Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a spicy, sweet, and savory twist on classic grilled chicken. Tender, marinated chicken is grilled to juicy perfection, then drizzled (or tossed) with a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce that makes every bite unforgettable. It’s perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or when I crave something bold and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it brings restaurant-style flavor right to my kitchen with minimal effort. The marinade keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful, while the signature Bang Bang sauce adds that irresistible spicy kick with a creamy finish. Whether I serve it over rice, in wraps, or as-is on skewers, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prep ahead and grill in minutes.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Chicken breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless
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Olive oil
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Paprika
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Wooden or metal skewers
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
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Mayonnaise
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Sweet chili sauce
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Sriracha
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Honey or sugar (optional for extra sweetness)
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Lime juice (optional, for a hint of acidity)
Directions
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I start by soaking the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if I’m using them, to prevent burning.
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I cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and place them in a large bowl or zip-top bag.
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I mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then pour it over the chicken. I let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge.
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I thread the chicken onto skewers, making sure not to pack them too tightly.
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I preheat the grill (or grill pan) over medium-high heat and grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred.
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While the chicken grills, I whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and optional honey or lime juice to make the Bang Bang sauce.
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Once grilled, I either drizzle the sauce over the skewers or toss the chicken in it before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes approximately 15 minutes to prep and about 10–12 minutes to cook. Including marination, I like to allow at least 45 minutes total if I’m not rushing.
Variations
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I sometimes swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
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For a low-carb version, I skip the sweetener in the sauce and serve the skewers with grilled veggies or cauliflower rice.
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I love using Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a tangy, lighter version of the Bang Bang sauce.
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When I want extra crunch, I add chopped peanuts or sesame seeds as garnish.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I either microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. I usually store the sauce separately if I’m making this ahead, so it doesn’t soak too much into the chicken.
FAQs
What is Bang Bang sauce made of?
Bang Bang sauce is a creamy blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. I sometimes add honey and lime juice to balance the flavor.
Can I bake the chicken skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, I bake them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked.
How spicy is this recipe?
The spice level depends on how much sriracha I use. I can always start with a little and add more to taste.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. I often marinate the chicken the night before and prepare the sauce in advance. When it’s time to eat, I just grill and serve.
What should I serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
I like serving them with jasmine rice, grilled vegetables, or even wrapped in flatbread with slaw for a full meal.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something bold, flavorful, and easy to make. The combination of juicy grilled chicken and creamy, spicy sauce hits all the right notes. Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun backyard barbecue, this recipe always delivers.
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (air‑fryer) or up to 25 minutes (oven)
- Total Time: 22 minutes (air‑fryer) to ~35 minutes (oven)
- Yield: Approximately 16 skewers (using 2 lb chicken)
- Category: Appetizer / Main Course
- Method: Air‑fry, grill or oven bake
- Cuisine: Fusion/Asian‑inspired
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Juicy chicken skewers coated in a creamy, sweet‑and‑spicy Bang Bang sauce—perfect for appetizers or a flavorful main course.
Ingredients
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water (15–30 min)
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1‑inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅔ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Soak skewers in water for 15–30 minutes.
- Cut chicken into 1″ cubes; in a large bowl combine with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper—toss to coat.
- Thread 4–5 pieces of chicken per skewer.
- In a bowl whisk mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey (plus lime juice and soy sauce if using).
- Reserve half the sauce; brush the other half over raw skewers.
- Cook skewers (air fryer at 400°F for 11–12 min flipping halfway, or oven at 400°F for 20–25 min, turning midway, or grill over medium‑high heat about 8–10 min per side) until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
- Brush cooked skewers with reserved sauce and garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley; serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and moisture.
- Skewers and prepared uncooked skewers can be stored in the fridge for 2–3 days; freeze up to 3 months.
- Sauce keeps in the fridge up to a week.
- Make‑ahead: marinade skewers overnight or up to 12 hours.
- Leftovers: store skewers and sauce separately; reheat in air fryer or oven for crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: ≈253 kcal
- Sugar: ≈4‑9 g
- Sodium: ≈600 mg
- Fat: ≈15 g
- Saturated Fat: ≈3‑5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ≈10 g
- Trans Fat: ≈0.1 g
- Carbohydrates: ≈5‑10 g
- Fiber: ≈0.4 g
- Protein: ≈25 g
- Cholesterol: ≈80‑150 mg