Craving Ultimate Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in Under 30?

July 8, 2025

Remember those summer nights? My family, laughter, and the unforgettable smell of grilling chicken… That’s where my love for skewers began. Over the years, I’ve played with flavors, aiming for that perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory. These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the culmination of that journey. The unique sauce, inspired by my mom’s secret recipe, makes them irresistible. It’s got this zing, you know? For those looking for cheesy garlic chicken wraps for lunch or dinner, these spicy chicken skewers offer a similar flavor profile in a fun, easy-to-eat format. Seriously, this air fryer recipe is quick, flavorful, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you call them chicken on a stick, bang bang chicken kabobs, or just the best homemade chicken appetizer, they’re always a hit. Let’s get cooking.

Why You’ll Love These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something fast and delicious!
The sauce is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Trust me; once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!
They are juicy and flavorful. No dry, boring chicken here! Each bite is bursting with goodness.
Great for a quick weeknight dinner or even a fun weekend appetizer. I always make a double batch!
Low-carb friendly (with modifications). Just swap out a few ingredients, and you can enjoy these guilt-free.
Perfect for grilling or air frying. Whether you prefer the smoky flavor of the grill or the convenience of the air fryer, these turn out amazing every time.

Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes (This is your protein! I always go for organic when I can – you can really taste the difference. Chicken breasts work too, but thighs stay so much juicier!)
1 tbsp olive oil (Adds moisture and helps the seasonings stick. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to because of its flavor, but regular works just fine.)
1 tsp paprika (Gives a lovely smoky flavor and a vibrant color to the chicken. Smoked paprika? Even better!)
1 tsp garlic powder (Because everything’s better with garlic! If you’re feeling fancy, you can totally sub in fresh minced garlic.)
1 tsp salt (A must for seasoning. I’m a kosher salt kinda gal, but use what you’ve got!)
½ tsp black pepper (Adds just a touch of spice. Freshly ground is always the way to go, trust me.)
1 cup mayonnaise (This makes the sauce super creamy. Full-fat mayo gives the best texture, but Greek yogurt is a great healthier swap!)
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce (Adds that signature sweetness and a touch of heat. Adjust the amount to your liking—I like mine with a little kick!)
1 tbsp hot sauce (For that extra zing! Sriracha is my personal fave, but use whatever makes your taste buds happy.)
2 tbsp honey (Balances out the spice with some sweetness. Maple syrup works great too!)
1 tsp salt (To season the sauce. Taste and adjust to make it perfect for you!)

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Cut the chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch cubes. I find this is easiest when the chicken is slightly chilled. Consistency is key here – you want them all roughly the same size so they cook evenly!
Step 2: In a bowl, mix the chicken with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Get your hands in there! Make sure every piece is nicely coated. This step is all about building that initial flavor base.
Step 3: Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. But honestly? The longer, the better. If I have time, I’ll let it sit for a few hours, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to really meld together and makes the chicken extra juicy.
Step 4: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the Bang Bang sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt in a separate bowl. Now, here’s the fun part – taste and adjust the spice level to your liking! More hot sauce for extra heat, or a touch more honey to sweeten it up. It’s your sauce, make it your own!
Step 5: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving small gaps between each piece. Don’t squish them together! You want that air to circulate for even cooking.
Step 6: Brush the chicken skewers generously with the Bang Bang sauce. This is where the magic happens, folks. That sauce will caramelize in the air fryer and create the most amazing flavorful crust.
Step 7: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, don’t skip the preheating step! It ensures even cooking and that perfect crispy exterior.
Step 8: Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the basket! If you need to, cook them in batches. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of air frying it, and nobody wants that.
Step 9: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them! You want the chicken to be golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 10: Once they’re cooked, brush them with even MORE Bang Bang sauce. I know, it seems like a lot, but trust me on this one. It adds so much flavor and moisture!
Step 11: Serve the bang bang chicken skewers hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or sesame seeds, if desired. And of course, serve with extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping! Enjoy immediately for the best taste—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for the Best Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, for the best flavor. Seriously, plan ahead – you won’t regret it!
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. I know it’s tempting to cram them all in, but cook in batches if needed. It’s worth the extra time for perfectly cooked chicken.
Brush with extra sauce after cooking for maximum flavor impact. This is my secret weapon! It’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth.

What’s the secret to perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

The secret is in the sauce! Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of hot sauce and honey to achieve your ideal balance of sweet and spicy. I always start with the recipe as written, then tweak it to my taste. You do you!

Can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the skewers just before cooking. The cooked skewers are best enjoyed immediately, but hey, sometimes you gotta prep in advance!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Avoid overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry and sad. Nobody wants dry chicken! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Also, don’t skip the marinating step, as it adds crucial flavor and moisture. It’s a game-changer!

Best Ways to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are seriously versatile! I love serving them over fluffy rice or noodles – it soaks up all that delicious sauce! They also make a fantastic appetizer or party snack; just arrange them on a platter with extra sauce for dipping. For a lighter meal, consider serving these spicy skewers with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh, crunchy salad. If you’re feeling fancy, pair them with creamy coconut rice and a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete and totally irresistible meal!

Nutrition Facts for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Per serving (estimated):

Calories: 456
Fat: 35g
Protein: 23g
Carbs: 6g
Fiber: 0.3g
Sugar: 10g

These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. I always recommend using a nutrition calculator for the most accurate info if you’re tracking macros!

How to Store and Reheat Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Got leftovers? Lucky you! These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are still delicious the next day. Store any remaining skewers in an airtight container—I like using glass containers—in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, pop them in the freezer for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in a microwave if you’re in a hurry, but just a heads up, the texture might be a little different. They might lose a bit of that crisp, but they’ll still be tasty. Trust me, these are great cold, too, if you’re feeling snacky!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Yes, you absolutely can! But listen, my friend, chicken thighs are where it’s at for flavor and juiciness. They’re just more forgiving. If you only have chicken breast, that’s fine, but keep in mind:

Will the cooking time be the same if I use chicken breast? Nope! Chicken breast cooks faster. Keep a close eye on them and start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier.
Will the chicken be as juicy if I use chicken breast? Probably not quite as juicy, but you can help it out! Don’t overcook them! Aim for that 165°F (74°C) internal temp and pull them out right away.

Seriously, though, give the thighs a try sometime. You might be surprised!

What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I still make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Of course! I love my air fryer, but you’ve got options. Here’s the lowdown:

Can I bake the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers? You bet! Lay them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t dry out.
How do I grill the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers? Grilling is fantastic! Preheat your grill to medium heat and grill those skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. The grill gives them a lovely smoky char that’s just *chef’s kiss*!

How can I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers spicier?

Oh, you wanna kick it up a notch? I like your style! Here’s how to add some fire:

What kind of hot sauce should I use? That’s totally up to you! Sriracha is my go-to for a classic flavor, but experiment! Gochujang paste adds a funky fermented heat, and a dash of habanero sauce will really bring the pain.
Can I add chili flakes to the Bang Bang sauce? Absolutely! A pinch of red pepper flakes will add another layer of heat and texture to the sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers You Can Try

Want to mix things up? These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are super easy to customize! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Keto Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: Keep it low-carb by using full-fat mayo, a sugar-free sweet chili sauce (they exist!), a keto-friendly hot sauce, and sugar-free honey or a suitable sweetener. You won’t even miss the carbs!
Grilled Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: Fire up the grill! Grilling the skewers gives them a fantastic smoky flavor that takes them to a whole new level. Just be sure to watch them carefully so they don’t burn.
Vegan Bang Bang Skewers: Ditch the chicken and use firm or extra-firm tofu (pressed, of course!) or tempeh instead. Use vegan mayonnaise and double-check that your sweet chili sauce is vegan-friendly. It’s a delicious plant-based twist!
Baked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: For a super hands-off cooking method, bake the skewers in the oven. They might not get quite as crispy as in the air fryer or on the grill, but they’re still delicious and require minimal effort. Perfect for a busy weeknight!

Craving Ultimate Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in Under 30?

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Author: zaha man
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Carb

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Description

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are simple to make, juicy, and smothered in a unique sauce that perfectly balances sweet and spicy flavors. They’re ready in under 30 minutes, making them a fantastic option for a quick, flavorful, and low-carb meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
1 tbsp hot sauce or more to taste
2 tbsp honey
1 tsp salt

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Instructions

Start by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. Ensure they are uniform in size for even cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss the chicken until evenly coated with the seasonings. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
In a separate bowl, prepare the Bang Bang sauce by combining the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt. Whisk together until the ingredients are well incorporated. Set aside.
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for even cooking. Ensure the skewers are not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation in the air fryer basket.
Before air frying, brush the chicken skewers generously with some of the prepared Bang Bang sauce.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other.
Air fry the chicken skewers for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and cooking. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once the chicken skewers are cooked to perfection brush with more bang bang sauce.
Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or sesame seeds if desired, alongside extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping.

Notes

Use full-fat mayo, low-carb sweet chili sauce, keto-friendly hot sauce, and sugar-free honey for a keto version of this rich, spicy, and sweet sauce. Perfect for staying low-carb without sacrificing taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner, Lunch
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American