Bang Bang Chicken Skewers – The Ultimate Flavor-Packed Recipe Guide
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are savory grilled chicken bites coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce an easy, crowd-pleasing comfort food perfect for any occasion.
The aroma of smoky spice fills your kitchen, while every skewer invites you in with crispy edges and a silky, tangy drizzle that lingers on your lips. I remember the first time I made these for a few friends; we stood around the counter, swiping extra sauce from the platter, laughing one of those simple moments that just feels like home.
What makes these skewers special is their versatility: air fryer, oven, or grill, plus that signature bang bang sauce, customizable for any taste or diet. I can’t wait for you to serve up this feel-good favorite let’s dive right in and get cooking!
Why These Skewers Are Seriously Crave-Worthy
- Crispy meets creamy perfection: Every skewer is packed with juicy chicken that’s kissed by the grill (or air fryer!) until the edges turn golden and slightly crisp, then drenched in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce you’ll want to lick off your fingers.
- Made for moments together: Whether you lay out a platter at a sun-dappled summer cookout or cozy up indoors on a chilly weeknight, these skewers turn any table into a mini celebration.
- A comforting twist with a wink: The rich, nostalgic flavors of home-cooked chicken combine with a playful sauce that brings a tingle of heat and a touch of sweetness a little “wow” moment in every bite.
- Everyday unforgettable: At Nessy Recipes, we believe meals should feel joyful and memorable. These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers do just that, turning simple cooking into pure, feel-good delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless pieces keep things tender, juicy, and super easy to work with.
- Extra virgin olive oil – Adds subtle richness and helps those smoky spices cling beautifully to the chicken.
- Paprika & garlic powder – This classic duo gives a warm, savory backbone and that gorgeous golden hint as the chicken cooks.
- Kosher salt & black pepper – Simple pantry mainstays that wake up all the flavors.
- Mayonnaise – The key to an ultra-creamy, luscious bang bang sauce that hugs every bite.
- Thai sweet chili sauce – Brings a sweet and tangy kick with just the right sticky glaze.
- Sriracha – Hello, gentle heat and a pop of color feel free to adjust for your spice level.
- Honey – Adds a dreamy drizzle of sweetness that makes the sauce feel truly “lick-the-bowl” irresistible.
- Wooden skewers – Essential for threading the chicken, giving you those perfectly charred, handheld bites.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
- Prep and Season the Chicken: Start by tossing your chicken cubes in a bowl with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let all those warm spices blend into every bite it’ll smell inviting before you even start cooking.
- Skewer Time: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly; leaving a bit of space helps each chunk get a little crisp and caramelized edge.
- Mix Up the Sauce: Whisk together mayo, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until it’s silky and peachy-pink. This sauce is creamy, tangy, and sweet utterly irresistible.
- Sauce and Brush: Split your sauce in half. Use one portion to brush over the raw skewers, getting every surface deliciously coated.
- Cook to Perfection: Pop the skewers in your air fryer or oven or grill making sure they sit in a single layer so those edges turn beautifully golden and crispy.
- Finishing Touches: Once cooked through and glossy, brush or drizzle the remaining sauce on top. It gives the perfect creamy “bang” to contrast the crispy, juicy chicken.
For another flavor-packed skewer, try these Grilled Cowboy Butter Chicken Skewers next!
Tips for the Best Results
- Let the marinade do its magic: Give the chicken cubes a proper rest in their paprika and garlic bath. Even a short marinade infuses so much flavor and helps keep each bite beautifully juicy as it cooks.
- Shortcut for busy nights: If you’re short on time, a quick toss in the spices and oil right before skewering won’t ruin the vibe. The bold bang bang sauce will swoop in to deliver those iconic flavors.
- Dial in your sauce: Taste your sauce and tweak the Sriracha or honey if you like it a bit spicier or sweeter. That perfect balance between creamy, tangy, and heat is what makes these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers so irresistible.
- Choose your cooking adventure: Craving that smoky char? Fire up the grill. Raining outside or keeping it easy? The oven or air fryer gives crispy edges and juicy chicken every time. Both ways bring those golden, crave-worthy results to your own kitchen.
Flavor Swaps & Ingredient Variations
Gluten-Free Swap: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you double-check that your sweet chili sauce and Sriracha are certified GF. Just a quick pantry peek, and you’re good to go!
Make It Dairy-Free: Ditch regular mayo for your favorite dairy-free or vegan alternative. Everything stays just as creamy, spicy, and bold no flavor lost, just comfort made accessible.
Vegetarian Version: Tofu cubes or even cauliflower florets work delightfully in place of chicken marinate and cook the same way for golden, craveable bites coated in that dreamy sauce.
Switch Up The Protein: Try peeled shrimp, cubes of salmon, or even pork tenderloin in place of chicken. Each option soaks up the Bang Bang flavors for a fun, fresh spin.
Personalize With Sauces: Not in the mood for sweet chili? Sub in your favorite BBQ or teriyaki for something new. For more globally-inspired twists, check out these Greek Chicken Gyros for more easy skewer ideas.
Let your kitchen be a playground Bang Bang style!
How to Store Leftovers
- Fridge Storage: Place leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them juicy and fresh for a few days. The sauce may loosen a bit but stays delicious!
- Freezer Friendly: For longer storage, freeze cooked skewers (sauce separated) in a freezer bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
- Reheating Tips: Rewarm skewers in an oven or air fryer to bring back some crispy edges. Warm the sauce separately and drizzle it on just before serving for that “freshly made” flavor.
- Keep It Cozy: If you’re a fan of meal prep, these skewers are just as comforting the next day. For more cozy meal ideas, check out One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice.
How to Serve These
- Picnic-Ready Platters: Pack these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers into a basket with crisp cucumber slices, carrot ribbons, and your favorite dipping sauce for a fresh-air picnic that feels extra special.
- Easy Weeknight Dinner: Serve the skewers over fluffy jasmine rice or a bed of greens for a meal that’s comforting but totally doable, even on busy nights.
- Game Day Crowd-Pleaser: Set them out as finger food with extra bang bang sauce on the side and watch them disappear in minutes perfect for munching during the big game.
- Family-Style Feast: Arrange skewers on a generous platter surrounded by cozy sides like roasted veggies or soft flatbreads. For another soul-warming option, try Chicken Chasseur to round out your family table.
- Mix & Match Sides: Pair with tangy slaw, garlic noodles, or roasted potatoes. Every bite invites gathering, laughter, and another round.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts, oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to evenly coat the chicken.
- Working one skewer at a time, thread 4-5 chicken cubes onto each.
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Mix well. This will make about 1 ¾ cups bang bang sauce.
- Pour half of the sauce into a separate bowl and set aside to use after the chicken has been cooked. Use the rest of the sauce to brush evenly over the chicken.
- Add the skewers to the basket of your air fryer in a single layer. (Depending on the size of the air fryer, you may have to work in batches.)
- Air fry at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Transfer the skewers to a plate and drizzle or brush with the reserved bang bang sauce. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Can I prepare Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in advance?
Absolutely! Marinate and thread the chicken onto skewers a day ahead, then pop them in the fridge. When you’re ready, just cook and drizzle with sauce. Your kitchen will fill with crave-worthy smells, and you’ll feel like a pro pulling off an effortless, joyful meal.
What veggies work best to add to these skewers?
Bell peppers, red onion chunks, and zucchini slices taste wonderful tucked between the chicken pieces. They get slightly charred and tender, soaking up all that luscious sauce. It’s a simple way to add color, crunch, and a little extra heartiness to every skewer.
How do I keep wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading on the chicken. This extra step keeps them from scorching during cooking and gives you those golden, perfectly grabbable skewers. You’ll love how cozy and homey they look when served.
Can I make these less spicy for kids?
Definitely! Just use less Sriracha in the sauce or skip it altogether for a milder, creamy finish. You’ll still get that signature tangy-sweet bang from the chili sauce. Everyone at the table, little or grown, can enjoy their own perfect level of heat.
