Delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: A Must-Try Recipe!
If you’re on the lookout for a scrumptious new addition to your collection of appetizers or a quick weeknight dinner, these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are just the thing! They come together effortlessly in the oven, grill, or air fryer, featuring tender chicken and a flavor-packed bang bang sauce that will keep everyone coming back for more!
What Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are delightful appetizers made with juicy, seasoned chicken pieces. They’re drizzled with a sweet and spicy Bang Bang Sauce crafted from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, paprika, ginger, and pepper.
The creamy, mayo-based bang bang sauce truly steals the spotlight in this recipe. It’s a simple yet delicious complement for meats, seafood, and so much more, and it enhances the flavor of any dish it graces.
These chicken kabobs make for a fantastic appetizer at parties or can serve as a tasty main course. The unique flavor of the bang bang sauce ensures the chicken remains juicy and full of flavor.
Why This Recipe is the Best ❤️
These chicken skewers, paired with a sweet and tangy bang bang sauce, are sure to be a crowd-pleaser whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a casual dinner at home. Plus, they come together in under 30 minutes!
- Bang Bang Sauce: This flavorful sauce requires just a handful of ingredients. While the version in this recipe is mild, feel free to tweak it to match your taste preferences.
- Grill, Bake, or Air Fry: The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—you can grill, bake, or air fry the skewers, making them perfect for any season.
- Great for Meal Prep: Preparing the chicken skewers in advance is a great way to save time during busy weeknights. They pair wonderfully with rice, roasted veggies, or fresh salad. Season the chicken and make the sauce in advance, then store them until you’re ready to cook!
Here’s what some of our readers think about this chicken recipe:
“These were absolutely delicious! My son and hubby loved them so much I’ve made them three times already!” – Isaida
“Amazing! My whole family was a fan. I baked them for 20 minutes, and they turned out perfect. I let the chicken marinate for two hours in the dressing beforehand, and it was so tender and juicy! 🤤” – Ava
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses just a few simple ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your kitchen.
Note: The full list of ingredients with measurements is provided in the recipe card below.
- Chicken: A mix of boneless skinless chicken thighs and shredded chicken breasts works beautifully, but feel free to use what you have on hand.
- Seasonings: You’ll need paprika, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Mayonnaise: This serves as the creamy base for the bang bang sauce. You could switch it out for sour cream or Greek yogurt if you prefer.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This ingredient adds a burst of flavor to the sauce. In a pinch, you can combine equal parts honey and hot sauce to achieve that sweet and spicy kick.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low sodium soy sauce to keep the flavors balanced.
- Garnish (Optional): Fresh herbs like scallions, cilantro, or parsley work beautifully as garnish.
You can enjoy the bang bang chicken skewers on their own or paired with a side like rice.
Steps to Make Bang Bang Chicken 😋
This easy recipe comes together with just a few quick steps, resulting in tender chicken and a creamy sauce.
Before you begin, remember to soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, paprika, and ground ginger until everything is well combined.
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) or set your air fryer to 400°F (205°C). Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes and season them thoroughly with paprika, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Make the Skewers: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, alternating between chicken breast and thigh. Baste the skewers with the bang bang sauce and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (or in the air fryer basket).
- Cook the Skewers: Bake the skewers for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked—an instant-read thermometer should read 165°F. Alternatively, air fry the skewers for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve: Once cooked, baste with some extra sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and serve hot!
Grilling Instructions
If you prefer a lovely char on your chicken, grilling is a fantastic option!
Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and grill the skewers for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and registers 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Type of Chicken: For juicier chicken, use thighs, or a combination of thighs and breasts. Ensure uniformity in size when cutting for even cooking.
- Add Heat: If you enjoy a spicy kick, mix in some sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also increase the heat according to your taste preference.
- Wooden vs. Metal Skewers: Both work well! Just ensure to soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking. If you have longer skewers, feel free to break them in half.
- Use a Thermometer: For best results, check for doneness using an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest piece of chicken. Cooking times can vary based on your oven or air fryer.
- Leftover Sauce: The recipe yields plenty of bang bang sauce. Use any leftovers on shrimp or salmon or as a delicious dipping sauce!
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
Storage: Cooked chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best quality, remove them from the skewers when storing.
When ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or grill until warmed through.
Prep Ahead: Season the chicken and assemble the skewers, storing them separately from the sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to cook, use one bowl of sauce to baste, then finish with the remaining sauce after cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can be enjoyed on their own as a delicious appetizer, or served alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying meal. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- White rice for a comforting base
- Roasted or steamed vegetables for added nutrients
- A light salad to freshen up the dish
Feel free to mix and match to create your perfect meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. How can I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before consuming.
- 2. Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in advance?
- Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and keep them separate in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
- 3. What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the Bang Bang Sauce?
- You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream if you’re looking for a lighter or lower-calorie option.
- 4. How do I make the sauce spicier?
- Add a dash of sriracha, crushed red pepper flakes, or cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick!
- 5. What are some good side dishes to serve with these skewers?
- These skewers pair wonderfully with rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
