Love Bang Bang Chicken Skewers? Then you’re in for a treat! These crispy, juicy, and slightly spicy chicken skewers are coated in a rich, creamy Bang Bang sauce that makes them absolutely irresistible. Whether you grill, bake, or air fry them, they’re always a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Let’s dive into the best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe you’ll ever try!
These skewers are perfect for summer BBQs, quick weeknight dinners, or even meal prep. Plus, they’re super easy to make! So, grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and let’s get cooking.
If you’re a fan of delicious chicken dishes, you might also love this comforting Chicken and Dressing Recipe.
What Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
If you love spicy, crispy chicken skewers, this dish will become your new favorite. The magic behind Bang Bang Chicken Skewers lies in two things:
- The perfectly grilled chicken – marinated, juicy, and packed with flavor.
- The famous Bang Bang sauce – a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce that takes these skewers to another level.
Originally inspired by Sichuan-style Bang Bang Chicken, this version gives it a modern twist with an irresistible balance of crunch and creamy heat.
“Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the perfect mix of smoky, spicy, and creamy goodness in every bite.”
The Secret Behind the Famous Bang Bang Sauce
What makes Bang Bang Chicken Skewers truly special? The sauce! It’s creamy, slightly sweet, and has just the right amount of heat.
So, what’s in this magical sauce? Just a few simple ingredients:
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base that gives it a rich texture.
- Sweet chili sauce – Adds a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.
- Sriracha – For that signature kick.
- Honey – Just a touch for extra depth.
- Lime juice – Brightens up all the flavors.
Want it spicier? Add more sriracha. Prefer it sweeter? A little extra honey will do the trick. It’s completely customizable, which is what makes it so great!
Ingredients Needed for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Before we start cooking, let’s gather everything we need.
Essential Ingredients for the Chicken Marinade
To make the best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you need a flavor-packed marinade:
- Chicken breast or thighs – Boneless, skinless, and cut into chunks.
- Soy sauce – Adds deep umami.
- Garlic powder & onion powder – Essential seasoning for extra taste.
- Paprika – Gives a smoky, slightly spicy flavor.
- Honey – Helps caramelize the chicken.
- Lime juice – Enhances the marinade’s balance.
- Olive oil – Keeps the chicken moist and juicy.
For the best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for maximum flavor, go for 2-3 hours.icken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit for 2-3 hours. The longer, the better!
How to Make the Perfect Bang Bang Sauce
We already talked about how amazing bang bang sauce is, but let’s quickly go over how to make it.
Bang Bang Sauce Recipe:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Mix everything in a bowl until smooth. Taste and tweak based on your spice preference. Boom! Done.
“A good sauce can turn an ordinary meal into something unforgettable. Bang Bang Sauce does exactly that.”
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s put everything together.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
- In a large bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients.
- Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Skewering and Grilling Techniques for Juicy Chicken
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Preheat your grill (or stovetop grill pan) to medium-high heat.
- Grill the skewers for 5-6 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
Pro Tip: If you want extra crispy edges, brush a little honey on the skewers during the last few minutes of grilling!
Step 3: Alternative Cooking Methods – Air Fryer & Oven
No grill? No problem! Here’s how to cook them using different methods:
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning once.
Both methods still give you tender, flavorful skewers with that delicious charred look.
Common Problems and Solutions When Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Even the best cooks run into problems now and then. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them.
Why Is My Chicken Dry? How to Keep It Juicy
Nobody wants dry chicken. Here’s how to keep it tender and juicy:
- Don’t overcook it. Chicken cooks fast—pull it off the grill as soon as it reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Use chicken thighs. They have more fat, making them naturally juicier.
- Marinate longer. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more moisture it holds.
Quick Fix: If your chicken still turns out dry, brush on some extra Bang Bang Sauce to add moisture.
How to Get the Perfect Crispy Exterior Without Burning
Love crispy, charred edges? Here’s how to get them without burning the chicken:
- Medium-high heat is your best friend. Too high, and you’ll burn the outside before the inside cooks.
- Baste with honey or sweet chili sauce in the last few minutes for a caramelized crust.
- Flip the skewers often for even cooking.
Pro Tip: If your grill flares up, move the skewers to indirect heat until the flames settle.
Adjusting Spice Levels for Different Tastes
Not everyone likes spicy food. Here’s how to adjust the heat in Bang Bang Chicken Skewers:
- Less spice? Reduce or skip the sriracha in the sauce.
- More spice? Add extra sriracha, cayenne, or chili flakes.
- Mild but flavorful? Add a little more honey to balance the heat.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
What’s better than Bang Bang Chicken Skewers? A full meal! Here are some great sides:
Fresh Salads and Veggies for a Balanced Meal
Pairing these skewers with a fresh salad adds a refreshing crunch. Try:
- Cucumber & Avocado Salad – Light and creamy.
- Asian Slaw – Crunchy, tangy, and a perfect contrast to the spicy chicken.
- Grilled Veggies – Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus work beautifully.
Rice, Noodles, or Wraps? The Best Pairings
If you want something more filling, here are some great options:
- Coconut Rice – The sweetness pairs perfectly with Bang Bang Sauce.
- Garlic Noodles – A tasty, umami-packed side.
- Lettuce Wraps – Light, fresh, and low-carb!
“The best meals aren’t just about one dish—it’s about the perfect combination of flavors.”
Tips for Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare because these skewers disappear FAST), here’s how to store and reheat them properly.
How to Keep the Chicken Moist When Reheating
Nobody wants rubbery, dry chicken. Here’s how to reheat it properly:
- Microwave: Add a splash of water and cover with a damp paper towel.
- Oven: Reheat at 325°F (165°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Skillet: Add a little oil and heat on medium until warm.
Avoid the Air Fryer: It can dry out the chicken quickly.
Freezing and Meal Prep Ideas for Busy Days
Want to prep ahead? Here’s how:
- Before Cooking: Marinate the chicken, then freeze it in a ziplock bag. Thaw before grilling.
- After Cooking: Freeze cooked skewers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe
And that’s a wrap! Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are:
Juicy and flavorful
Super easy to make
Perfect for grilling, air frying, or baking
A total crowd-pleaser
So what are you waiting for? Grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and let the Bang Bang magic happen!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually a better choice if you want extra juiciness and flavor. They have more natural fat, which keeps them tender even after grilling. Just make sure to cut them into even-sized pieces for even cooking.
Q2. How spicy is Bang Bang Chicken?
It depends on how much sriracha and chili sauce you use. By default, Bang Bang Sauce has a mild kick, but if you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the sriracha or replace it with ketchup for a milder version. If you love heat, add extra chili flakes or cayenne pepper!
Q3. Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in advance?
Yes! Here’s how:
- Marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the fridge.
- Prep the skewers in advance, then cover them and keep them chilled until you’re ready to grill.
- The Bang Bang Sauce can be made 3-4 days ahead and stored in the fridge.
This makes it a great meal prep recipe!
Q4. What’s the best way to cook these skewers indoors?
If you don’t have a grill, try these methods:
- Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning once.
- Stovetop Grill Pan: Cook over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side.
All of these will still give you crispy, flavorful chicken skewers!
Q5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers gluten-free:
- Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Make sure your sweet chili sauce is gluten-free.
- Check labels on your mayo and other ingredients to be safe.
With just a couple of swaps, you can enjoy this recipe worry-free!