Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering meal with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The air fryer ensures juicy, tender results while the signature sauce creates an irresistible glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds.

I first made these skewers for a last-minute dinner party when I was short on time but needed something impressive. The sauce had my guests literally licking their fingers and asking for the recipe before dessert was even served.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Offer more flavor and juiciness than breast meat while staying tender in the air fryer
• Olive oil: Helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken and promotes browning
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the sweet heat of the sauce
• Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with aromatic flavor without burning like fresh garlic might
• Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the Bang Bang sauce use full fat for best flavor
• Sweet chili sauce: Provides the signature sweet heat that makes Bang Bang sauce special
• Hot sauce: Allows you to customize the spice level to your preference
• Honey: Balances the heat with natural sweetness use sugar free for keto version
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and ensures the chicken is seasoned through and through

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken:

Cut boneless skinless chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking. The key is consistency in size so all pieces finish cooking at the same time. Smaller pieces might dry out while larger ones remain undercooked.

Season the chicken:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil and all seasonings. Use your hands to thoroughly coat each piece ensuring maximum flavor absorption. The oil helps the seasonings distribute evenly and promotes beautiful browning in the air fryer.

Marinate for flavor:

Allow the seasoned chicken to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the salt to penetrate the meat while the other seasonings infuse their flavors. For even better results, marinate up to 24 hours ahead of time.

Create the Bang Bang sauce:

Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt until completely smooth. The sauce should have a pale orange hue with visible specks of chili. Taste and adjust the hot sauce level to your preference. The sauce should strike a perfect balance between creamy, sweet, and spicy.

Skewer the chicken:

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers leaving small gaps between each piece. This spacing allows hot air to circulate around each piece of chicken, creating more surface area for browning and ensuring even cooking throughout.

Apply initial sauce coating:

Brush a generous layer of Bang Bang sauce onto the chicken skewers before cooking. This initial layer will bake into the chicken, infusing it with flavor while creating a sticky base for the final sauce application.

Air fry to perfection:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for optimal cooking. Cook the skewers for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has beautiful caramelization on the edges.

Final sauce application:

Once cooked, brush the hot skewers with additional Bang Bang sauce. This second layer creates that signature sticky, glossy finish and delivers maximum flavor impact with every bite.

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The sweet chili sauce is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its magic during a cooking class in Thailand and have been incorporating it into fusion dishes ever since. The balance of sweet and heat creates an addictive flavor profile that keeps you coming back for just one more bite.

Making Ahead and Storage

These skewers maintain their juiciness remarkably well when stored properly. After cooking, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store the extra sauce separately in its own container. The skewers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a quick 2-3 minute session in the air fryer at 350°F works perfectly to restore their texture without drying them out. Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 90 seconds, though the texture won't be quite as good as the air fryer method.

Keto and Low Carb Adaptations

For those following a keto or stricter low carb diet, this recipe adapts beautifully with a few simple swaps. Use a sugar-free sweet chili sauce or make your own by combining sugar-free maple syrup with red pepper flakes and a touch of garlic. Replace the regular honey with a keto-friendly alternative like allulose syrup or monk fruit sweetener. These modifications keep the carb count even lower while preserving the signature Bang Bang flavor profile. The chicken itself is naturally low in carbs, making this a perfect protein-centered meal for any low carb eating plan.

Serving Suggestions

Transform these skewers into a complete meal with complementary sides. For a low carb approach, serve alongside cauliflower rice seasoned with lime and cilantro. A simple Asian-inspired slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a rice vinegar dressing creates a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce. For a party presentation, remove the chicken from the skewers and serve in lettuce cups topped with crushed peanuts and fresh herbs. The versatility of these skewers makes them perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to elegant entertaining.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is Bang Bang sauce made of?

Bang Bang sauce is a rich and tangy mix of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt. It's the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.

→ How long should the chicken marinate?

It's best to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor, though you can marinate for up to 2 hours for richer seasoning.

→ What temperature should the chicken be cooked to?

The chicken should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used as an alternative to chicken thighs. Just ensure the pieces are evenly sized for uniform cooking.

→ What side dishes pair well with this dish?

Pair Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.