If you’re searching for a dish that’s bold, flavorful, and fun to eat, the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Mayo Recipe is exactly what you need. These skewers are packed with tender, juicy chicken coated in a smoky, spicy blend of seasonings and paired with a creamy, zesty mayo that’s bursting with lime and heat. Whether grilled or air-fried, every bite delivers a fantastic mix of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that will have you coming back for more. It’s a perfect recipe to share with family and friends that turns an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building layers of flavor and delivering the perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and zest. From the hearty chicken thighs to the vibrant lime-infused mayo, these ingredients come together in a way that’s both accessible and impressive.
- 1½-2 lbs chicken thighs, cubed: Juicy and tender, chicken thighs stay moist on the grill or in the air fryer.
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Helps the seasonings stick and adds a subtle fruity richness.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: A savory punch that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Provides a mild heat and depth.
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper: Brings a lively kick without overpowering.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances and elevates all the flavors.
- 2 Tbsp hot honey: Sweet heat that caramelizes perfectly on the chicken.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the tangy, spicy sauce.
- 2 Tbsp fresh lime juice: Brightens and adds a zesty pop to the mayo sauce.
- ⅔ cup Thai sweet chili sauce: A sweet-spicy sauce that’s the heart of the bang bang flavor.
- ¼ cup Sriracha: Adds bold heat and a hint of garlicky depth.
How to Make Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Mayo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. Place them in a large bowl then drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Add paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Toss everything together so each piece is beautifully coated in that smoky, spicy seasoning blend. This step not only flavors the chicken deeply but also ensures a juicy texture after cooking.
Step 2: Skewer the Chicken
Grab your skewers and thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto them. Be sure to leave a little space between pieces for even cooking. This makes grilling or air frying much easier and helps the heat circulate to cook the chicken perfectly.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a medium bowl, stir together mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha. This sauce is the soul of the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Mayo Recipe—creamy, tangy, sweet, and spicy all at once. Reserve about half for serving later, then use the rest to baste the chicken in the next step.
Step 4: Grill or Air Fry the Chicken
If grilling, preheat your grill and brush the chicken skewers with the prepared bang bang sauce. Grill until caramelized and cooked through, turning occasionally for an even char. For air frying, place the skewers in your air fryer basket and cook until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked fully. Once done, drizzle with the reserved sauce and finish with hot honey for a sweet, sticky glaze that takes it to the next level.
How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Mayo Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or green onions on top. A wedge of lime on the side adds extra zing and a refreshing touch that complements the rich, spicy sauce beautifully. Toasted sesame seeds also make a lovely visual and textural addition.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, crisp salads like cucumber salad or a crunchy slaw to balance the heat. Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice makes a perfect base, soaking up all the delicious bang bang sauce. For a fun twist, try serving with grilled corn or roasted vegetables to keep the meal vibrant and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange the skewers on a large platter with small bowls of extra spicy lime mayo for dipping. You could also use lettuce leaves to create little wraps for a hands-on eating experience. If you want to serve this as a snack or appetizer, slice up some bread or pita to accompany the chicken and sauce for a casual, inviting setup everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the spicy lime mayo separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again, so the sauce stays fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken skewers by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken skewers gently in a preheated oven or air fryer to maintain juiciness and crisp edges. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery. Once warmed through, add a fresh drizzle of the spicy lime mayo for that signature bang bang kick.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works fine if you prefer leaner meat, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful, especially with the bold seasoning in this recipe.
What if I don’t have Thai sweet chili sauce?
You can substitute with a mix of honey and a bit of chili garlic sauce, though the authentic tangy sweetness of the Thai sauce really makes the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Mayo Recipe stand out.
Are these skewers spicy?
They have a nice level of heat that you can control by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper and Sriracha. The hot honey and creamy mayo also help balance the spice.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just double-check that your Thai sweet chili sauce and Sriracha are gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Is grilling necessary, or can these be cooked in the oven?
Grilling or air frying brings out the best texture and flavor, but you can bake the skewers at a high temperature on a baking sheet. Be sure to baste them with sauce to keep them moist.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about the way the flavors come together in the Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Mayo Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels special yet is incredibly easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite crowd-pleaser that everyone asks for again and again.
Print
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with Spicy Lime Mayo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American with Asian fusion
Description
Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet dish featuring juicy cubed chicken thighs marinated with bold spices, grilled or air fried to perfection, and served with a creamy, zesty bang bang sauce. This recipe delivers a flavorful appetizer or main course that’s perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, combining the heat of Sriracha and cayenne with the sweetness of Thai chili sauce and honey.
Ingredients
Chicken and 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
Sauce
- 2 Tbsp hot honey
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp lime juice, fresh squeezed
- â…” cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- ¼ cup Sriracha
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 well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the seasoning blend.
- Skewer the Chicken: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto skewers, making sure not to overcrowd so they cook evenly.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, fresh squeezed lime juice, Thai sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth. Set aside half of this sauce to serve with the skewers later.
- Cook the Skewers (Grilling Method): Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and brush them generously with the prepared bang bang sauce. Grill the skewers, turning occasionally and continuing to brush them with more sauce, until the chicken is fully cooked through and caramelized on the outside, about 10-12 minutes.
- Cook the Skewers (Air Frying Method): Alternatively, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), flipping halfway through. Once cooked, drizzle with the reserved bang bang sauce and a little hot honey for extra sweetness and heat.
- Serve: Remove skewers from heat and serve immediately with extra bang bang sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For easy skewering, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
- You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast but note thighs remain juicier.
- If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of Sriracha and cayenne pepper.
- These skewers pair well with steamed rice or a fresh cucumber salad.
- Leftover skewers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
