Spicy Sweet Chicken Skewers

This recipe transforms ordinary chicken into irresistible Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with a creamy, sweet-spicy sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The combination of tender chicken and that signature bang bang sauce creates a flavor explosion that works perfectly as an appetizer or main dish.

I first made these skewers for a neighborhood cookout when I was looking for something beyond basic grilled chicken. They disappeared so quickly I had to make a second batch and now they're requested at every gathering I host.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: the lean protein base that cooks quickly and evenly
• Olive oil: helps seasonings adhere and keeps chicken moist during cooking
• Paprika: adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken
• Garlic powder: provides aromatic depth without the risk of burning that fresh garlic has
• Kosher salt: enhances all flavors look for coarse kosher salt for best flavor distribution
• Black pepper: adds gentle heat that complements the sauce
• Mayonnaise: creates the creamy base for the signature bang bang sauce
• Thai sweet chili sauce: delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat
• Sriracha: adds customizable spice level use more or less depending on preference
• Honey: brings natural sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize beautifully
• Wooden skewers: makes for easy handling and elegant presentation

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Chicken

Combine the cubed chicken breast with olive oil in a large bowl ensuring each piece gets a light coating. Add the paprika garlic powder salt and pepper then toss thoroughly until every piece of chicken is evenly seasoned. The oil helps the spices adhere and keeps the chicken moist during cooking.

Skewer the Chicken

Thread 4 to 5 pieces of the seasoned chicken onto each soaked wooden skewer leaving a small space between pieces to ensure even cooking. Arrange them in a single layer as you work this makes them easier to handle during cooking.

Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

In a medium bowl whisk together the mayonnaise Thai sweet chili sauce Sriracha and honey until completely smooth and uniform in color. The sauce should have a pale orange hue with visible red flecks. Divide this mixture into two equal portions one for cooking and one for serving.

Apply First Sauce Layer

Using a pastry brush or spoon generously coat each skewer with the first half of the bang bang sauce making sure to cover all sides of the chicken. This initial layer will bake into the chicken creating a flavorful base.

Cook the Skewers

Place the sauced skewers in your air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook at 400°F for 11 to 12 minutes flipping the skewers halfway through cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has slight caramelization on the edges.

Finish and Serve

Remove the cooked skewers and immediately brush with the reserved bang bang sauce. This final layer provides fresh vibrant flavor that complements the cooked sauce beneath. Serve hot for the best flavor experience.

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The first time I made this recipe I accidentally doubled the Sriracha which created a fiery version my spiceloving brother declared the best chicken he had ever tasted. That happy accident taught me how versatile this recipe can be when adjusted to your heat preference.

Make-Ahead Tips

The bang bang sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This actually improves the flavor as the ingredients have time to meld together. You can even prepare the chicken and thread it onto skewers a day ahead just keep it covered in the refrigerator and apply the sauce just before cooking.

Perfect Pairings

These skewers complement many side dishes but particularly shine alongside cold noodle salads cucumber slices or a simple steamed rice. For a complete Asian fusion experience serve with pickled vegetables and a cilantro garnish. The cooling elements balance the rich creamy sauce perfectly.

Sauce Variations

The classic bang bang sauce is delicious but you can create interesting variations by adding grated ginger for brightness finely chopped cilantro for freshness or a splash of lime juice for tanginess. Some home cooks even add a tablespoon of peanut butter for a more satay-like flavor profile that adds richness and depth.

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Pro Tips

Allow chicken to come to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for more even results

For maximum flavor marinate the seasoned chicken for 2 hours before skewering

When serving for a party prepare extra sauce in a small bowl for additional dipping

Recipe FAQs

→ What is bang bang sauce made of?

Bang bang sauce is a creamy, sweet-spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. The combination creates a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors that coats the chicken beautifully.

→ Can I make these chicken skewers in the oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes! While an air fryer cooks them in about 12 minutes, you can also bake them in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Just be sure to flip them halfway through cooking.

→ Why do I need to soak wooden skewers before using them?

Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using prevents them from burning during the cooking process. This is especially important if you're using a grill or oven where the exposed parts of the skewers can catch fire.

→ Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Thread the chicken onto skewers just before cooking for best results.

→ Are these chicken skewers spicy?

These skewers have a moderate level of spice from the Sriracha and Thai sweet chili sauce in the bang bang sauce. You can adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the amount of Sriracha to suit your taste preferences.

→ What sides pair well with bang bang chicken skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with coconut rice, cucumber salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a complete Asian-fusion meal, consider serving them with stir-fried vegetables or cold sesame noodles.