Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

The sweet and spicy flavor combo of these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is absolutely irresistible. Marinated in paprika, garlic, and olive oil, then air-fried to juicy perfection, the chicken is generously brushed with a creamy bang bang sauce that blends mayo, sweet chili, and hot sauce. Whether you’re watching your carbs or just want a bold and tasty meal, these skewers deliver every time. Perfect for entertaining, weeknight dinners, or even backyard BBQs, this dish brings both convenience and flavor. You can air-fry them, bake them in the oven, or toss them on the grill—versatility at its finest. Serve with cauliflower mash, coleslaw, or roasted veggies to round out the meal.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Skewers:

1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Wooden or metal skewers

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

1 cup full-fat mayonnaise
½ cup sweet chili sauce (use sugar-free if keto)
1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp honey (or sugar-free alternative)
1 tsp salt

Directions:

In a bowl, mix chicken cubes with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Meanwhile, prepare the Bang Bang sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, hot sauce, honey, and salt in a separate bowl. Set aside.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each for even cooking.
Generously brush each skewer with some of the Bang Bang sauce.
Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
After cooking, brush again with sauce and garnish with chopped parsley, chili flakes, or sesame seeds.
Serve hot with a side of extra sauce for dipping.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 456 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Irresistible Allure of Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

If you’re on the hunt for a quick, easy, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any time of year, look no further than Bang Bang Chicken Skewers. This vibrant, mouthwatering recipe is beloved for its perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and spicy flavors — and the fact that it comes together in under 30 minutes makes it an absolute win for busy weeknights, backyard BBQs, or casual entertaining.

Whether you’re living a low-carb lifestyle or simply want something new and exciting, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

What Makes Bang Bang Chicken Skewers So Special?

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a clever spin on the classic Bang Bang Chicken—a dish known for its creamy, spicy sauce originally popularized by Asian-American fusion restaurants. Traditionally served with battered chicken or shrimp, this skewer version strips down the carbs while keeping every ounce of flavor.

Threaded onto skewers and air-fried until juicy and crisped around the edges, each piece of chicken is smothered in a bold and creamy Bang Bang sauce made from mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, a kick of hot sauce, and a hint of honey. The result? A low-effort, high-reward dish that feels gourmet without the stress.

Perfect for Low-Carb and Keto Diets

One of the biggest benefits of this recipe is how keto-friendly and low-carb it is—without sacrificing flavor. Unlike many chicken skewer recipes that rely on sugary marinades or heavy sauces, this one uses a smart blend of ingredients that cater to low-carb eaters. And with easy swaps like sugar-free sweet chili sauce and keto-friendly honey alternatives, it’s easy to stick to your health goals while still enjoying every bite.

Each serving clocks in at just 6g of net carbs, making it an excellent option for anyone following a keto or paleo diet. It’s also gluten-free and high in healthy fats and protein, so it keeps you feeling full and satisfied.

A Great Alternative to Takeout or Restaurant Appetizers

Craving something bold and saucy without the guilt? These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers beat takeout any day. They deliver the same intense flavors of your favorite Asian-fusion appetizers but with fewer calories, no processed oils, and minimal sugar.

They’re a great choice when you want that “cheat day” feeling without actually cheating. The air fryer method gives you crispy, caramelized chicken pieces that mimic deep-fried texture—minus the grease and mess.

Customizable to Fit Any Preference

This recipe is incredibly flexible, which makes it easy to adapt to your tastes or dietary needs:

Meat swaps: Use chicken breast, turkey, or even shrimp for different protein options.
Veggie lovers: Add bell peppers, red onions, or zucchini chunks to the skewers for a more colorful and nutritious presentation.
Spice level: Dial the heat up or down by adjusting the hot sauce. Add crushed red pepper or a splash of Sriracha for extra fire.
Dairy-free: The sauce is naturally dairy-free, and if you choose a dairy-free mayo, it’s suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

Fast, Foolproof, and Family-Friendly

You don’t need to be a professional chef to master this dish. With a handful of pantry staples and less than 30 minutes of cook time, it’s one of the easiest crowd-pleasers you’ll ever make. The instructions are straightforward, and the air fryer does most of the heavy lifting.

Even kids will love these skewers—thanks to the mildly sweet and creamy sauce that coats every juicy piece. They’re ideal for family dinners, lunchbox leftovers, or even as a high-protein snack.

How Air Frying Makes It Better

Air frying isn’t just a trend—it’s a game changer for recipes like these. Here’s why air frying works so well for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers:

Quick cooking time: You can have a full batch ready in about 15 minutes.
Even browning: The circulating heat ensures crispy edges while keeping the inside juicy.
No added oil: You only need a tiny bit of oil in the marinade, keeping the recipe lighter.
No oven preheating: Just pop them into the air fryer, and you’re good to go.

Don’t have an air fryer? No worries! These skewers can be baked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes or grilled outdoors for extra smoky flavor.

The Star of the Show: Bang Bang Sauce

Let’s talk about the magic of Bang Bang Sauce—the creamy, spicy, sweet dressing that brings this whole dish to life. The ingredients may be simple, but the flavor profile is anything but. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Mayonnaise: Creates a smooth, rich base. Full-fat versions yield the best texture and flavor.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds mild heat and sweetness. Opt for sugar-free versions for low-carb diets.
Hot Sauce (Sriracha): Brings that signature kick. Use more or less based on your spice tolerance.
Honey (or substitute): Rounds everything out with natural sweetness.
Salt: Balances the flavors and brings everything together.

You can double the sauce and keep it in your fridge—it’s perfect for drizzling over veggies, using as a dip, or dressing a crunchy coleslaw.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Skewers

To get the most out of this recipe, here are a few helpful tips:

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning in the air fryer or oven.
Cut chicken evenly into 1-inch cubes to ensure uniform cooking.
Marinate for at least 30 minutes to deepen the flavor.
Leave space between pieces on the skewers so hot air can circulate and cook evenly.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).

Ideal Pairings and Serving Ideas

These skewers are super versatile when it comes to side dishes. Here are some ideas to make it a complete meal:

Cauliflower mash – A creamy, low-carb side that balances out the bold flavors.
Cucumber salad – Cool and refreshing with a vinegar tang to contrast the heat.
Lettuce wraps – Turn this into a low-carb wrap by adding the chicken to crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves.
Zucchini noodles or coleslaw – Add some crunch and color to your plate.

They also pair beautifully with steamed rice or grilled flatbread if you’re not counting carbs.

Perfect for Parties, Meal Prep, and More

Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding a crowd, or just meal prepping for the week, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a smart choice. They store well in the fridge for 2–3 days and reheat easily in the oven or air fryer.

Make a double batch and store half for lunches or quick dinners later in the week. The sauce will keep in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days—perfect for a flavor boost anytime.

Why This Bang Bang Chicken Recipe Stands Out

There are plenty of Bang Bang Chicken recipes out there, but this one stands out because:

It’s fast (ready in under 30 minutes)
It’s healthy (low in carbs, high in protein)
It’s flexible (can be made spicy or mild, baked or air fried)
It’s delicious (sweet, spicy, creamy, and utterly satisfying)

When you’re looking for a meal that’s exciting, customizable, and effortlessly impressive, Bang Bang Chicken Skewers should be at the top of your list.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers aren’t just another chicken dish—they’re an experience. They deliver big flavor in a short amount of time, cater to a wide range of diets, and are adaptable for nearly any occasion. Plus, with their bold color and saucy appeal, they look just as good as they taste. This recipe is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or complicated. It can be delicious, exciting, and even a little addictive. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.