Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

This bang bang chicken skewer recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an explosion of sweet and spicy flavors that will leave your guests begging for more. The combination of creamy, sweet, and spicy elements creates an irresistible dish that works perfectly as an appetizer or main course when paired with sides.

I first made these skewers for a backyard gathering when I needed something that would please both spice lovers and those with milder preferences. The customizable heat level and the visually striking presentation made them an instant hit, and they've become my go-to recipe when entertaining.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: provides the perfect canvas for bold flavors and cooks quickly
• Olive oil: helps chicken stay juicy and aids in browning
• Paprika: adds a subtle smoky depth and beautiful color
• Garlic powder: infuses savory notes throughout the chicken
• Kosher salt: enhances all flavors and helps tenderize the meat
• Black pepper: adds a gentle heat and complexity
• Mayonnaise: creates the creamy base for the bang bang sauce
• Thai sweet chili sauce: brings sweetness and mild heat with complex flavor
• Sriracha: delivers customizable spice level with bright pepper flavor
• Honey: balances the heat with natural sweetness and helps sauce cling to chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season Chicken:

Mix the chicken cubes thoroughly with olive oil and seasonings in a large bowl. Make sure every piece is evenly coated for consistent flavor. The oil helps the seasonings adhere to the meat and contributes to a lovely exterior when cooked. Take your time during this step to ensure no pieces are left unseasoned.

Thread Onto Skewers:

Arrange 4-5 chicken cubes on each skewer with small spaces between pieces to ensure even cooking. If using wooden skewers, soaking them prevents burning during cooking. Metal skewers work wonderfully for this recipe if you have them. Try to make each skewer roughly the same size for consistent cooking times.

Prepare Bang Bang Sauce:

Whisk together all sauce ingredients until completely smooth and uniform in a medium bowl. The sauce should have a pale orange hue and pourable consistency. Dividing the sauce is crucial to prevent cross contamination. Set aside about half for serving and use the remainder for basting during cooking.

Cook The Skewers:

Select your preferred cooking method based on convenience and available equipment. The air fryer produces the crispiest exterior in the shortest time. For oven baking, place skewers on a rack over a baking sheet for better air circulation. When grilling, avoid high flames that can burn the exterior before the interior cooks through.

Serve And Enjoy:

After cooking, immediately brush with fresh bang bang sauce while still hot. This allows the sauce to slightly warm and meld with the chicken. Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for extra visual appeal if desired.

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The Thai sweet chili sauce is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered it years ago when trying to recreate a restaurant dish, and now I keep a bottle in my refrigerator at all times. The complex sweet heat it provides cannot be matched by attempting to make your own substitute. My family knows that when they see this bottle come out of the refrigerator, something delicious is about to happen.

Make Ahead Options

These skewers are perfect for meal prep. Season and skewer the chicken up to 24 hours ahead, storing covered in the refrigerator. The bang bang sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container. This preparation makes these skewers ideal for entertaining, as you can have everything ready to go before guests arrive and simply cook when ready to serve.

Flavor Variations

While the recipe as written delivers a perfect balance of flavors, you can customize to suit your preferences. For a spicier version, double the Sriracha or add a teaspoon of chili oil to the sauce. For a more complex flavor profile, add a tablespoon of grated ginger to the chicken seasoning. You can also substitute boneless chicken thighs for a richer, more succulent result, though cooking time may increase slightly.

Serving Suggestions

These skewers pair beautifully with coconut rice or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal. For an appetizer spread, serve alongside vegetable spring rolls and edamame. The sauce is also delicious drizzled over steamed vegetables or as a dipping sauce for sweet potato fries. Consider serving on a bed of mixed greens tossed with sesame dressing for a lighter option.

Storage And Reheating

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, remove the chicken from the skewers and warm in a skillet over medium heat until just heated through. Microwaving is convenient but may result in slightly tougher chicken. Store extra sauce separately and bring to room temperature before using.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is Bang Bang sauce made of?

Bang Bang sauce is a creamy blend of mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey, offering a balance of sweetness and spice.

→ How do I cook the chicken skewers?

You can cook them in an air fryer at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or grill over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes per side.

→ Can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?

Yes, you can reduce or increase the Sriracha to suit your heat preference.

→ Do I need to soak wooden skewers?

Yes, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using to prevent them from burning.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken in advance. Cook the skewers just before serving for the best flavor and texture.