Looking for a recipe that’s as flavorful as it is versatile? Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the ultimate crowd-pleaser! Whether you grill them for a smoky char, bake them for an even cook, or air fry them for crispy perfection, these skewers deliver a delicious punch every time. Tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce, they’re perfect for dinner, appetizers, or even meal prep.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything about Bang Bang Chicken Skewers—from their origins to step-by-step cooking instructions, helpful tips, and creative variations. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to prepare this irresistible dish using your preferred cooking method. Let’s dive in!
What Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Origin of Bang Bang Chicken
The name Bang Bang Chicken has its roots in traditional Sichuan cuisine, where chicken was tenderized with a wooden mallet, creating a distinct “bang bang” sound. Over time, this dish evolved into a globally popular recipe known for its creamy, spicy, and sweet flavor. Today, Bang Bang sauce is the highlight, bringing bold taste to dishes like salads, wraps, and skewers.
How Bang Bang Sauce Enhances the Skewers
The magic of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers lies in the sauce—a luxurious blend of Thai sweet chili sauce, creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime juice, and fiery sriracha. This combination isn’t just added at the end; it’s used as both a marinade and a finishing glaze, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
Why This Recipe Fits Any Cooking Method
No matter your cooking setup, this recipe delivers. Grilling brings out a smoky char that enhances the sauce’s sweetness. Meanwhile, baking provides even cooking with minimal effort, and air frying offers crispy, caramelized perfection. You can adapt it to your tools and preferences, making it a recipe for everyone.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Main Ingredients with Measurements
To begin with, creating the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers requires a mix of flavorful ingredients that balance heat, sweetness, and creaminess. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: 1½–2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cubed into 1-inch pieces). You can also use chicken breasts if preferred.
- Olive Oil: 1 Tbsp, to coat the chicken and keep it juicy during cooking.
- Seasonings:
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice lovers)
- ½ tsp salt
- Hot Honey: 2 Tbsp (optional, for a sweet-spicy glaze).
- Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 2 Tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
Substitution Options for Dietary Preferences
- For a lighter sauce, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- If you’re avoiding spice, reduce or skip the sriracha and cayenne pepper.
- To make it dairy-free, ensure all condiments used are vegan-friendly.
- Use tofu cubes or mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.
For a comprehensive guide on dietary swaps and healthy eating tips, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Tools You’ll Need
- Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden ones in water to prevent burning).
- A grill, air fryer, or oven.
- Mixing bowls and a basting brush.
For additional chicken recipes, try the Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries for a crunchy delight.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken thighs, olive oil, and seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt). Then, toss to ensure every piece is evenly coated. After that, let the chicken marinate for 20–30 minutes to enhance its flavor.
2. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. Reserve half the sauce for glazing and dipping after cooking.
3. Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, filling about ¾ of the skewer to allow even cooking. In addition, if you’re using wooden skewers, ensure they’re soaked in water beforehand to prevent burning during cooking.
Cooking Methods
Grilling:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place skewers on the grill and cook for 15–20 minutes, turning often. Brush with the reserved sauce during the last 5 minutes for caramelized perfection.
Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, and glaze with sauce for added flavor.
Air Frying:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
- Arrange skewers in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Glaze with sauce before serving.
For an elegant dinner idea, check out the Blackened Chicken Alfredo, another flavorful option to add to your repertoire.
Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
How to Avoid Overcooking the Chicken
Overcooked chicken can ruin even the most flavorful dish. Therefore, to keep your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers tender and juicy, always monitor the internal temperature. For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and no more. Additionally, for even cooking, turn the skewers regularly, whether you’re grilling, baking, or air frying.
Soak Wooden Skewers to Prevent Burning
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before assembling your chicken. This step prevents them from burning or splintering during cooking, especially on the grill or in the oven.
Balancing the Spice Level for Everyone
Not everyone loves heat, so it’s easy to adjust the spice level of this dish. To make your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers mild, reduce or skip the sriracha and cayenne pepper in the sauce. On the other hand, spice enthusiasts can drizzle hot honey or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
For more tips on enhancing chicken recipes, explore our guide to the Empress Chicken Recipe, packed with expert advice on balancing flavors.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. To create a complete meal, serve them over fluffy jasmine rice or alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. However, if you’re in the mood for something lighter, a crisp cucumber salad or tangy coleslaw works beautifully.
Garnishing Ideas for a Stunning Presentation
A little garnish goes a long way in elevating your presentation. For instance, sprinkle chopped green onions or sesame seeds over the skewers for a pop of flavor and color. Additionally, drizzle a bit of the reserved Bang Bang sauce or hot honey for added appeal. Finally, a wedge of lime on the side can add a zesty burst to balance the dish’s richness.
For more dinner inspiration, check out our recipe for Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken, which also pairs wonderfully with rice and veggies.
FAQs About Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Why Is It Called Bang Bang Chicken?
The name “Bang Bang Chicken” comes from a traditional Chinese dish in which the chicken was tenderized with a wooden mallet, creating a “bang bang” sound. Eventually, the term became associated with this flavorful chicken dish featuring a sweet and spicy sauce. In modern times, the name highlights the bold, attention-grabbing flavor profile of the dish.
Which Cut of Chicken Is Best for Skewers?
Chicken thighs are the top choice for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers because they stay moist and tender during cooking, whether you grill, bake, or air fry them. However, if you prefer leaner meat, chicken breasts work just as well. Just be cautious not to overcook them, as they can dry out more quickly than thighs.
To learn about the nutritional benefits of chicken thighs and breasts, read this guide from Mayo Clinic .
Can You Put Wooden Skewers in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can use wooden skewers in an air fryer, but it’s essential to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This prevents them from charring or catching fire in the high heat of the air fryer.
How to Avoid Overcooking Chicken Skewers?
The key to perfectly cooked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is maintaining an even cooking temperature while monitoring the internal temperature. For this reason, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). In addition, turning the skewers frequently helps prevent overcooking or uneven char.
Variations of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Making the Recipe Mild
Not a fan of spicy food? Fortunately, you can easily adjust the heat level of this dish. For example, reduce the sriracha in the sauce and skip the cayenne pepper in the seasoning. As a result, you’ll still enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of the Bang Bang sauce, but with a milder kick that’s more kid-friendly.
Adding Extra Heat for Spice Lovers
For those who love a fiery dish, there are plenty of ways to turn up the heat. Add extra sriracha or cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also drizzle the finished skewers with hot honey or sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes for a bolder flavor.
Vegetarian or Tofu Skewers
Looking for a vegetarian option? Swap the chicken for firm tofu cubes or even mushrooms. Marinate the tofu in the same spices, then cook it on skewers using your preferred method. The Bang Bang sauce pairs just as beautifully with tofu or veggies as it does with chicken.
Explore more plant-based protein options with this resource from MyPlate.
If you’re craving another variation of flavorful chicken recipes, try the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a creamy, hearty dish that complements any occasion.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftover Skewers
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are great for meal prep or leftovers, thus making them an ideal recipe for busy families. To begin with, store them properly by letting the skewers cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can refrigerate them for up to 4 days without losing much flavor. However, if you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the skewers for up to 2 months. For instance, when freezing, wrap each skewer individually in foil or plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
To avoid soggy chicken, store the Bang Bang sauce separately in a small airtight container. This way, you can reapply it after reheating for that fresh, creamy flavor.
Reheating Options
1. Air Fryer
The air fryer is the best option to restore the crispiness of the skewers. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F and heat the skewers for 3–5 minutes. Brush on extra Bang Bang sauce after reheating for maximum flavor.
2. Oven
Reheating in the oven is another great method, especially if you’re reheating a larger batch. Preheat the oven to 350°F, place the skewers on a baking sheet, and cover them loosely with foil to lock in moisture. Heat for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even reheating.
3. Microwave
If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave. Place the skewers on a microwave-safe plate, cover them with a damp paper towel, and heat them in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as microwaving can make the chicken dry.
Tips for Keeping Reheated Skewers Flavorful
- Always brush on fresh Bang Bang sauce after reheating to revive the signature taste.
- Pair reheated skewers with freshly cooked sides like rice or veggies for a complete meal.
- Avoid reheating more than once, as this can make the chicken lose its juicy texture.
If you enjoy recipes that store and reheat well, check out the Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe for another versatile and flavorful option.
The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are more than just a recipe—they’re a solution for countless mealtime needs. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner, hosting a backyard barbecue, or prepping meals for the week, this dish fits every occasion perfectly.
One of the reasons these skewers shine is their versatility. In particular, you can grill them for a smoky finish, bake them for an easy hands-off approach, or air fry them for that extra crispy texture. Furthermore, with the ability to adjust the spice level, they cater to everyone—from kids who prefer a mild flavor to spice lovers who crave heat.
Moreover, this recipe’s creamy, tangy Bang Bang sauce is what sets it apart. It elevates simple chicken skewers into something special, therefore adding layers of flavor that make every bite memorable. Pair them with your favorite sides like jasmine rice, grilled veggies, or a crisp salad, and thus you’ve got a meal that’s as easy as it is impressive.
So why not give these skewers a try? They’re quick to prepare, fun to cook, and always a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re making them for the first time or looking to perfect your technique, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
For even more dinner inspiration, don’t forget to check out the Crispy Chicken Tenders and Fries and Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken Recipe. Happy cooking!