Save These Bang Bang chicken skewers combine juicy grilled chicken with a creamy, spicy sauce that delivers incredible flavor in every bite. The chicken is marinated in garlic and soy sauce, then grilled to perfection before being coated in the signature Bang Bang sauce made with mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey. The entire dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
The sauce strikes the perfect balance between creamy and spicy, while the grilled chicken develops a delicious char that complements the rich flavors. Top with sesame seeds, fresh scallions, and cilantro for added texture and freshness.
The aroma of sweet chili and sriracha hitting the grill always transports me back to a backyard gathering where my friend accidentally doubled the spice level. Everyone reached for their drinks simultaneously, then went back for seconds.
I made these for a summer potluck last year and watched them disappear in minutes. My neighbor asked for the recipe before she even finished her first skewer.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts or thighs: Thighs stay juicier on the grill but both work beautifully cut into even cubes
- Vegetable oil: Helps the seasoning stick and prevents sticking on the grates
- Garlic powder: Provides a subtle background note without burning like fresh garlic might
- Soy sauce: Use gluten free if needed, this adds depth and umami to the meat
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base that tames the heat and creates that luscious coating
- Sweet chili sauce: The perfect bridge between sweet and spicy that makes this sauce addictive
- Sriracha: Adjust this up or down depending on your spice tolerance
- Honey: Balances the heat and helps the sauce cling to the chicken
- Rice vinegar: Cuts through the richness and brightens the whole dish
- Sesame seeds and scallions: These are not just garnish, they add texture and fresh contrast
Instructions
- Prep the chicken:
- Toss your cubes in a bowl with oil, garlic powder, soy sauce, pepper and salt until evenly coated. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes while you soak wooden skewers.
- Thread the skewers:
- Pierce each piece through the center and thread them snugly so they cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Heat the grill:
- Get your grill or grill pan nice and hot over medium high heat until you can only hold your hand there briefly.
- Grill to perfection:
- Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning every few minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and has those gorgeous charred edges.
- Whisk the sauce:
- While the chicken grills, stir together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey and rice vinegar until smooth and creamy.
- Bring it all together:
- Brush the sauce generously over the hot skewers or drizzle it over the top for a dramatic finish.
- Finish and serve:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds, scallions and cilantro, then serve immediately while the sauce is still warm and clinging to every bite.
Save My daughter now requests these for her birthday dinner every year. Something about eating food off a stick makes everything taste better.
Make Ahead Magic
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep the sauce separate in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors develop deeper.
Sauce Secrets
The sauce tastes even better if you make it a few hours ahead and let it sit. The flavors meld together into something incredibly cohesive.
Perfect Pairings
Serve these with something cool and crisp to balance the rich sauce. A simple cucumber salad or jasmine rice works beautifully.
- Try lettuce wraps for a low carb option that lets the chicken shine
- Extra lime wedges on the side brighten every bite
- Keep napkins nearby because this sauce is worth the mess
Save Watch these become the most requested dish at every gathering you bring them to.
Recipe FAQs
- → What does Bang Bang sauce taste like?
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Bang Bang sauce features a creamy base with sweet and spicy elements. The mayonnaise provides richness, while sweet chili sauce and honey add sweetness. Sriracha brings the heat, and rice vinegar balances everything with a touch of acidity.
- → Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?
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Yes, you can bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a slight char similar to grilling.
- → How spicy are these chicken skewers?
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The spice level is moderate and adjustable. The sriracha provides a gentle kick that most people enjoy. You can reduce the amount for milder flavor or increase it for more heat.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
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Absolutely! The Bang Bang sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It may thicken slightly when cold, so let it come to room temperature before serving.
- → What should I serve with these skewers?
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These skewers pair beautifully with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or lettuce wraps for a light meal. You could also serve them over noodles or with steamed vegetables for a complete dinner.
