Bang Bang Chicken Skewers – Easy Air Fryer Recipe

There’s something about skewered food that instantly makes it more exciting. Maybe it’s the casual, hands-on feel or how each bite is perfectly seasoned. Either way, this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe delivers big-time flavor with minimal effort. If you’re craving a dinner that’s juicy, a little spicy, and seriously satisfying, this is the one. Plus, it’s all made right in the air fryer—so you get crispy, golden chicken without the mess of deep frying.

What makes these skewers so special is the combination of simple ingredients coming together in a big, bold way. The chicken is marinated in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper—just enough to give it warmth and depth. Then we take things to the next level with a creamy Bang Bang sauce that’s tangy, sweet, and spicy all at once. A blend of full-fat mayo, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and a pinch of salt gives you that signature flavor that’s totally crave-worthy.

I first made these for a casual family dinner, hoping to try something new that wouldn’t take all night. The moment those skewers came out of the air fryer, golden and lightly charred around the edges, I knew we were onto something. But when we added the Bang Bang sauce? Game changer. Every bite was bursting with flavor, and we couldn’t stop going back for more. Since then, it’s been a regular in our meal plan rotation—perfect for quick weeknight dinners, lazy weekends, or meal prep lunches.

Whether you’re new to air frying or already obsessed with it, this recipe makes it easy to feel like a kitchen rock star. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making (and eating) these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers.

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe

There are so many reasons why this recipe has become one of my top go-to meals—and once you try it, you’ll understand why. First off, the flavor is just unreal. You get this smoky, savory marinated chicken with a crispy edge, and then that creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce drizzled on top? It’s the kind of sauce you want to dip everything in.

One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is how easy it is. There are no complicated techniques, no unusual ingredients, and no fuss. You’re working with things you probably already have in your pantry—olive oil, spices, mayo, hot sauce. If you can cube chicken and stir a sauce together, you can make this dish. It’s really that approachable.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve these skewers on a bed of rice, tuck them into flatbreads, or pile them into lettuce cups for a low-carb twist. They’re great for meal prep too—just cook a batch, store them in the fridge, and you’ve got flavorful protein ready to go for salads, wraps, or grain bowls all week.

Another reason to love this recipe is that it’s family-friendly. The heat level is totally adjustable, so if you’re cooking for kids or people who prefer mild flavors, you can dial back the Sriracha or use a sweeter chili sauce. On the flip side, if you love spice, just turn it up. The sauce is completely customizable to your taste.

And finally, let’s not forget the air fryer magic. You get that golden, slightly crispy exterior on the chicken without frying in oil. It’s faster, cleaner, and healthier—all while delivering that perfect texture you’d usually only get from grilling or pan-frying.

Health Benefits

This recipe isn’t just about bold flavor—it also brings some solid health perks to the table. Chicken thighs, the star of this dish, are a fantastic source of high-quality protein. They’re rich in iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy production, immune function, and maintaining lean muscle. While they do contain a bit more fat than chicken breast, that extra fat helps lock in moisture and keeps the meat juicy and satisfying.

By using olive oil in the marinade, you’re also adding a heart-healthy fat known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which can help support heart health and reduce inflammation over time.

The Bang Bang sauce, while creamy and indulgent, can also be adjusted to suit your nutritional needs. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can opt for a sugar-free honey alternative and choose a low-sugar chili sauce. You can even use a light or avocado-based mayo to cut down on calories and increase healthy fats.

Using the air fryer instead of deep frying makes a huge difference, too. You get that satisfying crispy texture without the added oil or grease. Air frying reduces overall fat intake while still allowing the natural flavors of the chicken to shine. Plus, it keeps your kitchen cooler and cleaner—especially on busy weeknights.

Another great benefit? You control the ingredients. There are no hidden preservatives or additives like you might find in frozen or takeout options. You can choose high-quality chicken, adjust your seasoning, and tweak the sauce exactly how you like it.

If you’re trying to eat more whole foods, reduce processed meals, or just cook more at home, this recipe hits all the right notes. It proves that healthy meals can be crave-worthy, fun, and absolutely packed with flavor.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Before you jump into cooking, let’s take a look at how long this will take and how much food you’ll end up with. One of the best parts about this recipe is how quickly it comes together—especially if you prep the marinade ahead of time.

Preparation Time:

• Chicken marinating time: 30 minutes (can be done up to 24 hours in advance)
• Active prep time: 15 minutes
• Air fryer cook time: 12–15 minutes

Total Time: Approximately 1 hour (including marination)

Servings:
This recipe yields 4 generous servings, with each person getting about 2 skewers of chicken. You can easily scale this up or down depending on your needs.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 420 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 6g
  Note: These values can vary depending on the brand of mayonnaise and chili sauce used, as well as your specific portion size.

This dish is naturally gluten-free (just check your chili sauce labels to confirm), low in carbs, and rich in healthy fats and protein. If you’re following a low-carb or keto-style eating plan, it’s easy to make this work with sugar-free sauce substitutions.

Whether you’re meal prepping, eating lighter, or just looking for something high-protein and delicious, these skewers are a strong option to keep in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients List

Let’s break down everything you’ll need to make these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. The ingredient list is short and sweet, but each component plays an important role in flavor and texture.

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized cubes
  Chicken thighs are perfect here—they stay juicy and tender even after air frying.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  This adds moisture and helps the spices cling to the meat while contributing healthy fats.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  Paprika adds color and a mild smokiness that pairs beautifully with the sweet-spicy sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  Garlic powder gives that deep savory backbone without overwhelming the marinade.
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
  Salt and pepper are essential for balance and bringing all the other flavors to life.

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for richness, or substitute with a lighter version if preferred)
• 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (look for one with a balance of tang and sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha or other hot sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar-free honey alternative (for a lower-carb option)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, taste the sauce before adding)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Sesame seeds
• Extra chili flakes for heat

Additional Equipment Needed:

• Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes)
• Air fryer (basket-style or tray-style will both work)
• Mixing bowls and a whisk for the sauce

With these simple ingredients, you’re all set to make a dish that’s full of flavor, texture, and that perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and sweet.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

This part is where the magic really happens. These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers come together in just a few easy steps. I’ll guide you through every part of the process so that even if you’re totally new to cooking, you’ll feel confident making these like a pro.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by prepping your chicken. Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best results—they’re more forgiving than chicken breasts and stay juicy after air frying.

• Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs.
• Cut the thighs into bite-sized chunks, roughly 1½ inches each. Try to keep them close in size so they cook evenly.
• Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Now it’s time to infuse the chicken with flavor. This marinade is quick and easy, but it really brings depth to the final dish.

• To the bowl of chicken, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
• Use clean hands or a spoon to toss the chicken until each piece is thoroughly coated in the oil and spices.
• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a zip-top bag.
• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in. If you have more time, you can marinate it for up to 24 hours in the fridge.

Tip: Marinating longer deepens the flavor, but even 30 minutes gives a solid result.

Step 3: Soak Skewers (If Using Bamboo)

If you’re using bamboo skewers instead of metal, soak them in water while your chicken marinates. This prevents them from burning in the air fryer.

• Fill a long dish or pan with water.
• Place the skewers in the water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
• Pat dry before threading the chicken.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

While the chicken is marinating or skewers are soaking, whip up the sauce. This part is quick but essential—the sauce ties the whole dish together.

• In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha (or more if you like it spicy)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or a sugar-free honey substitute for low-carb)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste

Tip: Taste the sauce before serving. Want more heat? Add a bit more Sriracha. Want it sweeter? A tiny drizzle of extra honey does the trick.

Set the sauce aside or refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.

Step 5: Assemble the Skewers

Once your chicken is marinated and your skewers are ready, it’s time to build them.

• Take a skewer and begin threading on the marinated chicken pieces.
• Don’t overcrowd—leave a small gap between each piece so the hot air can circulate. This helps with even cooking and browning.
• Repeat until all the chicken is skewered.

You should end up with about 8 skewers, depending on how large your chicken chunks are and how many pieces you use per stick.

Step 6: Preheat the Air Fryer

Some air fryers require preheating and some don’t. If yours does:

• Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.

Preheating helps ensure even cooking and gives the chicken that perfect crispy edge.

Step 7: Cook the Chicken Skewers

Time to get cooking!

• Place the skewers in the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. Make sure there’s a little space between each skewer. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 6–7 minutes.
• Open the basket and flip each skewer over. At this halfway point, brush each skewer with some of the Bang Bang sauce using a pastry brush or spoon.
• Cook for another 6–8 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown, slightly charred in spots, and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
• If you want a crispier finish, add an extra 1–2 minutes or turn on the broil function if your air fryer has it.

Step 8: Brush with More Sauce

Once the skewers are done, transfer them to a plate and immediately brush them with a second layer of Bang Bang sauce. This final coating adds extra flavor and locks in moisture.

Optional Garnishes:

• Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a subtle crunch.
• Add chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh finish.
• Dust with red chili flakes if you love a spicy kick.

Step 9: Let Rest Before Serving

Let the skewers sit for 2–3 minutes before serving. This brief rest time helps the juices redistribute and gives you the best possible texture.

And that’s it! From marinade to sauce to skewers, you’ve just made an incredibly flavorful, family-friendly dish in under an hour.

How to Serve

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are as flexible as they are delicious, which means there are countless ways to serve them. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or an impressive dinner spread, these skewers fit right in.

For a quick and satisfying dinner, serve the skewers over a bed of steamed white or brown rice. The sauce soaks into the grains, adding even more flavor with every bite. Add a side of sautéed green beans, steamed broccoli, or a simple cucumber salad for a balanced plate.

Want something lighter? Try serving the chicken in lettuce wraps. Crisp romaine or butter lettuce cups make the perfect low-carb base. Just lay down a few pieces of chicken, drizzle with extra sauce, and sprinkle with sesame seeds or fresh herbs. It’s refreshing, crunchy, and ideal for warmer weather meals.

You can also turn these skewers into a wrap or sandwich. Slide the cooked chicken off the skewers and tuck it into a soft pita or flatbread with some shredded cabbage or crunchy slaw. Add a little more Bang Bang sauce, maybe a squeeze of lime, and you’ve got yourself a flavor-packed handheld meal.

Another idea is to serve them family-style as part of a larger meal. Arrange the skewers on a big platter, garnish generously, and let everyone dig in. Add bowls of rice, roasted vegetables, or even some sweet potato wedges on the side for a vibrant, sharable spread.

Pairing Suggestions

To really make this meal shine, pair your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with sides and beverages that enhance the sweet, spicy, and creamy flavor profile. Here are some of my favorite ideas to round out your plate.

Starch Pairings

Start with a base that can soak up all the delicious sauce.

• Steamed jasmine rice or basmati rice is always a safe and tasty option.
• Coconut rice adds a subtle sweetness that complements the spicy kick of the sauce.
• Fried rice or vegetable stir-fried noodles also work beautifully, especially if you’re going for more of an Asian-inspired meal.

Vegetable Sides

Balance out the richness of the chicken with fresh, crisp vegetables.

• Cucumber salad with a vinegar-based dressing provides a refreshing, cooling contrast.
• Pickled carrots and radishes offer acidity and crunch.
• Grilled or air-fried broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers round out the meal with color and nutrients.

Light and Fresh Salads

If you want a lighter touch, try a salad on the side.

• A simple slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a vinegar-based or yogurt dressing adds crunch without heaviness.
• Arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette is peppery, bright, and cuts through the richness of the sauce.

Beverage Pairings

For drinks, go with options that can cool your palate and refresh.

• A sparkling lemonade or lime soda gives just the right amount of citrus zip.
• If you’re skipping sugary drinks, infused water with cucumber and mint is a soothing alternative.
• For something cozy, try a light green tea or jasmine tea served hot or iced.

Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself, these pairings make your meal feel complete, satisfying, and a little bit special.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

One of the best things about this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers recipe is how well it stores and reheats. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just saving leftovers for lunch tomorrow, you can count on these skewers to maintain their flavor and texture when stored correctly.

Storing Leftovers

Once the chicken has cooled to room temperature, transfer the skewers to an airtight container. If you’d prefer, you can slide the chicken off the skewers before storing to save space and make reheating easier.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Keep the Bang Bang sauce in a separate small container to preserve its texture and flavor.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to make a double batch and freeze some for later, you absolutely can. These chicken skewers freeze very well, especially if you take a few steps to protect them from freezer burn.

• Let the cooked chicken cool completely.
• Remove the chicken from the skewers (if using wooden skewers, they don’t freeze well).
• Spread the pieces out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze until solid, about 1 to 2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen chicken to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container and label with the date.

You can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Freeze the sauce separately in a small freezer-safe container or make it fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is quick and easy, especially if you’re using the air fryer again.

• Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F. Place the chicken in a single layer and heat for about 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain a slightly crispy texture.
• Oven: Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for about 10–12 minutes.
• Microwave: While fast, this method may slightly soften the texture. Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Reheat the Bang Bang sauce separately by letting it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or gently warming it in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. Stir well before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes have a few common pitfalls. To make sure your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers turn out perfectly every time, here are some things to watch out for.

1. Not Marinating Long Enough

While the marinade is quick, it still needs a minimum of 30 minutes to do its job. If you skip or rush this step, the chicken might taste a little flat. If you can, prep the chicken earlier in the day or the night before for deeper flavor.

2. Overcrowding the Air Fryer

This is one of the most common air fryer mistakes. If you pile in too many skewers at once or don’t leave enough space between them, the air can’t circulate properly. This results in uneven cooking and less browning. Always cook in batches if needed.

3. Cutting Uneven Chicken Pieces

Uniformity is key here. If your chicken chunks are all different sizes, some will be undercooked while others might dry out. Take the time to cut them as evenly as possible—around 1½ inches is a good size.

4. Forgetting to Flip the Skewers

You want both sides of your skewers to get that golden, slightly crisp finish. Flipping halfway through cooking ensures even browning and doneness. It also gives you a perfect opportunity to brush on that first layer of sauce.

5. Adding the Sauce Too Early

If you brush the sauce on too early during cooking, the sugars in the honey and chili sauce can burn. That leads to an overly dark, bitter coating instead of a glossy glaze. Wait until the halfway point, or even until the final minute, to brush on the sauce.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for crispy, juicy, flavor-packed skewers every single time.

Pro Tips

Want to take your Bang Bang Chicken Skewers from good to great? Here are some expert-level tips to help you level up this recipe and truly make it your own.

1. Drain Your Chicken Before Marinating

If your chicken has excess water on it (sometimes from thawing or packaging), blot it dry with a paper towel before marinating. This helps the marinade cling better and improves browning during cooking.

2. Use Full-Fat Mayonnaise for the Sauce

While light mayo works in a pinch, full-fat mayo gives the Bang Bang sauce a richer mouthfeel and creamier consistency. If you want to get extra fancy, try making your own homemade mayo—it’s easier than you think and incredibly flavorful.

3. Customize the Sauce to Your Taste

The Bang Bang sauce is super flexible. Add a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice for extra tang. Mix in crushed garlic for more bite. Or stir in a teaspoon of sesame oil to add a toasted, nutty depth.

4. Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving

Just like steak or roast chicken, these skewers benefit from a short rest before serving. Letting them sit for 2–3 minutes off the heat allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

5. Prep Ahead for Busy Nights

You can fully marinate the chicken the night before, mix the sauce ahead of time, and even pre-assemble the skewers. When it’s time for dinner, all that’s left to do is cook—and dinner’s on the table in under 20 minutes.

With just a few of these small adjustments, you’ll elevate this already-amazing dish into a total standout. Don’t be surprised if your family starts requesting it every week.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. However, chicken thighs are recommended for this recipe because they stay juicier and more tender during air frying.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild to medium heat level, mostly from the Sriracha in the sauce. You can reduce or increase the Sriracha depending on your spice tolerance. For a kid-friendly version, use less or skip it altogether.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and prepare the sauce a day ahead. Cooked skewers can be stored in the fridge and reheated later, making them great for meal prep.

What air fryer model should I use?
Any standard air fryer will work for this recipe. Basket-style and tray-style both do a great job. Just make sure not to overcrowd your air fryer to ensure even cooking.

Can I grill these instead of air frying?
Absolutely. These skewers are fantastic on the grill. Cook over medium-high heat for about 5–6 minutes per side or until the chicken is fully cooked. Brush with sauce in the last minute or two to avoid burning.

Is the Bang Bang sauce halal?
Yes, as long as you use halal-certified ingredients (like halal mayonnaise and sauces), this dish is fully halal. There’s no alcohol, pork, or non-halal meat in the recipe.

What vegetables go well with this?
Great choices include steamed broccoli, grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or a fresh cucumber salad. These all complement the creamy, spicy sauce and add color and crunch.

Can I make this keto-friendly?
Yes. Use a sugar-free honey alternative and check that your chili sauce is low in sugar. The rest of the ingredients are already low-carb.

Can I use metal skewers?
Yes. Metal skewers are reusable, don’t require soaking, and are perfect for this recipe. Just be cautious when handling them after cooking—they stay hot longer than wooden skewers.

Can I freeze the Bang Bang sauce?
It’s best to make it fresh, but you can freeze it if needed. Just note that the texture may change slightly when thawed. Stir well before using.

Conclusion & Call to Action

There’s nothing quite like finding a recipe that checks all the boxes—easy to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly versatile. These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are one of those rare gems. With tender marinated chicken, that addictive sweet-and-spicy sauce, and a quick air fryer cook time, this dish fits right into busy weeknights, weekend meal prep, or even casual entertaining.

Whether you’re serving them over rice, tucking them into wraps, or enjoying them straight off the skewer, one thing’s for sure: they always disappear fast. And that’s the sign of a recipe worth repeating.

Now that you’ve got everything you need to make these at home, it’s your turn to try it out. Grab your chicken, whisk up that sauce, and fire up the air fryer. I promise, once you take that first bite—creamy, tangy, spicy, and oh-so-satisfying—you’ll be hooked.

If you make these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, I’d love to hear how they turned out. Feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts, any variations you tried, or questions you have. And if you’re on social media, don’t forget to share a photo and tag me—I love seeing your kitchen creations!

So go ahead, get your skewers ready. A delicious, comforting, flavor-packed meal is just a few steps away. Let’s cook something amazing tonight.

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