Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
The allure of Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers is hard to resist. Juicy bites of chicken, perfectly cooked and drizzled with a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce, make for a delightful experience that’s both crispy and satisfying. This dish is a go-to for busy weeknights or fun gatherings, offering an amazing flavor profile that pleases everyone at the table. Personally, I love preparing these skewers for BBQs or an easy Sunday dinner with family — they’re always a hit!
Why you’ll love this dish
This recipe is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons to try Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers at home:
- Quick and Easy: You can have this meal ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those rushed weekdays.
- Kid-Approved: The blend of sweetness from the chili sauce and a kick from the Sriracha captivates both kids and adults.
- Healthy Cooking: Air frying cuts down on oil while still delivering a crispy texture, making it a healthier choice.
"These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a game changer! So easy to make and my family can’t get enough!" – A Satisfied Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Here’s how you can quickly whip up these flavorful skewers. The overall process includes marinating the chicken, threading it onto skewers, and cooking it in your air fryer. The key is to ensure the chicken is evenly coated in the spices and sauce, so they really shine in flavor.
- Begin by cutting chicken into cubes.
- Marinate and season.
- Thread the chicken onto skewers.
- Cook and glaze with the special sauce.
Let’s dive into the details!
What you’ll need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward delicious air-fried skewers. Here’s what you will need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- 1 1/4 cups mayonnaise
- 2/3 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha (or more to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
Feel free to swap the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or adjust the spiciness by altering the Sriracha.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Thread 4-5 marinated chicken cubes onto each soaked skewer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
- Reserve half the sauce in another bowl for later. Brush the remaining sauce over the skewers.
- Place the skewers in your air fryer basket, ensuring they’re in a single layer.
- Air fry at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Transfer the skewers to a plate and brush or drizzle with the reserved sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
For those opting for the oven, preheat it to 400°F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and cook the skewers for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway and glazing with sauce before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers can be served in various delightful ways. Consider these ideas:
- On a Platter: Arrange the skewers on a large plate and drizzle extra sauce on top for that appealing presentation.
- With Dips: Pair with a side of fresh veggies and dipping sauces like ranch or a spicy aioli.
- With Rice or Noodles: Serve alongside jasmine rice or rice noodles, complemented by steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is often the case!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To retain the crispiness, use the air fryer again set at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.
- Freeze: You can also freeze uncooked skewers. Simply marinate them, assemble on skewers, and store in a freezer bag. Label with the date, and they’ll be good for up to 2 months.
Pro chef tips
- Let it Marinate: For added depth of flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes prior to cooking.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for that 165°F doneness.
- Try Different Proteins: This recipe works well with shrimp or firm tofu for those seeking different protein options!
Creative twists
Want to mix it up? Here are some variations you can make:
- Spicy Pineapple: Toss some pineapple chunks onto the skewers for a sweet and savory combo.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade for a fresh flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Replace the mayonnaise with a gluten-free alternative and ensure your chili sauce is gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.
Your questions answered
-
How long does it take to prepare?
From prep to table, expect about 30 minutes total. -
Can I use frozen chicken?
For best results, use fresh chicken, but if using frozen, make sure to thaw completely before marinating. -
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or sour cream are fantastic alternatives for a lighter sauce.
Enjoy making these Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers for your next meal, and savor the rave reviews you’re bound to get!
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- Thread 4-5 marinated chicken cubes onto each soaked skewer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey.
- Reserve half the sauce in another bowl for later. Brush the remaining sauce over the skewers.
- Place the skewers in your air fryer basket, ensuring they’re in a single layer.
- Air fry at 400°F for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Transfer the skewers to a plate and brush or drizzle with the reserved sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
- Preheat oven to 400°F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and cook the skewers for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway and glazing with sauce before serving.
