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Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

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4.1 from 82 reviews

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and spicy dish featuring tender chicken thigh cubes marinated with aromatic spices, then air fried to perfection and coated with a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce. Perfectly balanced with heat and sweetness, these skewers make a delicious appetizer or main course that’s quick to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken Skewers

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Bang Bang Sauce

  • 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper to the chicken cubes. Toss until all pieces are evenly coated with the spices. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
  3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup mayonnaise, ½ cup sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 teaspoon salt. Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly until smooth and well incorporated. Set aside.
  4. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece for proper air circulation and even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the skewers.
  5. Brush Sauce: Generously brush the chicken skewers with some of the prepared Bang Bang sauce before cooking to infuse flavor and moisture.
  6. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for the chicken skewers.
  7. Air Fry the Chicken: Place the skewers in a single layer inside the preheated air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch to allow even air flow. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through the cooking time to brown evenly. Continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Final Sauce Coating: Once cooked, brush the cooked chicken skewers with additional Bang Bang sauce to enhance the flavor and add a glossy finish.
  9. Serve: Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers hot, garnished optionally with fresh chopped parsley or sesame seeds. Offer extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Use full-fat mayonnaise, low-carb sweet chili sauce, keto-friendly hot sauce, and sugar-free honey for a keto-friendly variation.
  • Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness, but chicken breasts can be used if desired.
  • Ensure skewers are spaced apart in the air fryer basket for even cooking and crisping.
  • Adjust hot sauce quantity in the Bang Bang sauce depending on your preferred spice level.
  • For easy cleanup, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning in the air fryer.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American