Juicy chicken cubes are seasoned, skewered, and grilled (or baked/air‑fried) to perfection, then generously coated with a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet “bang bang” sauce that balances heat and flavor for a dish that works as appetizer, snack, or main.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines crisp, savory chicken with a luscious sauce that’s creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet

• Versatile cooking methods — grill, oven, or air fryer — so you can make it indoors or outdoors

• Easy enough for weeknight dinners, but impressive enough for guests

• Customizable in heat level and presentation (add veggies on skewers, alter spice)

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Skewers:

• Chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite‑sized cubes

• Olive oil

• Garlic powder

• Smoked paprika

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Wooden skewers (soaked in water prior to use)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• Mayonnaise

• Sweet chili sauce

• Sriracha (adjust to taste)

• Honey

• Lime juice

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

   • Cut the chicken into cubes so pieces cook evenly.

   • Toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well coated.

   • Let it marinate at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for more flavor).

2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce

   • In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice.

   • Adjust the amount of sriracha to control spiciness.

   • Set aside while cooking the chicken so flavors meld.

3. Assemble the Skewers

   • Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers.

   • Optionally, alternate with vegetables (bell peppers, onions, zucchini) for extra texture and color.

4. Cook the Chicken (choose one method)

   • Grill Method: Preheat the grill to medium‑high. Cook skewers 4–5 minutes per side, until cooked through and nicely charred.

   • Oven Method: Preheat to 400 °F (≈ 200 °C). Place skewers on a lined baking sheet. Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway.

   • Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 375 °F (≈ 190 °C). Place skewers in basket and cook 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

5. Serve

   • Drizzle the bang bang sauce over cooked skewers or serve it on the side for dipping.

   • Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Makes enough for about 4 servings (depending on appetite).

• Prep time: ~15 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Cook time:
   — Grill: ~8–10 minutes (4–5 min per side)
   — Oven: ~20–25 minutes
   — Air fryer: ~12–15 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier results

• Alternate vegetables (bell pepper, red onion, zucchini) on skewers

• Swap sriracha for a milder hot sauce or reduce it for less heat

• Add herbs or spices (cumin, chili powder, smoked salt) to the marinade

• Make a spicy version by increasing sriracha or adding chili flakes

• Make a lighter version by using lighter mayonnaise or half mayo + Greek yogurt

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cooked skewers and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating:
   • Grill or broil briefly to reheat and crisp edges
   • Oven: warm at ~350 °F (≈ 175 °C) for 5–7 minutes
   • Air fryer: 3–5 minutes at 350 °F (≈ 175 °C)

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs are actually ideal for this recipe because they tend to stay more moist and flavorful when cooked.

2. Can I make the skewers ahead of time?

You can marinate and even assemble the skewers ahead, but it’s best to cook them just before serving to maintain crispness and freshness.

3. What if I don’t have an air fryer or grill?

No problem — you can use the oven method. The skewers still turn out delicious when baked.

4. How can I make the sauce less spicy?

Reduce or omit the sriracha, or use a mild chili sauce in its place.

5. Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes all make great additions and roast well alongside the chicken.

6. Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?

Yes — soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning on the grill or in the oven.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply adjust ingredient amounts accordingly and ensure your grill/oven can accommodate the extra skewers.

8. Can I use a different sauce base?

You could try substituting part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier profile, though it alters the texture slightly.

9. How do I tell when the chicken is done?

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 °F (≈ 74 °C). It should be opaque and juices run clear.

10. Can I freeze leftover skewers?

You can freeze cooked, cooled skewers (without sauce) in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a fun, flavorful, and versatile recipe you’ll turn to again and again. The combination of tender, seasoned chicken and that creamy, spicy bang bang sauce creates a crowd‑pleasing dish that works for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or snacks. With options for grilling, baking, or air frying, anyone can make it. Adjust heat, add veggies, or tweak ingredients to suit your taste — and enjoy!