Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

There’s something universally appealing about skewered food. Maybe it’s the casual, finger-food vibe or the way flavors intensify when bite-sized ingredients are cooked close together over high heat. Whatever the reason, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers deliver on all fronts. They’re juicy, bold, spicy, and just a little bit sweet—all packed onto a skewer and ready in under 30 minutes. These are the kinds of skewers that fly off the platter whether you’re serving them at a party or simply making dinner at home.

This recipe is inspired by the well-loved Bang Bang Chicken made famous by Asian-American fusion restaurants and fast-casual chains. Typically, the dish features crispy chicken pieces drizzled with a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce made from mayonnaise, chili sauce, and sriracha. Here, we take those same flavors and give them a low-carb makeover while also changing up the cooking method. Instead of deep-frying, the chicken is marinated in spices and olive oil, then air-fried or baked until golden. It’s faster, healthier, and just as satisfying.

I first made these skewers on a weeknight when I wanted something fun but easy, something that felt like takeout but without the heaviness or the cost. I had some boneless chicken thighs in the fridge and a handful of sauces in the pantry. With a bit of improvisation, the Bang Bang sauce came together, and the result was so delicious it immediately earned a spot on my dinner rotation. The air fryer made the chicken extra tender and slightly crisp around the edges, and the sauce—creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet—added the perfect finishing touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons why these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers might just become your new favorite meal. They’re quick to make, incredibly flavorful, customizable, and healthy without tasting like a compromise. Whether you’re making dinner for yourself, your family, or your guests, this recipe is a reliable winner.

First, the flavor is absolutely addicting. The marinade for the chicken is simple—olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper—but it does a great job of seasoning the meat and creating a savory base. Then comes the real star: the Bang Bang sauce. This sauce strikes the perfect balance between creamy, spicy, and sweet. With just a few ingredients—mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and a pinch of salt—you get a bold, restaurant-quality sauce that elevates everything it touches. It clings to the chicken, caramelizes slightly in the air fryer, and finishes each bite with a kick that keeps you coming back.

Another reason to love this recipe is how quick and easy it is. You can have everything ready in under 30 minutes, including marinating and cooking. It’s a fantastic option for weeknight dinners when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen but still want something satisfying. The air fryer gets the job done fast, but you can also use your oven with excellent results. Either method produces juicy chicken with a golden exterior and a satisfying texture.

Health Benefits

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers might taste indulgent, but they’re actually a smart choice if you’re trying to eat well without sacrificing flavor. With a few thoughtful ingredient swaps and a lighter cooking method, this recipe checks many boxes for those seeking high-protein, low-carb, and balanced meals.

Let’s start with the chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are used here because they’re naturally flavorful, juicy, and a little more forgiving than chicken breasts. While they do contain slightly more fat, that fat contributes to satiety and helps prevent the meat from drying out. Chicken thighs are also a fantastic source of complete protein, which means they provide all the essential amino acids your body needs for muscle repair, immune function, and more.

The marinade is both simple and effective. It uses olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to flavor the chicken without adding sugars, starches, or processed additives. Olive oil, in particular, is a healthy fat that supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps the seasoning stick to the meat and enhances the crisping effect in the air fryer.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is how quickly and easily it comes together. Whether you’re cooking for one, two, or a family of four, you can scale this recipe up or down with little effort. The preparation and cook times are fast, the cleanup is minimal, and the result is a meal that tastes like you spent much more time than you actually did.

Let’s break down the full timeline from prep to plate.

Marinating time is minimal. While 30 minutes is recommended to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors, you can extend that to several hours or even overnight if needed. The marinade is simple and doesn’t rely on acidic components that would break down the chicken too quickly, so it’s flexible enough to fit your schedule.

Cooking the chicken takes about 12 to 15 minutes in the air fryer, depending on the size of your pieces and the strength of your appliance. You’ll flip the skewers halfway through to ensure even browning and crisping. If you prefer to use the oven, baking at 400°F should take about 20 to 25 minutes.

As for serving size, this recipe typically yields four servings. Each serving includes approximately five to six ounces of cooked chicken, depending on how much you load onto each skewer. If you’re serving these as appetizers, you could stretch the recipe to serve more people with smaller portions.

Now let’s look at the nutritional breakdown per serving, assuming full-fat mayonnaise, standard sweet chili sauce, and honey are used.

Calories: 310
Protein: 28 grams
Fat: 20 grams
Saturated Fat: 4 grams
Carbohydrates: 6 grams
Sugar: 4 grams
Fiber: 0 grams
Cholesterol: 95 milligrams
Sodium: 520 milligrams

🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Bang Bang Chicken is one of those dishes that manages to hit every single flavor note—sweet, spicy, creamy, and just the tiniest bit tangy. Wrap that flavor around juicy chicken thighs, skewer it, crisp it up in the air fryer (or oven), and drizzle on that signature sauce? Oh yes. We’re in flavor-town, and you’re the mayor.

Let’s break it down step-by-step so you get golden brown skewers with just the right amount of heat and char every single time.

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🧄 Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start with 1.5 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Why thighs? They stay juicier and more flavorful during high-heat cooking. If you prefer breast meat, go for it—but keep an eye on the cook time to prevent drying out.

Chop the chicken into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep them roughly the same size so they cook evenly. A few uneven pieces? No worries—just put the smaller chunks toward the middle of the skewer where they’ll be more protected from direct heat.

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🥣 Step 2: Season & Marinate

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

Toss the chicken cubes in the spice mixture until everything is well coated. The paprika gives them that beautiful warm color, while the garlic powder and salt build a savory base.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you’re in a rush, 15 minutes at room temp still works in a pinch, but longer marination = deeper flavor.

💡 Want to go big? Add a splash of lime juice or rice vinegar to the marinade for an extra pop of tang.

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🍯 Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While your chicken is marinating, it’s time to whip up the star of the show: the Bang Bang Sauce.

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise (full-fat gives the creamiest texture)

• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce (use low-carb if needed)

• 1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust based on your spice preference)

• 1 tsp honey (or sugar-free alternative for keto)

• Pinch of salt

Taste and adjust. Want it spicier? Add more sriracha. Too thick? A splash of water or lime juice will thin it without diluting the flavor.

Cover and refrigerate the sauce until ready to serve. Bonus? This sauce also makes an amazing dip for fries, roasted veggies, or shrimp.

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🍢 Step 4: Skewer the Chicken

Before you thread your chicken, soak your wooden skewers in water for 15–30 minutes if you’re using them. This helps prevent burning, especially in the oven or on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you’re good to go.

Thread 4–5 chicken cubes per skewer, leaving a little space between each piece for airflow. You want them close enough to stay juicy but not jammed together.

Optional: Alternate chicken with bell pepper pieces, red onion, mushrooms, or zucchini to turn them into full meal skewers.

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🔥 Step 5: Air Fry (or Oven Bake)

🍃 Air Fryer Method (Best for Speed and Crisp)

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

2. Lightly oil the basket or use parchment paper with perforations.

3. Place the skewers in a single layer—don’t overcrowd.

4. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. Brush with Bang Bang sauce during the last 3 minutes of cooking for a caramelized glaze.

The result? Crispy edges, tender inside, and that perfect sweet-heat flavor.

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🔥 Oven Method (Great for Bigger Batches)

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.

2. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment and place a rack on top if you have one.

3. Arrange the skewers in a single layer.

4. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. Broil for the last 2–3 minutes to get that caramelized finish.

6. Brush the chicken with the Bang Bang sauce before broiling, and again once out of the oven.

💡 Want even more color? Sprinkle with chili flakes or smoked paprika before cooking.

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🛑 Step 6: Rest & Finish with Sauce

Once your skewers are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter and let them rest for 2–3 minutes. This allows the juices to settle and keeps the meat from drying out.

Then, brush generously with more Bang Bang sauce, and don’t forget to serve extra sauce on the side. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds, chopped parsley, or red chili flakes for that final flourish.

Boom. You just made restaurant-worthy skewers in your own kitchen. 👏

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🍽️ How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

These skewers are so versatile, they can go from party tray to family dinner to next-day lunch without missing a beat. Here are some of the best ways to serve Bang Bang Chicken:

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🎉 As an Appetizer

• Slide the skewers onto a serving tray and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro or parsley.

• Serve with small dipping bowls of extra Bang Bang sauce.

• Add a stack of lime wedges for a zesty squeeze right before eating.

Perfect for game nights, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.

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🍚 As a Main Course

• Serve 2–3 skewers per person with:

  • Steamed white or jasmine rice

  • Roasted or sautéed veggies

  • A side salad with sesame dressing or a light slaw

For low-carb or keto, pair with:

• Cauliflower rice

• Zucchini noodles

• Cucumber-avocado salad with lime

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🥗 In a Bowl

• Build a “Bang Bang Bowl”:

  • Base: rice, greens, or cauliflower rice

  • Toppings: chopped skewers, shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, avocado

  • Drizzle with extra sauce and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts or sesame seeds

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🥪 Wrap It Up

• Remove chicken from skewers and stuff it into:

  • Lettuce wraps

  • Warm tortillas

  • Low-carb pita bread

Add shredded cabbage, pickled onions, and more sauce. Insanely good.

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🥗 Pairing Suggestions

Bang Bang Chicken’s sweet heat pairs best with sides that cool things down or add crunch and freshness. Here’s what goes beautifully with it:

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🥦 Fresh Veggie Sides

• Asian Slaw – Shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers with a sesame-lime vinaigrette.

• Cucumber Salad – Sliced cucumber, red onion, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.

• Edamame – Lightly salted, steamed or stir-fried with garlic.

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🍚 Rice & Noodle Options

• Coconut Rice – Creamy and slightly sweet to balance the spice.

• Garlic Fried Rice – Savory and satisfying.

• Rice Noodles with Veggies – Tossed in sesame oil and soy sauce.

For low-carb/keto:

• Cauliflower Rice – Light, fluffy, and the perfect base.

• Zucchini Noodles – Fresh and crunchy.

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🍹 Halal-Friendly Drinks

• Sparkling Water with Lime and Mint – Light, fizzy, and refreshing.

• Thai Iced Tea (Caffeine-Free Version) – Sweet, creamy, and cooling.

• Coconut Lime Cooler – Hydrating with a tropical twist.

• Berry Hibiscus Iced Tea – Tart and fruity—great with spice.

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🍢 Crowd-Pleasing Platter Idea

Make a full Bang Bang feast with:

• Chicken skewers

• Asian slaw

• Sticky rice

• Mini veggie egg rolls or dumplings

• Fresh fruit slices for a refreshing finish

Easy to prep, fun to eat, and totally crowd-friendly!

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❄️ Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

These skewers reheat beautifully and are perfect for make-ahead meals, quick lunches, or party prep. Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:

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🧊 Storage (Fridge)

• Let chicken skewers cool completely before storing.

• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

• Store the sauce separately to keep the coating fresh when reheating.

💡 Meal prep tip: Store individual servings with veggies and rice in containers for grab-and-go lunches.

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❄️ Freezing

To freeze cooked skewers:

1. Remove from skewers for easier storage.

2. Cool completely.

3. Wrap portions tightly in foil or plastic wrap.

4. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

To freeze raw (marinated) chicken:

• Mix chicken with seasoning and oil.

• Freeze in a zip-top bag (no skewers).

• Thaw in the fridge overnight before skewering and cooking.

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🔥 Reheating

Air Fryer (Best Method):

• Preheat to 350°F.

• Reheat skewers for 5–7 minutes until hot.

Oven:

• Preheat to 350°F.

• Wrap skewers in foil or place in a covered baking dish.

• Heat for 10–15 minutes.

Microwave:

• Remove from skewer.

• Place in a microwave-safe dish with a damp paper towel.

• Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.

💡 Re-brush with sauce before or after reheating to bring that flavor back to life!

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are surprisingly easy to whip up, but there are a few common mistakes that can sneak in and throw off your final dish. Avoid these little slip-ups to keep your skewers juicy, flavorful, and perfectly saucy every time.

1. Skipping the Marination Step

Even though the marinade is simple—just olive oil and spices—it really helps tenderize the chicken and deepen the flavor. Skipping it or rushing through it can leave your chicken a little bland. Even just 30 minutes in the fridge makes a big difference.

2. Overcrowding the Skewers

It’s tempting to pack those skewers full, especially when you’re hungry and in a rush, but overcrowding prevents proper airflow in the air fryer. Leave small gaps between the chicken pieces to ensure even cooking and those beautifully crispy edges.

3. Using Cold Chicken

Always let your marinated chicken sit at room temp for about 15 minutes before air frying. Cold chicken straight from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking and rubbery texture. A quick rest makes all the difference.

4. Under- or Overcooking

Every air fryer is a little different, so cook times may vary. Start checking around the 12-minute mark and use a meat thermometer if you can—165°F is the magic number for juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.

5. Adding the Sauce Too Early

Brushing on the Bang Bang sauce before cooking can cause it to burn due to the mayo and honey. Lightly baste the skewers during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, then brush again after for that creamy, glossy finish.

Avoid these common pitfalls, and your skewers will come out juicy, golden, and packed with sweet-and-spicy flavor every time.

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💡 Pro Tips

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers already check all the boxes—fast, flavorful, and totally air fryer-friendly—but if you want to make them truly next-level, these pro tips are here to help.

1. Use Chicken Thighs for Ultimate Juiciness

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs are where it’s at for skewers. They stay juicy, have more flavor, and are less likely to dry out under high heat. Just trim excess fat and cut into even cubes for best results.

2. Double the Sauce

Trust me, you’ll want more Bang Bang sauce. Double the recipe and keep extra in the fridge for dipping, drizzling over veggies, or even slathering on sandwiches. It stays good for up to a week and makes everything more delicious.

3. Add Veggies to Stretch the Meal

Skewers are a great opportunity to sneak in some veggies—plus, it looks pretty on the plate. Bell peppers, red onions, mushrooms, and zucchini all roast beautifully in the air fryer and pair perfectly with the creamy heat of the sauce.

4. Soak Wooden Skewers Ahead

If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for 20–30 minutes before threading on the chicken. This prevents them from burning or catching fire, especially in high-heat cooking methods like air frying or grilling.

5. Serve with Low-Carb Sides

Keep things keto-friendly by pairing your skewers with cauliflower rice, a crisp slaw, or a cucumber salad. These sides add crunch and freshness while keeping your carbs in check.

6. Meal Prep Like a Pro

These skewers reheat beautifully. Cook a big batch and store in the fridge for easy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. The flavors get even better the next day, and they’re just as tasty cold.

Use these tips to add versatility, maximize flavor, and make the most out of every bite!

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are quick, easy, and fun—but if you’ve got questions before firing up the air fryer, you’re not alone. Let’s tackle the most common ones to help you feel confident and ready to cook!

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Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes! Chicken breasts will work fine—just make sure you cut them into even-sized pieces and don’t overcook them, since they tend to dry out faster than thighs. Start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark if using breasts.

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Can I bake these in the oven instead of air frying?

Totally! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment. Bake for about 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken hits 165°F internally. Finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes if you want extra browning.

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Is this recipe keto or low carb?

Yes—just make sure to use a low-carb sweet chili sauce and a keto-friendly honey substitute (like allulose or monk fruit syrup). With those swaps, the recipe stays low in carbs but high in flavor.

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Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance, then cook when you’re ready. The sauce can be prepped and stored in the fridge for up to a week, so it’s a great make-ahead meal.

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How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store cooked skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or pop them back in the air fryer for 5–6 minutes to restore some crispness.

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Can I freeze Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Yes—freeze uncooked marinated chicken cubes in a zip-top bag, and they’ll be ready to skewer and cook later. You can also freeze cooked skewers, though the texture may be slightly softer when reheated.

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🥰 Conclusion & Call to Action

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are the kind of dish that’s so fun to make and even more fun to eat. They’ve got everything you want in a weeknight dinner or party appetizer—bold flavor, juicy chicken, and that irresistible creamy-spicy Bang Bang sauce that keeps you going back for just one more bite.

What I love most about this recipe is that it feels like a treat, but it’s secretly healthy, low-carb, and so quick to pull together. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, throwing together a casual dinner, or feeding a crowd on game day, these skewers totally deliver.

The air fryer makes things lightning fast with no mess, and the sauce? It’s the kind of thing you’ll want to keep on hand at all times. Seriously, it’s like magic on everything—chicken, shrimp, roasted veggies, even as a dip for sweet potato fries.

And let’s not forget the versatility. You can serve them on skewers, pop them in lettuce wraps, slice them over a salad, or tuck them into a low-carb tortilla for the best wrap ever. It’s one recipe, but the possibilities are endless.

So here’s your sign to give these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers a try. Grab your skewers, whisk up that sauce, and let your air fryer work its magic. You’ll have a crave-worthy, restaurant-style meal on the table in less than 30 minutes—and one that fits your low-carb lifestyle beautifully.

If you do make them, I’d love to hear how they turned out! Leave a comment below, share your own twist, or tag me in your photos. Seeing your creations always makes my day.

Now go on—get skewering! 🔥🍢💛

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