Name: 15-Minute Chicken Skewers with Spicy Bang Bang Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American with Thai influence
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt or to taste; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes; ½ cup mayonnaise; ⅓ cup Thai sweet chili sauce; 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste); 1 tablespoon honey; Parsley for garnish

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Introduction

These 15 Minute Chicken Skewers are a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Marinated with smoky paprika and a spicy-sweet bang bang sauce, they cook perfectly in an air fryer for a juicy, tender bite every time.

The image shows four grilled chicken skewers laid on wrinkled parchment paper, each skewer containing several chunks of grilled chicken with a slightly charred orange-brown color, topped with a creamy, light orange sauce that appears to be drizzled unevenly. Fresh green herb leaves, likely parsley or cilantro, are scattered on top and around the chicken pieces, adding a pop of color. To the left, there is a close-up partial view of a white bowl filled with the same light orange sauce, with the surface showing a smooth texture. The background is a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
½ cup mayonnaise
⅓ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
1 tablespoon honey
Parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, mix together the diced chicken, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 2: Thread 4-5 chicken cubes onto each soaked wooden skewer, one piece at a time to secure them firmly.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir well to create the bang bang sauce.
Step 4: Divide the sauce in half. Place one portion in a separate bowl for later, and use the remaining sauce to brush evenly over the chicken skewers.
Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Arrange the skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
Step 7: Air fry the skewers for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
Step 8: Transfer the cooked skewers to a plate. Brush generously with the reserved bang bang sauce and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prevents them from burning during cooking.
You can swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier skewers.
Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the bang bang sauce to control the spiciness.
Serve with a side of steamed rice or fresh salad to complete the meal.

Storage

Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through. The bang bang sauce can be kept separately in the fridge for up to a week.

How to Serve

A close-up view of grilled chicken skewers with three golden-brown, slightly charred pieces on each bamboo skewer, showing a glaze that adds a shiny texture. The skewer in the front is dipped halfway into a small white bowl filled with a smooth, creamy orange sauce, with the chicken covered in a little sauce and topped with small green herb pieces. In the background, more skewers are laid on a round white plate, resting on a white marbled surface, with a sprig of fresh green herbs partially visible on the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I grill these chicken skewers instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the skewers on a preheated grill over medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to char evenly and ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

How can I tell when the chicken is done?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.