Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Last week, my daughter turned seven and we celebrated with a small backyard dinner. She had one special request: chicken skewers. Nothing fancy, she said—just the ones with “that yummy sauce.” I knew right away what she meant: bang bang chicken skewers. Smoky, tender, spicy-sweet, and coated in a glossy sauce that makes you want to lick your fingers.

That night, as we threaded juicy chicken and colorful veggies onto skewers, she told me about her new gymnastics bar and showed me flips between cutting bell peppers. It was messy and loud and just right. This recipe isn’t only delicious, it’s a snapshot of moments like that.

Bang bang chicken skewers are all about big flavor and simple joy. They take humble pantry ingredients and turn them into something festive, fast, and full of life. Whether you’re cooking indoors or on the grill, they bring brightness to the table.

And the best part? They’re super customizable. Make them spicy, keep them mild, go full veggie—they always shine. Here’s how I make them at home.

Short Description

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are juicy, marinated chicken thighs and veggies grilled or broiled until charred, then served with a spicy-sweet mayo-based bang bang sauce. A fun, fast, and flavor-packed weeknight meal.

Ingredients

For the Skewers

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 yellow onion, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• Optional: zucchini, eggplant, or yellow squash

For the Marinade

• 1 tbsp garlic and herb seasoning
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1–2 garlic cloves, grated
• 3 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1–2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tsp chili oil or chili crunch (optional)
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp Sriracha or red pepper flakes (to taste)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt, to taste

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• 3 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1–2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tsp chili oil or Sriracha (optional)
• Pinch of garlic and herb seasoning or granulated garlic
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: 1 tsp honey for extra sweetness

Suggested Substitutions

• For a vegan version: use tofu and vegan mayo
• For low-sodium: reduce added salt and use low-sodium seasonings
• For gluten-free: ensure your chili sauce and mayo are gluten-free

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Cutting board (plastic for meat)
• Sharp knife
• Metal or bamboo skewers
• Oven with broiler or grill (indoor or outdoor)
• Tongs
• Small bowl and spoon for sauce

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the veggies
Cut the onion and bell pepper into chunks about the same size as the chicken. If using zucchini or squash, slice into thick coins.

Step 2: Cut and season the chicken
Trim the chicken thighs and cut into bite-sized chunks. Place in a large bowl with the chopped vegetables.

Step 3: Make the marinade
Add garlic and herb seasoning, paprika, grated garlic, mayo, sweet chili sauce, chili oil, brown sugar, Sriracha, olive oil, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Toss everything until well coated.

Step 4: Skewer the chicken and veggies
Thread chicken and veggies onto skewers, alternating pieces. Leave a little space between for even cooking.

Step 5: Cook the skewers
Preheat the broiler to 500°F. Place skewers on a baking rack in the center of the oven. Broil for 6–9 minutes per side until charred and cooked through. Or use an outdoor grill or air fryer (450°F for about 12–14 minutes total).

Step 6: Make the bang bang sauce
Mix mayo, sweet chili sauce, chili oil or Sriracha, seasoning, and salt in a small bowl. Add honey if you like it sweeter.

Step 7: Finish and serve
Brush the sauce on the hot skewers or serve on the side for dipping. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or scallions if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy and flavorful
• Great for grilling or oven broiling
• Kid-approved and easy to customize
• Works well for meal prep or gatherings
• Bold, sweet-spicy bang bang sauce makes it irresistible

Helpful Tips and Cooking Notes

Don’t overcrowd the skewers—this helps everything cook more evenly without steaming. Metal skewers conduct heat and cook the chicken from the inside out. Always use a plastic cutting board for raw meat to prevent bacteria from seeping into wood grain.

Broiling gives a great charred finish, but air frying is a convenient, clean option. You can prep the skewers up to a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until ready to cook.

Nutritional Benefits & Fun Facts

Chicken thighs are a great source of protein and iron. Mayo-based marinades keep meat juicy thanks to the fat content. Sweet chili sauce adds antioxidants from red chili and garlic.

Final Dish & Serving Suggestions

The skewers come out sizzling, with deep golden edges and caramelized bits. The sauce clings to the warm chicken like a glaze. Each bite is tender, juicy, and bursting with bold flavor.

Serve with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or a pile of pickled veggies. It’s fun food, but nourishing too—great for a weeknight or weekend BBQ.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes or use an air fryer at 375°F for 4–6 minutes for best texture.

Avoid microwaving as it softens the char and can make the chicken rubbery. Keep sauce stored separately in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but watch the cooking time. Chicken breast cooks faster and dries out more easily.

2. Do I have to use mayo in the marinade?
It’s optional, but recommended. Mayo keeps the chicken juicy and adds richness.

3. Can I cook these in the air fryer?
Yes. Air fry at 450°F for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. What veggies go well on skewers?
Peppers, onions, zucchini, yellow squash, and eggplant all work great.

5. Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick. You can adjust by adding more or less chili oil or Sriracha.

Final Thoughts

Bang bang chicken skewers are one of those meals that make the whole house smell amazing. They’re easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. And watching your kid grin as they dip their skewer into sauce? That’s dinner done right.

If you make these, tag me or share a pic. I love seeing what you’re cooking. Happy skewering!