The Perfect Blend of Heat and Sweet in Every Bite
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers take plain chicken breast and push it somewhere way more interesting. Thin strips are threaded onto skewers, quickly cooked over high heat, then finished with a bold, spicy‑sweet bang‑bang sauce, creamy from mayo, bright with lime, and sriracha hot enough to keep things lively. The glaze sticks to every charred edge, so each bite hits with layered flavor instead of background heat.
I pulled these together once for a casual cookout, and they were gone before anything else left the grill. Since then, they’ve become my reliable move for nights when I want dinner to feel fun but don’t have time for complicated prep. Start to finish: about 35 minutes. Equipment: one bowl, one hot surface. Result: empty platter, happy people, and a recipe you’ll put on repeat.
Why You’ll Love These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Last summer, I served these skewers at an impromptu backyard gathering, and my neighbor, who claims to dislike spicy food, asked for the recipe before the evening ended. That’s the magic of bang bang sauce; it delivers warmth rather than overwhelming heat, making it accessible for almost everyone at your table.
You’ll love these skewers because:
- Quick and effortless: From prep to plate in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
- Flavor-packed: The signature bang bang sauce offers the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy notes
- Crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults alike devour these, making them perfect for family dinners and entertaining
- Versatile: Works beautifully on the grill, in the oven, or even on a stovetop grill pan
- Make-ahead friendly: Prep the chicken and sauce separately up to a day ahead for even faster assembly
KEY INGREDIENTS BREAKDOWN
Chicken breast: The lean protein base provides a neutral canvas that absorbs flavors beautifully. Make sure to cut pieces uniformly (about 1-inch cubes) to ensure even cooking. For even juicier results, try chicken thighs instead.
Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the bang bang sauce. Use full-fat mayo for the richest texture, though light mayo works in a pinch if you’re watching calories.
Sweet chili sauce: This Thai-inspired condiment adds complexity with its perfect blend of sweetness and mild heat. Look for it in the international aisle of your grocery store.
Sriracha: The star heat element that gives bang bang sauce its signature kick. Adjust the amount to your spice preference, start with less if you’re heat-sensitive.
Honey: Balances the heat with natural sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize slightly when exposed to heat. Local honey adds a subtle depth of flavor.
Lime juice: The acid component that brightens the entire dish and cuts through the richness of the mayo. Fresh is always best here.
VARIATIONS + SUBSTITUTIONS
Make it gluten-free: Check your sweet chili sauce and sriracha labels, as some brands may contain gluten. Most are naturally gluten-free.
Lower-calorie option: Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess.
Protein swaps: While chicken is traditional, this sauce works beautifully with:
- Shrimp (reduce cooking time to 2-3 minutes per side)
- Firm tofu (press well and marinate for 30 minutes before skewering)
- Pork tenderloin (cut into 1-inch cubes)
Flavor twists:
- Add 1 teaspoon of grated ginger to the sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor profile
- Mix in 1 tablespoon of smooth peanut butter for a Thai-inspired variation
- Substitute the lime juice with rice vinegar for a different tang
Heat adjustments: Control the spice level by adjusting the sriracha, use just 1 teaspoon for mild heat or up to 2 tablespoons for serious spice lovers.
STEP BY STEP SUMMARY INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start with dry chicken, pat the pieces with paper towels before tossing with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This ensures better browning and helps seasonings adhere properly to the surface.
Step 2: Skewer with strategy
When threading chicken onto skewers, leave small spaces between each piece. This allows heat to circulate, creating more caramelized edges. If using wooden skewers, don’t skip soaking them for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 3: Cook to perfection
Whether grilling or baking, the key is to cook just until done (165°F internal temperature) without overcooking. Remember that smaller pieces cook faster, start checking at the 12-minute mark. For the best charred edges, use the broiler for the final 2 minutes of baking.
Step 4: Sauce magic
Whisk the sauce ingredients until completely smooth. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Finishing touches
Apply the sauce while the chicken is still hot for better absorption. Reserve some sauce for dipping at the table, trust me, everyone will want extra.
A FEW HELPFUL TIPS
- Temperature matters: Bring chicken to room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for more even results
- Don’t rush: Allow the skewers to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking, this helps the juices redistribute
- Sauce thickness: If your sauce is too thick, add a teaspoon of water at a time until you reach the desired consistency
- Multi-task: Make the sauce while the chicken cooks to streamline your prep time
- Check for doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking
THE SECRET TO PERFECT BANG BANG SAUCE
Unlike many online recipes that simply combine the ingredients, the key to exceptional bang bang sauce is balancing and layering flavors. Start by mixing just the mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce, then gradually incorporate sriracha, honey, and finally lime juice, tasting as you go. This method allows you to adjust each element to create your perfect balance of creamy, sweet, spicy, and tangy.
For an elevated version, try warming the sauce slightly (not cooking, just taking the chill off) before serving. This enhances the aromatic qualities and helps it cling better to the chicken.
HOW TO ACHIEVE RESTAURANT-QUALITY CHAR
The distinctive charred edges make these skewers truly special. For oven cooking, position your rack 6 inches from the broiler and finish with a quick broil. When grilling, allow some pieces to get slightly darker than others for texture contrast.
Don’t be afraid of a little char, those caramelized bits are flavor gold mines that balance perfectly with the creamy sauce.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS + PAIRINGS
These vibrant skewers pair beautifully with:
- Coconut rice: The subtle sweetness complements the spicy sauce perfectly
- Cucumber salad: The cool crispness provides refreshing contrast to the heat
- Grilled vegetables: Thread peppers, zucchini, and red onions on separate skewers for a complete meal
- Bibb lettuce cups: Create a fun interactive meal by serving the skewers with lettuce leaves for wrapping
For a complete Asian-inspired spread, serve alongside spring rolls or a simple miso soup. For drinks, a crisp lager beer or slightly sweet Riesling balances the heat beautifully.
STORAGE, REHEATING, AND FREEZING TIPS
Refrigerator storage: Store leftover cooked skewers in an airtight container, separate from sauce, for up to 3 days.
Reheating best practices:
- Microwave: 30-45 seconds at 70% power, with a damp paper towel over the top to prevent drying
- Oven: 300°F for 7-8 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet
- Avoid reheating with sauce already applied, as it may separate or curdle
Freezing guidelines:
- Uncooked marinated chicken (without sauce) can be frozen on or off skewers for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator before cooking
- The sauce doesn’t freeze well due to mayonnaise, so make fresh when needed
Make-ahead options: Prepare chicken on skewers and sauce separately up to 24 hours ahead, storing covered in the refrigerator.
FAQ
Can I make these skewers without a grill?
Absolutely! Bake them on a sheet pan at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. For a similar char, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
How spicy are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?
The recipe as written provides a moderate heat that most people enjoy. The mayo and honey balance the sriracha beautifully. Adjust the sriracha amount based on your preference, start with half the amount if you’re sensitive to spice.
Can I prepare these ahead for a party?
Yes! Thread the chicken onto skewers and prepare the sauce up to a day ahead. Store separately in the refrigerator, then cook and assemble just before serving. The sauce actually improves after sitting for several hours.
What’s the best way to prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using. For extra protection, wrap exposed ends with aluminum foil when grilling or broiling.
Enjoying These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
These skewers don’t just feed a crowd, they spark those little reactions that make home cooking feel worth it. The kind where someone pauses mid-bite and says, “Wait… what is this sauce?” Whether you’re handing out skewers straight off the grill or plating them up on a quiet Tuesday, they turn simple chicken into something unexpected. No fuss, no fancy ingredients, just bold, punchy flavor that gets people talking (and reaching for seconds).
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We’d love to see your delicious creation.
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers: Sweet, Spicy, and Irresistibly Easy
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers take plain chicken breast and push it somewhere way more interesting. Thin strips are threaded onto skewers, quickly cooked over high heat, then finished with a bold, spicy‑sweet bang‑bang sauce, creamy from mayo, bright with lime, and sriracha hot enough to keep things lively.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1‑inch cubes
2 tablespoons extra‑virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 tablespoon pure honey
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl until evenly coated.
- Thread the seasoned chicken onto skewers.
- Grill or bake the skewers for 15–20 minutes, turning them now and then, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.
- Stir together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth.
- Brush the sauce over the hot skewers or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, if you like, and serve right away.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grill
- Cuisine: American
Share Your Experience and Customizations
Don’t forget to leave a rating and a comment below! We’d love to hear how it turned out for you. If you made any tweaks or added your own spin, let us know how it went, we’re all about seeing how y’all make it your own!
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you might also LIKE TO check out
- USDA – Food Safety and Inspection
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – Nutrition Source
- America’s Test Kitchen – Science of Cooking Section
