Bang Bang Chicken Skewers – Easy Air Fryer Recipe

There’s just something about a bite-sized, flavor-packed chicken skewer that makes dinner feel exciting and satisfying. Maybe it’s the way the chicken gets perfectly golden on the outside while staying juicy inside. Or maybe it’s the sauce—oh, the sauce. That dreamy, creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce that clings to every piece and makes you want to lick your fingers clean.

This recipe for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is my go-to when I want something that looks and tastes like I spent hours cooking, but really takes very little hands-on time. It’s bold in flavor, super easy to prep, and totally customizable. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a gathering with friends, or even meal prep, it delivers big-time on flavor without a ton of fuss.

What makes this recipe extra special is how adaptable it is. You can air fry it, bake it, or even grill it—whatever suits your kitchen setup. Plus, it’s made completely halal-friendly with simple swaps like chicken thighs and a honey or sugar-free honey option. And if you’re keeping it low-carb, you can use low-carb sweet chili sauce without sacrificing taste.

But what really makes this dish a winner in my book is the balance. You’ve got tender, spiced chicken cubes, a creamy-spicy Bang Bang sauce that’s full of character, and a crisp finish thanks to air frying or oven roasting. Every bite is packed with contrasting textures and flavors that come together so perfectly, you’ll find yourself reaching for another skewer before you’ve finished the first.

So whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this is a dish that won’t let you down. It’s approachable, fun, and most importantly—delicious. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First and foremost, this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe is ridiculously easy. The marinade takes just a few minutes to mix, and the air fryer or oven does most of the heavy lifting. That means you can have a dinner that tastes like you ordered it from your favorite restaurant—without ever leaving your kitchen.

Another reason to love this dish? The flavor explosion. Seriously, these skewers are bursting with boldness. The chicken is seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, and just the right amount of salt and pepper, creating a savory base that pairs beautifully with the rich, zesty Bang Bang sauce. The sauce itself is a creamy blend of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and a touch of honey, giving it that spicy-sweet tang you won’t be able to resist.

It’s also a family-friendly recipe. Kids tend to love the sweetness in the sauce, and adults appreciate the little kick from the Sriracha. If you need to tone down the spice, just adjust the heat level to your liking. It’s that simple.

Let’s not forget how versatile it is. Whether you’re serving it over rice, tucking it into lettuce wraps, or adding it to a salad bowl, Bang Bang Chicken adapts effortlessly to whatever meal you’re craving. It also makes a stellar appetizer or party snack—just pop the skewers on a platter and watch them disappear.

And finally, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken the night before, then cook it fresh when you’re ready to eat. It reheats beautifully and stays tender for days.

With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this is one recipe you’ll keep coming back to.

Health Benefits

While Bang Bang Chicken sounds indulgent—and let’s be honest, it is totally satisfying—it also comes with some sneaky health perks, especially when you make it at home.

Let’s start with the protein. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs ensures the meat is tender and flavorful while delivering a solid dose of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune support, and keeping you full and satisfied. Chicken thighs also have more iron and zinc than chicken breast, making them a great choice for a balanced diet.

Because this recipe is air fryer– and oven–friendly, you’re skipping the extra oil that comes with frying. That means fewer unnecessary fats and calories without sacrificing that crave-worthy crispiness. You still get beautifully caramelized edges and a juicy center—all without submerging your chicken in oil.

The sauce, although rich, can easily be adjusted to fit your health goals. Use full-fat mayo for a creamier result, or swap in a light mayo or even Greek yogurt if you want to cut down on calories and fat. The sweet chili sauce is where a lot of the sugar comes from, so using a low-carb or sugar-free version gives you the same flavor hit with fewer carbs.

Plus, this dish is completely customizable to fit special dietary needs. Want to go low-carb? Serve it over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps. Looking to add fiber and vitamins? Pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. Either way, you’re getting a nutrient-rich, flavor-packed meal that feels like comfort food but is much healthier than takeout.

The bottom line? Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a guilt-free way to enjoy bold, creamy, spicy-sweet flavors without compromising your wellness goals.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or quick weekend dinners. With just a little bit of planning ahead—mainly for the marinating—you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.

Preparation Time:
Marinating: 30 minutes (can be done ahead)
Active Prep: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12–20 minutes (depending on cooking method)
Total Time: About 45–50 minutes (including marinating)

Servings:
This recipe makes about 4 servings (approximately 2 skewers per person, depending on the size of your skewers and how much chicken you load onto them)

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: 380
Protein: 28g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 1g

These numbers may vary slightly depending on which sauce ingredients and brands you use, so always double-check if you’re tracking macros or following a specific plan.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to bring these bold, flavorful skewers to life. Everything is easy to find, and you may already have many of these staples in your pantry or fridge.

For the Chicken

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  Chicken thighs are perfect for skewers because they stay juicy and tender throughout cooking. You can use breast meat if you prefer leaner cuts, but thighs will give you the best texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  Helps the spices cling to the meat and adds a touch of richness.
• 1 teaspoon paprika
  Adds color and a subtle smokiness to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  Delivers that savory, umami kick that makes each bite more addictive.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  Balances the other seasonings and brings out the chicken’s natural flavor.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
  Adds a mild warmth and depth to the marinade.

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat, or light if desired)
  Gives the sauce its creamy base and rich texture.
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce (look for a low-carb or sugar-free version for a keto-friendly option)
  Brings the sweet, tangy flavor with just a hint of spice.
• 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha or other halal-friendly hot sauce
  Adjust to your spice preference—more for heat lovers, less for a milder flavor.
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar-free honey substitute
  Adds sweetness and helps the sauce cling to the chicken beautifully.
• Salt, to taste
  Brings it all together and enhances the sauce’s balance.

Optional for garnish:

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Red chili flakes
• Toasted sesame seeds

Next up, let’s walk through each step so you feel confident making these skewers whether it’s your first time or your fifth.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s walk through how to make these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers from start to finish. I’ll take you step-by-step so nothing feels confusing or overwhelming, even if this is your first time making skewers or working with an air fryer.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

• Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the pieces fairly uniform so they cook evenly. If some pieces are too big or too small, you’ll end up with a mix of undercooked and overcooked bites.
• Place the chicken cubes in a large mixing bowl.
• Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, then add the paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper.
• Use clean hands or tongs to toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the oil and spices. Make sure every piece gets a nice coating—it’s what gives the chicken its flavor base.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Once your chicken is coated, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• If you have extra time, feel free to let it marinate longer—up to 4 hours is great. This allows the flavors to soak into the meat and keeps it extra juicy.
• While the chicken is marinating, you can prep your Bang Bang sauce and soak your wooden skewers if you’re using them (this prevents them from burning in the air fryer or oven).

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

• In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha (start with 1 teaspoon and add more to taste), and honey or your preferred sugar-free substitute.
• Whisk everything together until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
• Give it a quick taste—if you want more heat, add a bit more Sriracha. If you want it sweeter, add a touch more honey. Adjust the salt as needed.
• Set the sauce aside until you’re ready to cook. You can also store it in the fridge if you’re making it ahead.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

• Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the fridge.
• Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a little bit of space between each piece so the heat can circulate and cook them evenly.
• Depending on the size of your skewers and how large you cut your chicken, you’ll get about 6 to 8 skewers total.
• If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve soaked in water for at least 20–30 minutes so they don’t burn during cooking.

Step 5: Brush with Bang Bang Sauce

• Before cooking, brush the chicken skewers lightly with some of the Bang Bang sauce. This gives the chicken a gorgeous glaze while it cooks.
• Reserve the rest of the sauce for drizzling or dipping later—it’s too good not to!

Step 6: Cook the Skewers

Air Fryer Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes.
• Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overlapping. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F) and slightly crispy on the edges.

Oven Method:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F.
• Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. If using a rack, it allows the heat to circulate more evenly.
• Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
• For extra char, you can broil them for 1–2 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye so they don’t burn.

Grill Option (Optional):

• If you’d rather grill these, preheat your grill to medium-high.
• Place the skewers directly on the grill grates and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes until the chicken is done.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Once your skewers are fully cooked, remove them from the air fryer, oven, or grill.
• Brush or drizzle with more Bang Bang sauce while they’re still hot.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, a sprinkle of chili flakes if you want more heat, or toasted sesame seeds for a bit of crunch.
• Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping.

That’s it! You’ve just made a restaurant-worthy dish with simple steps and big flavors.

How to Serve

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile, which makes them so fun to serve. Whether you’re going casual or dressing them up for a dinner party, here are some ways to enjoy them:

• Serve them over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy basmati rice. The creamy-spicy sauce soaks into the rice and adds an extra layer of comfort.
• Tuck them into lettuce wraps for a lighter option. Add some thinly sliced cucumbers or shredded carrots for crunch.
• Add them to a big salad bowl with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a drizzle of lemon or lime juice. It’s fresh, balanced, and filling.
• Slide the cooked chicken off the skewers and wrap it in warm pita or flatbread for a fusion-style wrap. A little slaw or pickled onions make it even better.
• Serve as a fun party appetizer or snack with toothpicks instead of skewers—just cut the cooked chicken into smaller pieces and arrange on a platter with extra sauce for dipping.

No matter how you plate them, these skewers are sure to impress.

Pairing Suggestions

To really round out your meal, here are some of my favorite dishes and drinks that pair perfectly with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers:

Side Dishes

• Coconut Rice: The slightly sweet, fragrant flavor of coconut rice balances the spice of the Bang Bang sauce beautifully.
• Garlic Noodles: Savory and rich, these noodles are a great side if you’re going for an indulgent comfort-food vibe.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini roasted with a bit of olive oil, salt, and garlic for a colorful and healthy side.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds texture and freshness to the meal.
• Cucumber Salad: Cool, crisp, and lightly dressed with vinegar or lemon juice, it cuts through the richness of the sauce.

Beverage Pairings

Since we’re keeping it halal, here are a few alcohol-free beverage options that complement the flavors beautifully:

• Sparkling Lemonade: Tart and fizzy, it helps refresh your palate between bites.
• Mint Lime Cooler: A refreshing blend of lime juice, fresh mint, and soda water—it’s the perfect contrast to spicy food.
• Iced Green Tea or Jasmine Tea: These are light and cleansing, and pair nicely with bold flavors.
• Coconut Water with Pineapple: Naturally sweet and hydrating, it’s a tropical complement to the chili-honey notes in the sauce.

Each of these pairings brings balance to your meal and makes it feel even more special, whether you’re serving a crowd or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe is how well it holds up as leftovers. Whether you’re cooking for one, meal prepping for the week, or making a double batch for a family dinner, you’ll be glad to know that storing and reheating is a breeze—and the flavor only gets better with time.

How to Store Leftovers

Once your chicken has cooled completely, remove it from the skewers if you haven’t already. Place the pieces in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the leftover sauce in a separate container so it stays fresh and doesn’t make the chicken soggy.

If you’ve made a big batch of sauce, it will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just give it a stir before using again, as it may separate slightly.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze cooked chicken skewers:

• Let the chicken cool completely.
• Remove the pieces from the skewers and arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid (about 1–2 hours), then transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To freeze uncooked marinated chicken:

• After marinating, place the chicken (along with the marinade) in a freezer-safe zip-top bag.
• Squeeze out the excess air and lay the bag flat in the freezer.
• When you’re ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight and continue with the skewering and cooking steps.

Reheating Instructions

For best results, reheat the chicken in the air fryer or oven to restore some of that original crispiness.

Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F and reheat the chicken pieces for about 5–6 minutes, or until heated through.
Oven: Preheat to 375°F, place the chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for 10–12 minutes.
Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the chicken in 30-second bursts until warmed through. The texture won’t be as crisp, but the flavor will still be spot on.

Serve with a fresh drizzle of sauce or use any leftover sauce for dipping or sandwich spreads. You’ll be amazed how well this dish keeps its flavor even after being stored.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a straightforward recipe like this, a few small missteps can affect your results. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them for perfectly cooked, delicious Bang Bang Chicken every single time.

Skipping the Marination

It might be tempting to skip the marinating step, especially when you’re short on time. But trust me—it makes a huge difference. The marinade helps season the chicken deeply and keeps it juicy and flavorful. Even just 30 minutes in the fridge helps the spices soak into the meat. If you’ve got the time, go for at least an hour or even overnight.

Crowding the Skewers

When you thread the chicken onto the skewers, make sure to leave a little bit of space between each piece. This allows heat to circulate around the meat and cook it evenly. If the pieces are packed too tightly, they’ll steam rather than roast or crisp up, which can lead to uneven cooking.

Not Preheating Your Cooking Device

Whether you’re using an air fryer or oven, always preheat it. This ensures your chicken starts cooking immediately and helps lock in the juices while forming that golden exterior. Cooking in a cold appliance can result in soggy, undercooked skewers.

Using Cold Sauce on Hot Chicken

While it’s totally okay to prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge, try to let it come to room temperature before brushing it on or serving it. Cold sauce on hot chicken can dull the flavor and cool down the dish too quickly. Warm sauce = better experience.

Overcooking the Chicken

Because chicken thighs have more fat than breast meat, they’re a little more forgiving. Still, it’s important not to overcook them. Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Going too far beyond that can dry it out, even with the sauce.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure every batch of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers comes out perfectly tender, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.

Pro Tips

Want to elevate this dish even more? Here are some of my favorite tried-and-true tips that take this recipe from great to truly unforgettable.

Use Chicken Thighs for the Best Texture

While chicken breast is leaner, chicken thighs are where the flavor and tenderness are at. They’re juicier, more forgiving, and hold up better in high-heat cooking methods like air frying or grilling. If you’re after that melt-in-your-mouth texture, thighs are the way to go.

Soak Wooden Skewers in Advance

This is one of those easy-to-forget steps that makes a big difference. If you’re using wooden skewers and cooking with high heat, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken on. This helps prevent burning or snapping during cooking.

Make Extra Sauce

Seriously—make more than you think you’ll need. Not only is it great for drizzling over the skewers, but you can also use leftovers as a dip for fries, veggies, or even as a sandwich spread. It stores well and stays delicious all week.

Customize the Heat Level

This recipe has just the right balance of spice and sweetness, but feel free to tweak it. Want it spicier? Add more Sriracha or a pinch of cayenne. Want it milder? Cut back on the hot sauce or mix in a little extra mayo or honey to cool things down.

Let the Chicken Rest

After cooking, give the skewers a few minutes to rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, so every bite stays tender and flavorful. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.

These tips might seem small, but together they really level up your cooking game and help you get that perfect batch every single time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Absolutely. While chicken thighs are more tender and flavorful, chicken breast will work just fine if you prefer leaner meat. Just keep an eye on the cook time—breasts tend to dry out more quickly, so you may want to shorten the cooking time slightly.

Is this recipe halal-friendly?

Yes! This recipe is fully halal as long as you use halal-certified chicken and sauces. Be sure to double-check that your sweet chili sauce and Sriracha don’t contain non-halal ingredients, and you’re good to go.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it in the fridge. The sauce can also be made a few days ahead and stored separately. If you’re prepping for a party or busy week, you’ll love how easy it is to assemble and cook when ready.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No problem at all. You can bake these in the oven at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also grill them for a more smoky, charred flavor.

How do I make it low-carb?

Just use a sugar-free honey alternative and a low-carb sweet chili sauce. You’ll get the same punchy flavor without all the added sugars.

Can I freeze the chicken after it’s cooked?

Yes, you can. Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe scales up beautifully. Just make sure you have enough space in your air fryer or oven to cook in batches if needed.

Can I skip the skewers?

Sure thing. If you’d rather not use skewers, you can spread the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket and cook them that way. You’ll still get delicious, juicy results.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into a piece—it should be white and juicy with no pink in the center.

What can I do with leftovers?

Leftover Bang Bang Chicken is fantastic in wraps, rice bowls, salads, or even sandwiches. Just reheat gently and pair with some fresh greens or grains for a quick and satisfying meal.

Conclusion & Call to Action

If you’re looking for a bold, easy, and totally addictive chicken recipe that fits into your busy lifestyle, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are it. This dish has it all: juicy marinated chicken, a creamy-spicy-sweet sauce that brings everything to life, and a foolproof cooking method that makes even beginner cooks feel like kitchen pros. Whether you’re serving it as a fun weeknight dinner, prepping it for the week ahead, or impressing guests at your next gathering, these skewers will always deliver.

What I love most about this recipe is its balance. It’s indulgent enough to satisfy those comfort food cravings, but it’s also adaptable and light enough to fit into a health-conscious meal plan. You can keep it low-carb, serve it with veggies, or even throw it on a salad—and no matter how you enjoy it, that Bang Bang flavor shines through.

And let’s not forget how approachable this is. You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Just a handful of everyday ingredients, a bit of marinating time, and your preferred cooking method—air fryer, oven, or grill—and you’ve got something seriously special on your hands. Plus, it reheats well, freezes beautifully, and is endlessly customizable, making it a truly reliable go-to.

If you haven’t made this yet, what are you waiting for? Go grab your chicken thighs, mix up that sauce, and let the magic happen. I promise you won’t regret it.

When you do try it, I’d love to hear how it went. Leave a comment with your thoughts, let me know if you made any fun variations, and of course—don’t forget to snap a pic of your finished skewers. Share it on social media and tag me so I can celebrate your delicious creation right along with you. Your version might even inspire someone else to give it a try!

Ready to get cooking? You’ve got this—and these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are going to be your new favorite dinner in no time.

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