As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of spices began to weave through the air, and I couldn’t help but smile. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers—a dish that’s not only a flavor-packed delight but also a true time-saver. These skewers bring you tender, juicy chicken brushed with a creamy, spicy homemade bang bang sauce, making them perfect whether you’re serving them as a lively appetizer or a vibrant main course. With the convenience of the air fryer, you’ll have these delicious skewers ready in a flash, freeing up your evening for what truly matters. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into a dish that’s sure to impress your guests—and your taste buds! Are you ready to elevate your dinner game?
Why will you crave these skewers?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers delivers a perfect burst of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Quick Preparation: These skewers come together in no time, thanks to the air fryer—ideal for those bustling weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Versatile Options: You can easily switch up proteins, opting for shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for something different, making it a great choice for everyone!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a quick meal, these skewers shine as both appetizers and main courses.
Healthy Indulgence: With only around 253 calories per skewer, they offer a guilt-free way to enjoy your favorite flavors.
Pair them with fresh vegetables or some extra bang bang sauce for a complete experience! You might also enjoy other delightful recipes like Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Street Corn Chicken for more flavor-packed meals.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Ingredients
• Let’s gather everything you need to create these flavor-packed skewers!
For the Skewers
- Wooden Skewers – Soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent charring during cooking.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (2 lbs) – The primary protein; chicken thighs work too, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Adds moisture and helps the spices cling beautifully to the chicken.
For the Seasoning
- Paprika (1 tsp) – Infuses a warm color and subtle depth of flavor to the chicken.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Enriches the dish with a hint of garlic essence for added taste.
- Kosher Salt (1 tsp) – Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust to your taste.
- Black Pepper (½ tsp) – Adds a mild heat and complements the other flavors.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mayonnaise (1 ¼ cups, 290 g) – The creamy foundation of the bang bang sauce; a homemade version can work wonders too.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce (⅔ cup) – Brings sweetness and a distinctive flavor that makes this sauce special.
- Sriracha (2 tsp, or more to taste) – The spice that gives the sauce a daring kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
- Honey (2 tbsp) – Balances the overall flavor profile with a touch of sweetness, counteracting the heat from the Sriracha.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to tantalizing your taste buds with some delicious Bang Bang Chicken Skewers!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by cutting 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into cubes. In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Mix until each piece is evenly coated, allowing the spices to adhere beautifully. Let the chicken marinate for about 15 minutes to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
While the chicken is marinating, soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent charring. Once soaked, thread 4-5 pieces of marinated chicken onto each skewer. Ensure the chicken is packed closely but not too tight, as this will help them cook evenly when grilling. Get ready for the next steps as you prepare your sauce!
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups of mayonnaise, ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, 2 teaspoons of Sriracha, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Adjust the Sriracha to your heat preference for your homemade bang bang sauce. Set aside half of the sauce for drizzling later, ensuring a burst of flavor in each bite of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.
Step 4: Brush the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) while you brush the skewers. Using half of the prepared bang bang sauce, liberally brush each chicken skewer, ensuring every piece is glazed with that creamy, spicy goodness. This will help create a rich flavor and delightful crispy texture when air-frying the skewers.
Step 5: Air Fry the Skewers
Place the sauce-coated chicken skewers in a single layer inside the preheated air fryer basket. Depending on your air fryer’s capacity, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Air fry the skewers for 11-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and they are golden brown on the outside.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, carefully remove the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers from the air fryer. Drizzle the reserved bang bang sauce over the skewers for extra flavor and presentation. Serve immediately while warm, either as a vibrant appetizer or as a standout main course, paired with fresh veggies or a dipping sauce for that complete experience!
What to Serve with Easy Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Elevate your meal experience with these delightful pairings that will complement the zesty flavors of your skewers.
- Creamy Coleslaw: Offers a crisp, refreshing crunch to balance the spicy and creamy notes of the skewers.
- Coconut Rice: This subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with the spiciness, creating a comforting and satisfying side.
- Grilled Vegetables: A medley of colorful veggies adds various textures, while their slight char enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
- Quinoa Salad: Packed with fresh herbs and lemon zest, it brings a burst of brightness, making for a light and tasty complement.
- Spicy Dipping Sauce: Serve extra bang bang sauce or a sriracha-lime sauce for an additional kick that lovers of heat will appreciate.
- Light Beer or Sparkling Water: Refreshing beverages can quench thirst without overwhelming the palate, perfect for a casual gathering.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A medley of pineapple, mango, and kiwi adds a sweet and tangy touch, providing a delightful contrast to the skewers’ richness.
- Cornbread Muffins: Their fluffy texture and slight sweetness provide a satisfying counterpart to the spice, rounding out your meal perfectly.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: Customization Ideas
Feel free to get creative and tailor the flavors of your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers to suit your taste or dietary needs!
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Shrimp or Tofu: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a delightful twist. Both options still soak up the delicious bang bang sauce beautifully!
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Spicy Variants: Swap out Sriracha with your favorite hot sauce for an entirely different flavor profile. Adjust based on how heat-tolerant your crowd is.
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Greek Yogurt Alternative: For a lighter and tangy bang bang sauce, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It offers a fresh alternative and still packs a flavor punch!
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Herb-Infused Oil: Use garlic or herb-infused olive oil for brushing to enhance the flavor of your skewers. This small tweak can take your dish to the next level.
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Veggie Skewers: Add colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes in between the chicken pieces. It not only boosts flavor but also makes for a stunning presentation.
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Baking Option: If you prefer baking, arrange the skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Coconut Cream Twist: For a tropical vibe, mix in a spoonful of coconut cream into the bang bang sauce. This adds an exotic sweetness that’s hard to resist!
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Sweet BBQ Flare: Combine your bang bang sauce with a hint of barbecue sauce for an entirely new flavor experience. This adjusts the sweetness while introducing smokiness.
Ready to impress your guests or family with these easy adaptations? Pair them today with a side like Garlic Butter Chicken or enjoy alongside French Onion Chicken for a full meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can marinate the chicken skewers up to 3 days ahead; simply mix the chicken with olive oil and spices, then refrigerate in an airtight container. The homemade bang bang sauce can also be prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week—just remember to reserve half for drizzling later. When it’s time to serve, simply thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, brush with the sauce, and air fry as directed for delicious results that are just as flavorful!
How to Store and Freeze Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer or on a skillet for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen skewers, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until heated through, ensuring they maintain their juicy texture.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare and marinate the skewers ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, making mealtime a breeze!
Expert Tips for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
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Soak Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking. This ensures your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers come out perfectly cooked and not charred.
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Uniform Chicken Pieces: Cut the chicken into uniform cubes for even cooking. Inconsistent sizes can lead to some pieces being undercooked while others are overdone.
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Reserve Sauce for Drizzling: Set aside half of the bang bang sauce before coating the chicken. Drizzling the reserved sauce on the finished skewers enhances flavor and presentation.
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Thermometer Check: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Skewers should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.
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Adjust Heat Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to suit your heat preference. This allows everyone to enjoy their Bang Bang Chicken Skewers just the way they like!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for my Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Absolutely! Choosing the right chicken is key. Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are firm and have no dark spots. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a flavorful alternative, but remember they will need a slightly longer cooking time—about 1-2 minutes more.
How should I store leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
For best results, store your leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat them gently in the air fryer or on a skillet to keep them crispy and juicy!
Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
Certainly! To freeze these beauties, first, allow them to cool completely. Arrange the cooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date to keep track!
What should I do if my Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are not cooking evenly?
Very! If you find some skewers are undercooked while others are overdone, it may be due to uneven chicken sizes or overcrowding in the air fryer. To avoid this, make sure to cut your chicken pieces uniformly, and cook in batches if your air fryer is small. Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness can help, too—just aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. Use gluten-free mayonnaise for a gluten-free option, or try Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version. If you’re serving pets, remember that some ingredients like garlic powder are not safe for them, so keep that in mind when sharing your delicious skewers!
How can I adjust the spice level in the Bang Bang sauce?
Absolutely! To modify the heat level, start with 2 teaspoons of Sriracha in the bang bang sauce, then taste and add more if desired. Alternatively, swap out Sriracha for a milder sauce like sweet chili sauce or a hotter one to dial up the spice! Enjoy experimenting with flavors!
Savory Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for Quick Flavor Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut chicken into cubes and marinate with oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for 15 minutes.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey for the sauce.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Brush chicken with half of the prepared bang bang sauce.
- Air fry skewers for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve warm, drizzled with reserved sauce.
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