If you’re on the hunt for a dish that packs a punch of flavor yet feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Sauce Recipe is about to steal your heart and your taste buds. Tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated with smoky spices and grilled to perfection, then smothered in a creamy, tangy sauce with just the right kick of heat — it’s the kind of meal that makes weeknight dinners exciting and weekend gatherings unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a kitchen newbie, these skewers bring a glorious mix of bold flavors and vibrant colors that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s keep it simple but impactful with ingredients that each play a key role in creating the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, tangy, and sweet elements in this dish. Every component is easy to find and essential to build the complexities you crave from Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Sauce Recipe.
- Chicken thighs (1½-2 lbs): Tender and juicy, these are the best cut for skewers as they stay moist and absorb flavors well.
- Extra virgin olive oil (1 Tbsp): Helps the spices stick to the chicken and adds a subtle richness.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Offers smoky depth and a vibrant color to the marinade.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Brings a punch of savory flavor without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1 tsp): Adds a mild heat and complexity.
- Cayenne pepper (½ tsp): The secret spark that wakes up the palate with gentle spice.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all the other flavors.
- Hot honey (2 Tbsp): Adds sweet heat that brilliantly balances the spicy sauce.
- Mayonnaise (1 cup): Creates a creamy base that mellows the heat and binds the sauce together.
- Fresh lime juice (2 Tbsp): Introduces a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Thai sweet chili sauce (⅔ cup): Brings a perfect combination of sweetness and mild spice.
- Sriracha (¼ cup): Elevates the sauce with a bold, garlicky heat.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken thighs into roughly 1-inch cubes — the perfect size for quick, even cooking on skewers. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. The spices will cling to the chicken, infusing every bite with warmth and depth. Give it a good mix and let the flavors mingle while you get ready for the next step.
Step 2: Skewer the Chicken
Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto your skewers. Whether you’re using wooden or metal skewers, make sure the chicken is packed snugly but with a little space so it cooks thoroughly and evenly. This step is where your beautiful presentation begins to take shape — seeing those juicy pieces lined up is almost too tempting to wait for the final cook!
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While the chicken is waiting, whip up the signature sauce that truly makes this recipe sing. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. This creamy, tangy, and spicy sauce is what gives the dish its irresistible Bang Bang magic. Reserve about half of this sauce for serving — you will use the rest as a glaze during grilling.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Now, it’s time to get cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high. Brush the chicken skewers generously with the sauce glaze, then place them on the grill. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, basting with more sauce as they char and caramelize. The smell alone is enough to make your mouth water. You’re aiming for a beautiful golden, slightly smoky crust with tender, juicy insides.
Step 5: Air Fry Option
Short on grill time? No problem. Air fry the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking. Once done, drizzle them with hot honey and the reserved Bang Bang sauce for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped green onions and fresh cilantro makes a fantastic fresh pop against the spicy richness of the sauce. A wedge of lime on the side invites diners to add an extra zing just before the first bite. Toasted sesame seeds also add a delightful crunch and visual appeal that makes your skewers festive and inviting.
Side Dishes
These chicken skewers shine alongside crisp, cooling cucumber salad, fluffy jasmine rice, or even a vibrant mango slaw. The contrast between the rich Bang Bang sauce and the fresh, cooling sides will keep your palate happy and balanced. Consider a simple grilled corn salad or crunchy Asian slaw for extra texture and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your skewers on a rustic wooden board with small dipping bowls of the reserved spicy lime sauce and some extra hot honey on the side. For a fun twist at a party, place the skewers vertically in a tall glass or jar — it’s eye-catching and super convenient for guests to grab and enjoy. Wrapping up the chicken in lettuce leaves with a drizzle of sauce turns it into a handheld party snack with big flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, no worries! Store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the Bang Bang sauce separate to prevent the skewers from becoming soggy. When ready to eat, the flavors will have even more time to meld, making each bite just as exciting.
Freezing
To extend their life, freeze uncooked, seasoned chicken skewers in a single layer on a tray before transferring to freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you want them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and proceed with grilling or air frying as instructed. This is a fantastic way to have quick, flavorful meals on hand.
Reheating
Reheat cooked skewers gently under a grill, in the oven, or air fryer to avoid drying out the chicken. Brush with reserved Bang Bang sauce or a little olive oil before warming to keep them moist. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that lovely grilled texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work fine but tend to be leaner and can dry out faster, so be careful not to overcook. Adjust grilling time accordingly and consider marinating a bit longer for added moisture.
What if I don’t have Thai sweet chili sauce?
No worries, you can substitute with a mix of honey and a mild chili sauce or even a bit of apricot preserves with chili flakes to mimic the sweet-spicy combo.
Are wooden skewers okay to use?
Wooden skewers are perfect but make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning during cooking.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe has a nice, moderate heat from the cayenne and Sriracha, balanced by sweet and creamy elements. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less Sriracha or cayenne depending on your taste.
Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes! Ensure your Thai sweet chili sauce and any other sauces you use are labeled gluten-free, and all the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free. This recipe is very adaptable.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about skewers kissed by the grill, drenched in a luscious, spicy, tangy sauce, and bursting with vibrant flavors. The Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a fun weeknight meal or a festive gathering with friends. So grab those skewers, fire up the grill or air fryer, and dive into the deliciousness that awaits. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and spicy grilled or air-fried chicken dish, featuring juicy marinated chicken thighs skewered and cooked to perfection. They are coated with a delicious creamy and tangy Bang Bang sauce combined with a hint of hot honey, making them an irresistible appetizer or main course perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 1½–2 lbs chicken thighs, cubed into 1 inch pieces
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp salt
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp lime juice, fresh squeezed
- ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup Sriracha
- 2 Tbsp hot honey (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken thighs with extra virgin olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto skewers, spacing them evenly to ensure even cooking. This step prepares the chicken for either grilling or air frying.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth and well combined. Reserve half of this sauce for serving later.
- Cook the Chicken Skewers – Grilling Method: Brush the skewered chicken generously with the Bang Bang sauce. Grill the skewers over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, and continue brushing with the sauce until the chicken is cooked through and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken Skewers – Air Frying Method: Place the skewered chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly crisp. After cooking, drizzle with the reserved Bang Bang sauce and hot honey for an added sweet-spicy finish.
- Serve: Serve the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy as a delicious appetizer or main dish.
Notes
- You can use wooden or metal skewers, but if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling or air frying to prevent burning.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of cayenne pepper and Sriracha according to your preference.
- If you do not have Thai sweet chili sauce, you can substitute with a mix of sweet chili sauce and a bit of honey.
- These skewers can be cooked on a grill pan or under a broiler if an outdoor grill or air fryer is not available.
- Leftover Bang Bang sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
