Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and family gatherings, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are an easy way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with a kick of flavor from the homemade bang bang sauce. I love how this recipe brings everyone together, whether it’s at a casual dinner or a fun backyard barbecue. You’ll find that these skewers are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare!

The best part? You can whip them up in just around 22 minutes, making them an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when you need something quick yet satisfying. Trust me, once you try these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, they will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have these skewers ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and spicy bang bang sauce!
• Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer or main course—great for any occasion.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make them ahead of time for easy lunches or snacks during the week.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and sauces guarantees a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are sure to please everyone at the table. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Skewers

• Wooden skewers, (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
• 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

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 1 ¼ cups (290 g) mayonnaise
• ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 2 teaspoons Sriracha, (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons honey

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist!
• Add some veggies: Thread bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms onto the skewers for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you’re a fan of heat, add more Sriracha or even some diced jalapeños to the marinade.
• Gluten-free option: Simply ensure that your sauces are gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until each piece of chicken is evenly coated. This step is crucial because it ensures that every bite has tons of flavor.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

Working one skewer at a time, thread about 4-5 chicken cubes onto each soaked wooden skewer. Make sure not to pack them too tightly; allowing space helps them cook evenly.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until smooth. This will create about 1 ¾ cups of delicious bang bang sauce. Set aside half of it in another bowl for later—that’s what you’ll drizzle over after cooking!

Step 4: Brush with Sauce

Before cooking, brush the remaining sauce over all sides of the skewered chicken. This adds an extra layer of flavor while they cook.

Step 5: Air Frying Time!

Place your skewers into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to do this in batches. Air fry at 400°F for about 11-12 minutes. Flip halfway through cooking so they brown nicely on all sides. They’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, transfer your skewers to a plate and drizzle or brush them with the reserved bang bang sauce. Serve immediately while they’re still hot and enjoy every flavorful bite!

Now you’ve got not just a recipe but also a beloved dish that’s sure to bring smiles around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Creating the perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is all about the details! Here are some handy tips to ensure your skewers turn out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality sauces will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients bring better taste and texture, making your skewers truly shine.
• Soak skewers in water: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning during cooking. This simple step ensures that your skewers hold together beautifully without any charred bits!
• Marinate for extra flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the oil and spices for 30 minutes or even overnight. Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the chicken, enhancing its taste.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Air circulation is crucial for even cooking. Make sure to place the skewers in a single layer without overcrowding them, so each piece cooks thoroughly and gets that delightful crispy texture.
• Adjust sauce spice level: The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility! Feel free to tweak the amount of Sriracha in your bang bang sauce according to your spice tolerance. This way, everyone can enjoy it at their preferred heat level!

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Serving up your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can turn a simple meal into an impressive feast! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild oniony flavor that complements the sweetness of the sauce.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds bring a nutty crunch and an appealing visual element to your skewers. They’re simple but make a significant impact!

Side Dishes

• Coconut rice: This fragrant rice dish is infused with coconut milk, creating a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the spicy bang bang sauce.
• Grilled vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus not only add nutrition but also enhance your plate’s visual appeal with their vibrant colors.
• Asian slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing complements the tenderness of the chicken while providing a refreshing contrast.
• Dipping sauces: Offer additional dipping sauces on the side, such as extra sweet chili sauce or a tangy cilantro-lime dressing. It lets everyone customize their experience!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to impress your family and friends with mouthwatering Bang Bang Chicken Skewers that are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up ahead of time, making your weeknight dinners a breeze or providing a delicious appetizer for gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked skewers to cool to room temperature.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the skewers are completely cooled before freezing.
• Wrap each skewer individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the skewers in an air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can use an oven preheated to 350°F and reheat on a baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Chicken Skewers that might help you out!

Can I use other proteins for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses chicken, feel free to substitute with shrimp or firm tofu for a different twist.

How do I make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers spicier?

To amp up the heat, add more Sriracha to the bang bang sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the skewers before cooking.

Can I bake Bang Bang Chicken Skewers instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F and arrange the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked through.

What is the best way to serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

These skewers make a fantastic appetizer or main dish. Serve them with extra bang bang sauce on the side and some fresh veggies for dipping!

How long does it take to prepare Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

It takes just about 10 minutes of prep time and around 12 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll have these tasty skewers ready in no time!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Bang Bang Chicken Skewers as much as I do! They’re not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them up at a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these skewers are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!