Is there anything more nostalgic than the aroma of grilled chicken wafting through the air on a summer evening? For me, the answer is a resounding “no.” Growing up, summer gatherings with my family were always filled with laughter, sunshine, and, of course, mouthwatering food. One of my fondest memories is of those backyard BBQs where my father, the undisputed grill master, would whip up a variety of grilled delights. But it was the chicken skewers, lovingly marinated and grilled to perfection, that always stole the show. The smell of sizzling meat and tangy sauces was a sure sign of good times and great company.
Inspired by those treasured moments, I created these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers—a recipe that combines my childhood love for grilled chicken with a touch of spice and a lot of flavor. The idea came to me during a recent trip to Thailand, where I fell in love with the vibrant street food scene. Among the many culinary delights I experienced, it was the sweet and spicy flavor combinations that left a lasting impression. I knew I wanted to bring that essence back home, and thus, these skewers were born.
The essence of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a dish that’s perfect for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings. The key is in the marinade and sauce—a harmonious blend of garlic, cayenne pepper, sweet Thai chili sauce, and a splash of lime juice. This combination not only infuses the chicken with rich flavors but also creates a tantalizing glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill or in the air fryer.
Whether you’re using a grill or an air fryer, these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are incredibly easy to prepare. The marinade is straightforward, and the sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste. I particularly love how the sweet honey and spicy Sriracha blend together to create a balanced sauce that’s both rich and fiery. It’s a dish that invites you to savor each bite, with the smoky char from the grill adding an extra layer of deliciousness.
So, next time you’re craving something that’s both comforting and exciting, try these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. They’re a delightful way to bring a taste of adventure into your kitchen while celebrating the joys of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!
Making Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
- 1½-2 lbs boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 Tbsp hot honey
- ⅔ cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1 cup mayonnaise (adjust as needed)
- ¼ cup Sriracha (adjust for heat)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- ½ tsp salt
Directions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or prepare your air fryer.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Thread the seasoned chicken onto skewers, packing them about halfway to three-quarters full. Set them aside.
- For the sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice in a medium bowl until smooth. This will make around 1.5 cups of bang bang sauce.
- Reserve half of the sauce for later use. Use the remaining sauce to coat the chicken skewers, applying it generously between the pieces.
- Grilling: Grill the skewers for 15-20 minutes, turning them frequently. Cook until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F, basting with the sauce as they cook to achieve a caramelized finish.
- Air Fryer: Place the skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. After cooking, drizzle or brush the skewers with the reserved sauce and hot honey if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cooking Tips
For an extra kick, adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning for uniform flavor. For a crispier texture, consider grilling on high heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the skewers with a side of jasmine rice or a fresh salad. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for added freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a milder sauce, use less cayenne pepper and Sriracha. Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, pair the skewers with grilled vegetables for a complete meal. During the colder months, serve with a warm, hearty side dish like roasted potatoes.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains mayonnaise, which includes eggs, and may not be suitable for individuals with egg allergies. Substitute with a vegan mayo if needed.
FAQ:
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bang bang sauce up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.
What can I serve with these chicken skewers?
These skewers pair well with jasmine rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables. Garnish with cilantro and lime for added flavor.
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts or drumsticks, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Make sure to oil the grill grates before placing the chicken skewers on them. You can also lightly oil the chicken to help with sticking.
Can I freeze the cooked skewers?
Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken skewers. Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
- 1½-2 lbs boneless chicken thighs cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 Tbsp hot honey
- ⅔ cup sweet Thai chili sauce
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1 cup mayonnaise more if needed
- ¼ cup Sriracha adjust for heat
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, cayenne, and salt, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated.
- Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto skewers, filling them about halfway to three-quarters full. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet Thai chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. This mixture will yield about 1.5 cups of bang bang sauce.
- Divide the sauce, setting half aside for serving later. Use the remaining sauce to coat the chicken skewers, brushing generously between the pieces.
Grilling method:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 15-20 minutes, turning them frequently until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Brush the skewers with the sauce as they cook, ensuring even caramelization.
Air Fryer method:
- Place the skewers in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the skewers to a plate, and drizzle or brush them with the reserved bang bang sauce and hot honey if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
