Let’s get one thing straight: if you’ve never had Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, you’re seriously missing out. These spicy, creamy, sweet-and-savory bites are the culinary equivalent of a mic drop. 🔥
I first stumbled upon these beauties at a summer BBQ, and let me tell you—I basically forgot every other dish on the table. The flavor? Next-level. The sauce? Slap-your-fork-out-of-your-hand good. Ever since, these skewers have become my go-to for impressing guests and satisfying random Thursday cravings. 🙃
So, want to make skewers that people actually fight over at potlucks? Grab a cold drink and let’s get spicy.
What Is Bang Bang Chicken Anyway?
If you’re imagining a loud explosion of flavor, you’re absolutely right. 💥
Bang Bang Chicken is all about juicy grilled or baked chicken smothered in a creamy, spicy sauce made with mayo, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. It originally popped up in Asian-American cuisine (thank you, fusion food gods), and it’s since become a hit everywhere from food trucks to fancy patios.
When you put that saucy magic on a skewer? Game. Over.
Why You’ll Love These Skewers (Trust Me)
Aside from being absurdly good, these skewers are:
- Super easy to prep – Minimal ingredients, max flavor.
- Crowd-pleasers – I’ve literally never had leftovers. Ever.
- Grill or oven friendly – You do you, rain or shine.
- Make-ahead approved – Perfect for parties, meal prep, or late-night snacking (no judgment).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk building blocks. This recipe keeps it simple, but every ingredient pulls its weight.
For the Chicken:
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you’re feeling rebellious)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water (unless you like surprises in your food…)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tbsp sriracha (depending on how wild you are)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, but adds a nice balance)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar (for a lil’ zing)
👉 Pro Tip: Mix the sauce ahead of time and stash it in the fridge. It only gets better as it chills.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers (Like a Pro)
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Cut your chicken into bite-sized chunks, about 1.5 inches wide. Not too big or you’ll be chewing forever. Not too small or you’ll be pulling burnt chicken off a stick. Trust me, size matters here.
Toss the chicken in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—or overnight if you’re Type A like that.
Step 2: Skewer Up
Thread the chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers. Try not to overpack them—you want those babies to cook evenly.
Step 3: Grill or Bake
- Grilling? Preheat to medium-high and grill for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven-bound? Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 18–20 minutes or until the internal temp hits 165°F.
Oh, and if you want that crispy finish? Hit them with a quick broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
Step 4: Sauce It Up
While the chicken cooks, whisk together all the Bang Bang sauce ingredients in a bowl. Go ahead, taste-test—no one’s watching.
Once the skewers are done, drizzle or brush the sauce generously over them. Or serve it on the side for dipping. (Though I say, drown them.)
Optional Toppings (AKA Flavor Bling ✨)
Wanna take things over the top? Here’s what you can sprinkle on those saucy skewers:
- Chopped green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Crushed peanuts
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges for squeezing
A little garnish = a lot of drama. And let’s be honest—we love the drama.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Trying to turn this into a full meal? These sides pair perfectly:
- Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice
- Chilled cucumber salad
- Mango slaw
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Asian-style noodles
Or just eat the skewers straight off the tray like I do sometimes. Zero shame in that game.
Make-Ahead Tips & Leftover Love
Meal Prep Hero
Make the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store separately in the fridge. When it’s dinnertime, just cook and serve.
Leftovers?
IF—and that’s a big if—you have leftovers, pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer.
Sauce Storage
Bang Bang sauce keeps well for 3–4 days in the fridge, and it’s awesome on grilled shrimp, veggies, or even sandwiches. Honestly, put it on a flip-flop and it’ll still taste good. 😎
Let’s Talk Customization
Not a fan of chicken? Gasp. It’s okay. I won’t judge. You can still ride the Bang Bang train.
- Swap with shrimp – Quick-cooking and juicy.
- Try tofu – Press it, cube it, and let it soak up that spicy goodness.
- Use cauliflower – Yes, veggies can be exciting too.
Make it yours. That’s the beauty of it.
Frequently Asked Bang Bang Questions
Can I use store-bought Bang Bang sauce?
Sure, if you’re in a rush. But IMO, homemade always wins in flavor (and bragging rights).
Is Bang Bang Chicken spicy?
It can be! But you’re in control here. Dial up or down the sriracha based on your heat tolerance.
Can I cook the skewers in the air fryer?
Heck yes. Set it to 400°F and cook for 10–12 minutes. Shake halfway through for even crispiness.
Final Thoughts: Bring the Bang
So, are you ready to shake up your dinner routine with something bold, saucy, and a little addictive? Bang Bang Chicken Skewers aren’t just a recipe—they’re an experience.
Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just yourself (with no plans to share), these skewers bring the bang every single time.
Now, go grab those skewers and start stacking. And remember—double the sauce, always. 😉
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Grill or oven
- Whisk
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring spoons/cups
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers soaked, if using
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 –2 tbsp sriracha to taste
- 1 tbsp honey optional
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped green onions
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Crushed peanuts
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken:
- Cut chicken into 1.5-inch pieces. Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Make the Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and rice vinegar. Set aside or refrigerate.
Skewer the Chicken:
- Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers, spacing evenly.
Cook the Skewers:
- Grill Method: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill skewers 5–6 minutes per side or until cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- Oven Method: Bake at 425°F for 18–20 minutes, or until cooked through. Broil 2–3 minutes at the end for browning.
Serve:
- Drizzle or brush Bang Bang sauce over cooked skewers. Garnish with toppings as desired.
