Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

The smell of smoky grilled chicken always reminds me of summer evenings, where the grill sizzles, and everyone gathers around, eagerly waiting for that first bite. But if there’s one recipe that takes grilled chicken to the next level, it’s these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers—juicy, smoky, and coated in a creamy, spicy sauce that keeps you coming back for more.

I remember making these for a weekend cookout with friends, and they disappeared faster than anything else on the table. The combination of sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and a hint of soy sauce creates a perfect balance of heat, tang, and umami.

Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to make—just marinate, skewer, and grill. Whether you’re firing up the barbecue for a summer feast or using a grill pan indoors, these skewers will bring bold flavors to your table with minimal effort.

So, if you’re craving something spicy, savory, and just a little addictive, let’s dive into the recipe!

What Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are grilled chicken skewers coated in a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce. Inspired by the famous “bang bang” sauce, this dish brings a bold fusion of flavors with a rich, tangy marinade and a delicious dipping sauce on the side. The chicken is juicy, slightly charred, and bursting with a spicy kick, making it an irresistible appetizer or main dish.

Key Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized cubes)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)

For Serving:

• Wooden or metal skewers
• Green onions (chopped, for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Optional Dipping Sauce:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1–2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Grill or grill pan
• Tongs
• Basting brush (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Once soaked, thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and honey. This will be the flavor-packed marinade that gives the chicken its signature taste.

Reserve about ¼ cup of the marinade for basting or serving as a dipping sauce later.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken skewers in the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to let the flavors soak into the chicken.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

During the last minute of cooking, baste the skewers with the reserved marinade for extra flavor and a glossy finish.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the skewers to a serving plate. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, and serve with lime wedges.

If using the optional dipping sauce, mix the ingredients together and serve on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold, spicy, and creamy flavors—a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and tang.

Easy to make—minimal prep and quick cooking time.

Versatile—great for grilling outdoors or using a grill pan indoors.

Perfect for parties—makes an irresistible appetizer or main dish.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

❌ Skipping the skewer soak – If using wooden skewers, always soak them to prevent burning on the grill.

❌ Overcrowding the skewers – Leave small gaps between chicken pieces for even cooking.

❌ Not basting for extra flavor – Brushing the reserved marinade on the chicken adds a glossy, flavorful finish.

❌ Cooking over too high heat – Medium-high heat prevents burning while still giving a great char.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– Serve these skewers with a side of steamed jasmine rice or garlic butter noodles.
– Pair them with a crisp cucumber salad to balance the heat.
– Enjoy them alongside a refreshing mango salsa for a tropical twist.
– A chilled glass of coconut water or iced green tea makes a perfect drink pairing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers:

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Reheat on a grill pan over medium heat for a few minutes.

Microwave for 30-40 seconds, but avoid overheating to keep the chicken juicy.

FAQs

1. Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. How can I make them less spicy?
Reduce the Sriracha and add more sweet chili sauce for a milder flavor.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs add extra juiciness and work just as well.

4. What’s a good substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a lighter version.

5. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 8 hours in advance.

Tips & Tricks

– Double the dipping sauce—it’s so good, you’ll want extra!
– Use a grill pan if you don’t have an outdoor grill—it still gives great char marks.
– Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.

Recipe Variations

Lemon Herb Skewers – Swap Sriracha for lemon zest and fresh parsley for a citrusy twist.

Sweet & Spicy Skewers – Add pineapple chunks to the skewers for a sweet contrast to the spice.

Teriyaki Bang Bang Skewers – Replace soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a richer umami flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The bold flavors, the smoky char, and the creamy, spicy kick make them a go-to for any cookout or casual dinner. They’re simple to make but taste like something far more special, which is always a win.

What makes this recipe stand out is its perfect balance—spice without overwhelming heat, creaminess without being too heavy, and just the right touch of sweetness. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, leaving everyone reaching for just one more skewer.

If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful recipe to add to your rotation, this one is worth trying. Enjoy it fresh off the grill, with good company, and plenty of extra sauce on the side.