Pin it
These Chipotle Bang Bang Chicken Skewers combine smoky chipotle seasoning with sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce for an irresistible appetizer that disappears at every gathering. The juicy chicken cubes get perfectly charred on the outside while staying tender inside.
I first made these skewers for a last-minute backyard gathering and they were such a hit that they've become my signature appetizer. Friends now text me days in advance to make sure I'm bringing these to potlucks.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose plump chicken breasts that feel firm and have a pinkish color for the juiciest results
- Extra virgin olive oil: Helps seasonings adhere to chicken while promoting browning
- Lime juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken
- Chipotle powder: Provides smoky heat that makes these skewers distinctive
- Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with aromatic flavor without burning like fresh garlic
- Kosher salt: Enhances all flavors and ensures perfectly seasoned chicken
- Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity to the seasoning blend
- Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the Bang Bang sauce
- Thai sweet chili sauce: Provides perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat
- Sriracha: Adds customizable spice level to the sauce
- Honey: Rounds out the sauce with natural sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the chicken:
- Season cubed chicken breasts with oil, lime juice, and all dry seasonings in a large bowl. This step is crucial for flavor development so toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated. The lime juice not only adds brightness but also begins tenderizing the meat.
- Thread the skewers:
- Place 4 to 5 chicken cubes onto each presoaked wooden skewer leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding as this allows heat to circulate properly around each piece of chicken ensuring perfect doneness throughout.
- Make the Bang Bang sauce:
- Combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a small bowl mixing until completely smooth. The sauce should have a beautiful coral color with visible flecks of chili. Reserve half in a separate bowl for serving to prevent cross contamination.
- Brush with sauce:
- Apply a generous coating of Bang Bang sauce to each skewer ensuring all sides are covered. This creates a flavorful glaze that will caramelize slightly during cooking adding depth to the final dish.
- Cook to perfection:
- Air fry at 400°F for 11 to 12 minutes flipping halfway through the cooking process. Watch for light charring at the edges which indicates proper caramelization. Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer reading 165°F.
- Finish and serve:
- Brush freshly cooked skewers with reserved Bang Bang sauce while still hot. This final layer of sauce adds a bright fresh flavor that perfectly contrasts with the cooked glaze underneath.
My favorite part of this recipe is the versatile Bang Bang sauce. I always make extra to keep in the refrigerator for drizzling over roasted vegetables or using as a dipping sauce for french fries. My teenagers can detect when I make a fresh batch and suddenly appear in the kitchen hoping for a taste.
Sauce Variations
The Bang Bang sauce is incredibly versatile and can be customized based on your preference. For a milder version reduce the Sriracha to just one teaspoon. If you love heat add up to a tablespoon for a serious kick. For a tangier profile add a teaspoon of rice vinegar to brighten the flavors. The sauce keeps beautifully in an airtight container for up to a week making it perfect for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
These skewers work beautifully as both appetizers and main dishes. For a complete meal serve them over cilantro lime rice with a side of roasted vegetables. For a stunning appetizer platter arrange them on a large board surrounded by cucumber slices, fresh herbs, and lime wedges. I love serving them with small dishes of extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes until warmed through. This maintains their texture better than microwave reheating. The Bang Bang sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to a week, always using a clean spoon to prevent contamination.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I grill the chicken skewers instead of air frying?
Yes, you can grill the skewers over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes per side, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Brush with Bang Bang sauce after grilling for the best flavor.
- → How can I prepare these skewers in the oven?
To bake, preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cook the skewers for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken reaches 165°F. Brush with the Bang Bang sauce after baking.
- → Can I make the Bang Bang sauce less spicy?
Yes, adjust the spiciness by reducing the amount of Sriracha in the sauce or adding more mayonnaise to balance the heat.
- → What’s the best way to soak wooden skewers?
Soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This prevents them from burning during cooking, whether air frying, grilling, or baking.
- → What should I serve with these chicken skewers?
Serve these skewers with a side of steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to complement the bold flavors of the chicken and sauce.