Name: Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2/3 cup Thai sweet chili sauce; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 4 teaspoons sriracha (adjust to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 10 reviews

If you are searching for a crowd-pleasing dish packed with flavor and a hint of heat, the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This easy grilled dinner perfectly balances smoky, tangy, and spicy notes with tender, juicy chicken thighs threaded onto skewers for fun and easy eating. With a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce that you can brush on or dip into, every bite is bursting with irresistible taste that will keep everyone coming back for more. It’s a guaranteed winner for family dinners, weekend cookouts, or any time you want something fresh, flavorful, and downright satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white round plate full of raw, unevenly shaped small pieces of pink chicken sits on a white marbled surface. Around the plate, there are six small containers: a small bowl with thick white sauce on the left, a small glass bowl with light yellow oil above it, a small white dish with four spices – light brown, white, red, and black – next to the chicken plate, a round glass bowl filled with shiny red chili sauce below the spice bowl, a small white square dish with a bright red sauce to the left of the chili sauce, and a small white square dish with a pale yellow liquid to the right of the chili sauce. All items are arranged neatly and evenly spaced. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple but essential, each one playing a special role in delivering the vibrant flavors, tender texture, and eye-catching color that make this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe so memorable.

2 pounds chicken thighs: Cut into bite-sized pieces for juicy, tender skewers that stay moist on the grill.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the spices stick and adds a mild, fruity richness.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smoky depth that complements the grilled chicken.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A classic savory flavor that never disappoints.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a sweet, aromatic undertone boosting the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the spice.
1/4 teaspoon pepper: A mild kick to awaken the taste buds.
1 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the iconic bang bang sauce.
2/3 cup Thai sweet chili sauce: Brings sweetness and gentle heat, essential for that signature bang bang zip.
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice: Provides a fresh tang that cuts through the richness beautifully.
4 teaspoons sriracha (or to taste): The perfect amount of spicy fire to elevate the sauce without overwhelming.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the bite-sized chicken thighs with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This step evenly coats each piece with a wonderful layer of seasoning that will infuse the chicken with flavor during grilling. The olive oil not only helps the spices adhere but also promotes a lovely sear on the grill.

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers

Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto skewers. The number of skewers you use will depend on their length and how tightly you pack the chicken, but don’t overcrowd so the heat can circulate evenly. Set these aside while you make the bang bang sauce – it’s the magic touch that brings the whole dish together.

Step 3: Mix the Bang Bang Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, fresh lime juice, and sriracha. This creamy, tangy, and spicy blend is what gives the recipe its name and signature bold taste. Reserve about half of this sauce to brush on during grilling, then cover and refrigerate the rest for serving. This way, the chicken will get double the flavor kick.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Heat your grill to medium-high and place the chicken skewers on the grates. Cook for about 15 minutes total, turning every 4 to 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and beautiful grill marks. During the last 3 to 4 minutes, generously brush the reserved bang bang sauce onto the chicken, allowing it to caramelize slightly and create a sticky, flavorful glaze.

Step 5: Serve with Extra Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through and perfectly charred, remove the skewers from the grill. Serve immediately with the remaining bang bang sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. The combination of tender chicken and that vibrant sauce is the heart and soul of this Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe

The image shows three metal skewers with grilled chicken pieces placed closely on a bed of white rice in a white plate. The chicken has a golden-brown color with charred spots, coated in a light creamy sauce and sprinkled with small green herbs. The rice beneath is fluffy with some scattered green herbs adding a touch of color. The focus is on the chicken pieces in the front with a soft blurred background. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can take this dish from delicious to dazzling. Try sprinkling chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or finely chopped cilantro on top. These add not only a pop of color but also complementary fresh herbal notes and a light crunch that balance the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pair wonderfully with light, refreshing sides. A crisp cucumber salad or a zesty Asian slaw provides perfect contrast, while steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice help soak up that amazing bang bang sauce. For a heartier meal, grilled vegetables or roasted sweet potatoes work like a charm.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve the skewers on a large platter layered with fresh lettuce leaves or shredded cabbage to catch any drips. You can also skewer them alongside colorful veggies like bell peppers and red onions for an eye-catching visual and added flavor variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the extra bang bang sauce separate to maintain its fresh, creamy texture so you can drizzle or dip as needed when reheating.

Freezing

If you want to plan ahead, these skewers freeze beautifully. Arrange cooked, cooled skewers in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy this tasty recipe on a busy night.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through, or use a quick sauté in a hot pan. Avoid the microwave to keep the chicken juicy and prevent the sauce from splitting. Don’t forget to add a splash more bang bang sauce after warming for that perfect flavor boost.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but they tend to dry out faster when grilled. Keep a close eye on the cooking time to prevent overcooking, and consider marinating a bit longer for extra moisture.

Do I have to use skewers?

Skewers are ideal for this recipe to get that grilled flavor and easy serving. However, you can also cook the chicken pieces directly on the grill or in a grill pan. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to avoid burning.

Is the bang bang sauce spicy?

The sauce has a nice kick from the sriracha and Thai sweet chili sauce but balances heat with sweetness and creaminess. You can adjust the amount of sriracha depending on how spicy you like it, making it great for all heat tolerance levels.

Can I make the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe indoors?

Definitely! You can use a stove top grill pan or even the air fryer if your skewers fit. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and temperature to get that lovely char and juicy interior.

What can I serve this recipe with for a complete meal?

This dish pairs perfectly with fresh salads, steamed rice, or grilled veggies. Adding a crunchy slaw or cucumber salad adds refreshing texture and balances the indulgent sauce beautifully for a well-rounded dinner.

Final Thoughts

This Bang Bang Chicken Skewers Recipe is a true game changer for casual dinners and special occasions alike. Its perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors is addictive, and the simplicity of the ingredients and steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how fast it becomes a favorite in your home—grab those skewers and get grilling!