Introduction

If you’re looking for a bold, flavor-packed dish that’s easy to make, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the perfect choice. These juicy, grilled chicken skewers are coated in a rich, creamy bang bang sauce, offering the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Whether you cook them on the grill or in an air fryer, they make a fantastic meal or appetizer that’s sure to impress.

This recipe draws inspiration from the famous bang bang chicken, a dish known for its crispy texture and signature sauce. While the original version is typically deep-fried, this grilled adaptation delivers the same irresistible taste with a smoky, charred finish. Plus, the homemade bang bang sauce enhances the dish with just the right amount of heat and creaminess.

These skewers are not just delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, planning a weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a versatile and satisfying option. Serve them with rice, a fresh salad, or your favorite grilled vegetables, and don’t forget an extra side of bang bang sauce for dipping!

Key Benefits

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers aren’t just delicious–they’re also easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling for a summer cookout Or a family dinner session on the weekendl, these skewers deliver on flavor and convenience. Here are some reasons why it will become one of your favorite recipes:

Bold, Addictive Flavor

The combination of juicy, grilled chicken and creamy bang bang sauce creates an unbeatable taste. The sauce blends sweet and chili sauce, mayo, and a hint of spice, making every bite rich in flavour, tangy, and slightly spicy.

Quick & Easy to Prepare

Prepare in a short time, these skewers are a great option for busy days. Marinate, skewer, and grill. it’s that simple. And if you don’t have a grill, the air fryer works just as well, cooking them to perfection in minutes.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These skewers store well and can be reheated in an air fryer or oven, making them a great choice to prepare other additional meals. Simply keep them in an airtight container, and they’re ready for a quick meal, or add it with other foods anytime.

Works with Different Proteins

While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best option for tenderness and flavor, you can also use chicken breast for a leaner choice. Prefer something different? Try bang bang shrimp or even bang bang salmon for a seafood twist.

Great for Grilling & Air Frying

These skewers acquire a delicious charred, smoky flavor when cooked on the grill, but if you’re short on time, you can cook in an air fryer at 400°F for a crispy, juicy finish. Either way, they’re packed with flavor.

Customizable Spice Level

If you love heat, you can make a spicy bang bang sauce by adding Sriracha or extra chili flakes. If you prefer a milder taste, simply reduce the spice without losing the sauce’s signature flavor.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish

Whether you’re serving them at a party, a summer BBQ, or a family dinner, these skewers always impress. Serve them with extra bang bang sauce on the side, and watch them disappear fast!

3. Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast for a leaner option)
Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon soy sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Garnishes & Serving Suggestions:

Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions
Sesame seeds
Lime wedges
Extra bang bang sauce on the side

Ingredient Notes:

Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breast: Chicken thighs stay juicier on the grill due to their higher fat content, but chicken breast works well for a lighter version.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is essential for the sweet and tangy bang bang sauce flavor. Use a Thai-style chili sauce for the best taste.
Wooden Skewers vs. Metal Skewers: Wooden skewers should be soaked in water to prevent burning. If you prefer, you can use metal skewers, which are reusable and don’t require soaking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Skewers on the grill or in an air fryer.

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast) into 1½-inch pieces for even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Add the chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated.

Step 3: Thread the Chicken Onto the Skewers

Thread the seasoned chicken onto the wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
If using metal skewers, the process is the same.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic powder until smooth.
Set aside half of the sauce for serving.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Grill Method:

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
When the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, brush the skewers with some reserved bang bang sauce and grill for 1 more minute.

Air Fryer Method:

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
Place the chicken skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
When the chicken is fully cooked, brush with reserved bang bang sauce and air fry for 1 more minute for extra caramelization.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer the skewers to a plate and let them rest for 2-3 minutes.
Sprinkle with cilantro, sesame seeds, or green onions for garnish.
Serve hot with extra bang bang sauce on the side for dipping.

Pro Tips and Variations

Pro Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Use Chicken Thighs for Juicier Skewers
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs stay tender and juicy on the grill or in the air fryer, while chicken breast is leaner but can dry out if overcooked.
Soak Wooden Skewers to Prevent Burning
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from charring during cooking.
- Metal skewers can be used instead, eliminating the need for soaking.
Marinate for More Flavor
- While this recipe is quick, marinating the seasoned chicken for 30 minutes to 1 hour enhances the taste.
Check the Internal Temperature
- Always cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Baste with Bang Bang Sauce at the End
- Brush the bang bang sauce onto the skewers in the last minute of cooking prevents burning while giving them a delicious caramelized finish.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
- Add extra Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the bang bang sauce for more heat.
Sweet and Tangy Bang Bang Chicken
- Increase the sweet chili sauce or add a touch of honey for a slightly sweeter glaze.
Bang Bang Shrimp or Salmon
- Instead of chicken recipe, try bang bang shrimp or bang bang salmon for a seafood twist. Adjust the cooking time as shrimp and salmon cook faster.
Air Fryer vs. Grill
- If you don’t have an air fryer, grilling is a fantastic option. Both methods create crispy, flavorful skewers with a smoky finish.
Make It a Meal
- Serve your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers over rice, alongside grilled veggies, or with a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pair well with a variety of sides, making them a versatile dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a backyard BBQ, a casual weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week, here are some great ways to enjoy them.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Steamed or Coconut Rice
- The sweet and tangy bang bang sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice or coconut rice for a balanced meal.
Grilled Vegetables
- Serve with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or asparagus for a fresh and smoky side.
Asian Slaw
- A crisp cabbage slaw with sesame dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy, creamy sauce.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
- The natural sweetness of roasted or mashed sweet potatoes complements the spicy bang bang sauce beautifully.
Garlic Noodles
- Tossed in a light soy-based sauce, garlic butter noodles are a fantastic addition to balance the heat.
Crispy Fries or Wedges
- Bang bang sauce also makes a delicious dip for crispy potato wedges, sweet potato fries, or French fries.
Fresh Salad
- A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the chicken.

Dipping Sauces & Garnishes

Extra Bang Bang Sauce – Serve on the side for dipping.
Lime Wedges – A squeeze of fresh lime juice enhances the flavors.
Chopped Green Onions or Cilantro – Adds a fresh, herby touch.
Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle for added texture and a hint of nuttiness.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors, juicy grilled chicken, and a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy in every bite. Whether you make them on the grill or in the air fryer, they come together quickly, making them an easy-to-make yet impressive dish for any occasion.

With a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken skewers, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the versatility of serving options from rice and slaw to roasted veggies makes it a fantastic addition to your meal rotation.

Enjoy these skewers as a delicious appetizer, a weeknight dinner, or even meal prep for the week. If you try this recipe, don’t forget to experiment with different variations, spice levels, and sides to make it your own!

FAQs

Why is it called Bang Bang Chicken?

The name “Bang Bang Chicken” comes from a traditional Chinese dish called Bang-Bang Ji (棒棒鸡), where the chicken is pounded with a wooden stick to tenderize it. Over time, the name stuck, and different versions of the dish have emerged, including this grilled Bang Bang Chicken recipe with a creamy, spicy sauce.

What goes with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair well with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, Asian slaw, roasted sweet potatoes, or garlic noodles. For a lighter option, serve them with a crisp salad or inside lettuce wraps.

What does Bang Bang Chicken taste like?

Bang Bang Chicken is a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. The grilled chicken is smoky and savory, while the bang bang sauce adds a creamy heat with hints of sweet chili, Sriracha, and garlic.

What goes well with Bang Bang Chicken?

In addition to rice and vegetables, Bang Bang Chicken pairs beautifully with dishes like spring rolls, sesame cucumber salad, fried rice, or even crispy fries. The bold flavors of the sauce make it a great match for both Asian-inspired and classic comfort food sides.

What flavor is Bang Bang?

Bang Bang Sauce is a mix of sweet, spicy, creamy, and tangy flavors. It gets its signature taste from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and soy sauce, creating a sauce that’s rich, zesty, and slightly spicy.

What is bang bang slang for?

“Bang Bang” is often used in slang to describe something exciting, intense, or impactful. In food, it refers to a bold, flavorful dish just like these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!

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