Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are an irresistible combination of spicy heat, creamy sauce, and perfectly grilled chicken. The sweet chili and sriracha blend together with mayo and lime to create a sauce that clings to the chicken, caramelizing on the grill for a flavor explosion in every bite.

This dish is ideal for backyard barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or meal prep for the week. Served on skewers, it’s fun to eat, mess-free, and always a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with jasmine rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad to complete the meal and enjoy a sweet-and-spicy Asian-inspired feast right at home.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1½ pounds chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce

• 2 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust to taste)

• 2 teaspoons honey

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• Fresh chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)

• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Directions:

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

2. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, and minced garlic until smooth.

3. Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper, then toss them in half of the prepared sauce. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly brush with vegetable oil.

5. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers.

6. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.

7. Baste with reserved sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.

8. Remove from grill, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, and serve hot with remaining sauce on the side.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

What Are Bang Bang Chicken Skewers?

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a bold and flavorful dish inspired by a combination of Southeast Asian flavors and modern grilling techniques. They feature tender, juicy chunks of chicken marinated in a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce, grilled to perfection, and often served with a drizzle of the signature “bang bang” sauce. This dish has become increasingly popular not just for its unforgettable flavor, but also for how easy and accessible it is to make at home.

Originally, the term “bang bang” referred to a traditional Chinese street food where the chicken was pounded with a stick to tenderize it. However, the Westernized version we know today has evolved into a creamy, spicy concoction based on mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. It’s not only visually appealing with a rich glaze and slight charring from the grill, but also addictive in flavor—sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy all at once.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

The modern iteration of Bang Bang Chicken gained popularity in North American kitchens and restaurants, particularly in fast-casual and Asian-fusion establishments. It merges the creamy-spicy balance found in sauces like spicy mayo with a Thai- or Chinese-inspired base of chili and garlic. The result is a bold and addictive sauce that makes any protein taste indulgent, with chicken being the most common and versatile pairing.

While this dish draws from several culinary traditions, it is more of a fusion creation than an authentic representation of any one culture. It encapsulates the growing desire among home cooks and chefs alike to blend comfort food with global flavor profiles. Bang Bang Chicken Skewers allow for creativity while also delivering familiar tastes that appeal to a wide audience.

Flavor Profile and Texture

One of the main attractions of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is their complex flavor profile. The sauce is the star of the show—creamy from the mayo, tangy from lime juice, sweet from chili sauce, and spicy from sriracha. This perfect balance of flavors makes it suitable for both spice lovers and those who prefer mild heat.

When grilled properly, the chicken pieces remain juicy and tender inside, while developing a beautifully charred, smoky exterior. The sauce caramelizes slightly on the grill, adding a deeper richness and sticky texture that clings to each bite. Every skewer delivers layers of taste—from the initial creamy tang to the lingering heat of chili and garlic.

Why Skewers Make a Difference

Skewering the chicken offers several advantages. First, it ensures even cooking, as the pieces are spaced apart and exposed to direct heat on all sides. This prevents overcooking and guarantees juicy, uniform bites. Second, skewers make for an easy serving option, perfect for gatherings, parties, or weeknight dinners.

There’s also a visual appeal—grilled skewers are always eye-catching. The charred edges of the chicken, glistening with sauce, instantly create appetite appeal. They’re also mess-free and portion-controlled, making them suitable for serving at outdoor events, tailgates, or picnics.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

To get the most out of this dish, there are several expert tips to keep in mind:

• Marinate for Flavor: While the sauce is already flavorful, marinating the chicken in half of it enhances the depth of taste. Aim for at least 30 minutes, though up to 2 hours is ideal.

• Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the skewers on it. This helps create a nice sear while locking in moisture.

• Use Uniform Pieces: Cut chicken into evenly sized cubes to ensure all pieces cook at the same rate.

• Reserve Sauce Wisely: Never reuse marinade that has touched raw chicken. Always set aside a clean portion for basting or dipping.

• Don’t Overcook: Chicken breast can dry out quickly. Keep a close eye and remove once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and can be served in many creative ways:

• With Rice or Noodles: Jasmine rice, coconut rice, or vermicelli noodles are excellent choices to soak up the flavorful sauce.

• With Vegetables: Try serving with grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or a fresh cucumber salad to balance the heat.

• As Tacos: Remove the chicken from skewers and serve in small tortillas with slaw and extra sauce for a street-food twist.

• On a Platter: These skewers make fantastic appetizers or part of a mixed grill platter alongside shrimp, steak, or grilled pineapple.

• Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps for a lighter version that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Why This Recipe is Great for Entertaining

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for BBQs, potlucks, family dinners, or game day snacks. They’re easy to make in large batches, visually stunning, and bold in flavor—traits that make them a hit at any gathering.

Their handheld format means minimal mess and fuss, and the flavor is so universally loved that even picky eaters tend to devour them. You can even make them ahead of time and reheat with a quick sear on a hot pan or grill.

For an elevated presentation, sprinkle with chopped scallions, cilantro, or sesame seeds. Serve with toothpicks or bamboo picks for a fancy appetizer, or pile them onto a platter with lime wedges for a rustic, shareable meal.

Customizations and Dietary Swaps

Another reason this recipe stands out is how easily it can be customized:

• Protein Alternatives: Swap chicken for shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for different textures or to make it pescatarian/vegetarian.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the marinade.

• Dairy-Free: Most mayonnaise is dairy-free, but double-check the label or use an avocado-based or vegan mayo.

• Less Spicy: Reduce or omit the sriracha for a milder version, or substitute with ketchup and a pinch of paprika for a smoky twist.

These options make the recipe adaptable to nearly any dietary preference or lifestyle without compromising the integrity of the original dish.

The Secret to the Sauce

The magic of Bang Bang Chicken lies in its sauce. The combination of creaminess, heat, and sweetness creates a luxurious glaze that enhances the grilled meat beautifully. It’s not just a sauce—it’s a flavor experience.

You can also use the sauce for more than just chicken. Try drizzling it over fried shrimp, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for sweet potato fries. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, finding new uses each time.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers bring together bold Asian-inspired flavors with the satisfaction of grilled comfort food. This dish is easy enough for beginners yet sophisticated enough to serve at special events. It hits all the right notes: juicy grilled meat, a mouthwatering sauce, and a presentation that’s both playful and impressive.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or a large crowd, these skewers are sure to steal the show. The balance of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors, combined with the irresistible texture of grilled chicken, makes this a recipe worth repeating.

In a world of complicated recipes and hard-to-find ingredients, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a refreshing reminder that simple, bold, and well-balanced flavors are all you need for a memorable meal.