skewers and drizzled with creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce. Originally a cold shredded chicken dish from China, it has since evolved into a popular Americanized appetizer known for its sweet heat and crave-worthy texture.

A quick history and its flavor origin

This dish fuses Asian flavors with American BBQ vibes—garlic, sriracha, mayo, and honey make it irresistible. Today, it’s a party favorite, ideal for dipping, sharing, or serving over rice.

Ingredients for the Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

The essential items you’ll need

To make authentic and mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, here’s a list of must-have ingredients:

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Skewers:

• Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak for 30 minutes to avoid burning)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• Pinch of salt

These ingredients create the ideal balance of creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor that makes Bang Bang chicken so addictive. The chicken is marinated to stay juicy on the grill, while the sauce coats every bite with irresistible heat and tang.

Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, lightly dust the marinated chicken in cornstarch before grilling or baking.

Discover great ideas like the Carmel Salt Pancakes or Waffle Mix to round out your menu with something sweet.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers at Home

Step-by-step instructions for marination and grilling

1. Prepare the Chicken:
Cut 1½ lbs of chicken breast or thighs into even 1-inch cubes. Pat dry to ensure a crisp sear.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Toss chicken in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

3. Skewer the Chicken:
Thread 4–5 cubes onto each skewer. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand.

4. Grill the Skewers:
Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Cook skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes for even cooking. Internal temp should reach 165°F.

5. Add the Sauce:
While still hot, brush or drizzle skewers generously with Bang Bang sauce.

6. Optional Finishing Touches:
Garnish with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime.

Bang Bang Sauce – The Star of the Show

What does Bang Bang sauce consist of?

Ingredients for Classic Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (add more for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)

How to Make It:

1. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together all ingredients until smooth and creamy.

2. Adjust to Taste:
Want it spicier? Add more sriracha. Sweeter? A bit more honey. Creamier? Extra mayo does the trick.

3. Chill Before Serving:
Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

This sauce delivers a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy—ideal for coating grilled chicken skewers, dipping, or even spreading on sandwiches.

Check out The Ultimate Guide to Slutty Brownie Recipe for a dessert just as bold.

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Variations You’ll Love

1. Spicy Variation

Add crushed red pepper flakes or double the sriracha in the sauce for extra heat lovers.

2. Air Fryer Option

Instead of grilling, cook the skewers in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway for crisp, even texture.

3. Keto-Friendly Twist

Replace honey with stevia or monk fruit syrup and use avocado oil mayo to keep it low-carb.

4. Vegetarian Version

Swap chicken with tofu cubes, mushrooms, or cauliflower florets. Marinate and cook the same way.

5. Kid-Friendly Mild Version

Reduce or omit sriracha in the sauce and add a touch of ketchup for a milder, sweeter taste kids love.

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are versatile, customizable, and suit nearly every dietary need.

Best Sides to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

1. Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice

The creamy, spicy sauce pairs perfectly with plain rice to balance the heat.

2. Crunchy Asian Slaw

A refreshing mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds crisp texture and tang.

3. Garlic Noodles or Ramen

For a heartier pairing, toss noodles in garlic butter or sesame oil to complement the savory skewers.

4. Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini create a colorful, nutrient-packed plate.

5. Dipping Sauces & Extras

Serve extra Bang Bang sauce, a spicy peanut dip, or a cooling yogurt-mint sauce on the side.

6. Skewer-Friendly Salads

Try a cucumber-avocado salad or Thai mango salad to keep things fresh and tropical.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

1. Party Platter Style

Arrange skewers on a large serving board. Garnish with chopped scallions, lime wedges, and sesame seeds for visual appeal.

2. Individual Skewer Cups

Place each skewer upright in a small cup with a scoop of rice or slaw—perfect for parties or BBQs.

3. On a Bed of Greens

Serve over a bed of mixed greens or arugula, drizzled with extra Bang Bang sauce for a vibrant lunch option.

4. Mini Skewers for Appetizers

Use toothpicks or 4-inch skewers for bite-sized portions. Ideal for appetizers or tasting platters.

5. Layered Bowls

Create build-your-own bowls: start with rice, add skewers, then toppings like avocado, cucumber, or shredded carrots.

6. Garnishing Tips

Finish with microgreens, crushed peanuts, or a light chili oil drizzle for extra flair.

Looking for more creative meal ideas? Check out Carmel Salt Pancakes or Waffle Mix.

Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips

Storage

Refrigerate leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store sauce separately to maintain texture.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or use a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep chicken from drying out.

Meal Prep

Marinate chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Skewer and store uncooked in the fridge. Prepare Bang Bang sauce ahead—it lasts 5–6 days refrigerated.

FAQs About Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the ultimate blend of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors—perfect for parties, quick dinners, or creative meal prep. With a few simple ingredients and a bold, irresistible sauce, you can transform basic chicken into a crave-worthy dish. Whether you grill, air-fry, or bake them, these skewers deliver every time.

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