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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Brush Sauce: Generously brush the chicken skewers with some of the prepared Bang Bang sauce before cooking to infuse flavor and moisture.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for the chicken skewers.
- 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).
- Final Sauce Coating: Once cooked, brush the cooked chicken skewers with additional Bang Bang sauce to enhance the flavor and add a glossy finish.
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American