Irresistibly Delicious Oven-Baked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Prepare to experience a culinary sensation that might just cause a friendly skirmish at your dinner table! Our Oven-Baked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are so incredibly addictive, they have a reputation for disappearing fast. Forget complicated recipes – this one is delightfully easy. Simply marinate, thread onto skewers, and bake until golden perfection, achieving that subtly charred edge that usually only comes from a grill.

But the real star of the show? That sweet-spicy Bang Bang sauce. It’s not just a sauce; it’s a revelation. Seriously, make extra. You’ll find yourself drizzling it over everything from crispy fries and savory tacos to weeknight stir-fries and even breakfast burritos (don’t knock it ’til you try it!).

We’re absolutely obsessed with these skewers and constantly seek excuses to whip them up. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal, a lively family gathering, or a fun party appetizer, they never disappoint. Give them a try, and we’re confident you’ll fall head over heels too!

Why You’ll Love These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Bang Bang Chicken Skewers aren’t just another meal; they’re an experience waiting to happen. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire:

1. **Unmatched Versatility:** These skewers are your go-to for any occasion. Serve them as a satisfying main course with a side of rice, transform them into irresistible appetizers for your next party, or even pack them for a delightful lunch. Their crowd-pleasing flavor ensures they’re a hit every time.
2. **Effortless Oven-Baked Perfection:** Forget standing over a hot grill. Our recipe leverages the simplicity of oven-baking, delivering perfectly cooked chicken with those coveted golden, lightly charred edges. It’s a hands-off approach that frees you up to enjoy your time while dinner practically cooks itself.
3. **The Legendary Bang Bang Sauce:** This isn’t just any sauce. It’s a quick-to-make, flavor-packed concoction that balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes in a way that’s truly next-level. We encourage you to make a generous batch, as you’ll want to slather it on everything from salads to sandwiches. The leftovers are a treasure!
4. **Multi-Method Cooking Flexibility:** While oven-baking is our preferred method for ease, these skewers are incredibly adaptable. You can achieve equally delicious results using an air fryer for extra crispiness, a griddle pan on your stovetop for quick searing, or a traditional outdoor grill for that authentic smoky char.
5. **A Family Favorite:** Designed to be universally appealing, these skewers are a fantastic option for families with diverse palates. The spice level is easily customizable, meaning you can dial up the heat for the adults or keep it mild for younger eaters. It’s a meal everyone can agree on.
6. **Customizable Spice Level:** Craving a fiery kick or prefer a gentle warmth? The beauty of this Bang Bang sauce lies in its adaptability. Adjust the amount of sriracha to perfectly match your desired heat level, ensuring a personalized experience for every diner.
7. **Juicy Chicken Thighs:** We specifically call for skinless, boneless chicken thighs for a reason. This “brown meat” cut is renowned for its rich flavor and inherent juiciness, ensuring your skewers remain tender and moist throughout the cooking process. Say goodbye to dry, bland chicken!
8. **Minimal Cleanup:** With oven-baking on a wire rack, cleanup is surprisingly simple. Less fuss in the kitchen means more time to savor your delicious creation.

Complementary Dishes and Sides

While these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are undeniably a showstopper on their own, pairing them with the right sides can elevate your meal to a truly unforgettable feast. Here are some of our top recommendations to create a balanced and flavorful spread:

More Skewer Sensations:

If the sweet and savory allure of these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers has captured your heart, you’ll definitely want to try our Sticky Chinese Chicken Skewers next. They share that same irresistible sweet-and-savory profile, offering a delightful variation for your next skewer night.

Perfect Side Pairings:

• **Loaded Wedges with Chorizo and Avocado Sauce:** For a hearty and indulgent side, our Loaded Wedges with Chorizo and Avocado Sauce bring a textural contrast and a burst of complementary flavors. The creamy avocado and smoky chorizo are a fantastic match for the chicken.
• **Fluffy Coconut Basmati Rice:** A classic pairing that never fails, Fluffy Coconut Basmati Rice provides a light and aromatic base that perfectly soaks up any extra Bang Bang sauce. It’s especially delicious with a generous drizzle of that sweet-spicy goodness!
• **Creamy Potato Salad:** For something cool, comforting, and wonderfully creamy, a classic Creamy Potato Salad offers a delightful contrast to the warm, spicy skewers. It’s an excellent choice for balancing richer flavors.
• **Fresh Green Salad with a Zesty Vinaigrette:** A simple, crisp green salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the chicken and sauce. Toss it with a light citrus vinaigrette to enhance the overall brightness of the meal.
• **Steamed or Roasted Vegetables:** Broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or bell peppers, lightly steamed or roasted, offer a healthy and colorful addition. A drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of salt is all they need to shine alongside the skewers.

Key Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

The success of these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers lies in the quality and balance of their key ingredients. Understanding each component not only helps in making the dish but also in making informed substitutions if needed.

Skinless and Boneless Chicken Thighs

Skinless, boneless chicken thighs are truly the star of this recipe. Their inherent “brown meat” quality means they are packed with more flavor and a higher fat content compared to chicken breast. This results in incredibly juicy and tender skewers that resist drying out during cooking, even at higher oven temperatures. The rich flavor also complements the sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce beautifully.

While chicken breast can be used as a leaner alternative, be mindful that it will not be quite as tender or flavorful. If opting for chicken breast, consider cutting the pieces slightly larger or reducing the cooking time by a few minutes to prevent them from becoming dry. Ensure they are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Don’t fret about achieving perfect cubes when cutting your chicken. Varied shapes and sizes work perfectly fine. If you end up with longer strips, simply fold them over once or twice before threading them onto the skewer. Smaller pieces can be used to fill gaps between larger chunks, ensuring each skewer is packed with delicious chicken.

Sesame Oil

Sesame oil is a crucial component in the chicken marinade, imparting a wonderfully subtle nutty depth that forms the aromatic foundation of the dish. Its distinctive flavor is quintessential in many Asian-inspired recipes and truly elevates the overall profile of the chicken. We recommend using toasted sesame oil for a more pronounced flavor.

However, if sesame oil isn’t readily available in your pantry, don’t let that deter you! A neutral-flavored oil such as olive oil, vegetable oil, or sunflower oil can be used as a straightforward substitute. While you might miss that signature nutty note, the other marinade ingredients will still ensure a delicious result.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise serves as the creamy backbone of your luxurious Bang Bang sauce. Opting for a good quality, full-fat mayonnaise is highly recommended, as it contributes significantly to the sauce’s characteristic richness and indulgent texture. This creamy base is what helps the sauce beautifully coat the chicken skewers.

For those looking for a lighter alternative or a dairy-free option, thick Greek yogurt can make an excellent substitute. While it will lend a tangier profile to the sauce, it still provides a creamy consistency that works well. Ensure it’s plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt to maintain the intended flavor balance.

Sriracha Sauce

Sriracha sauce is responsible for giving the Bang Bang sauce its signature warmth and gentle kick. It provides a vibrant, garlicky heat that perfectly complements the sweetness and creaminess. Our recipe suggests starting with one tablespoon, which delivers a mellow heat – just enough to tantalize your taste buds without overwhelming them, making it kid-friendly and broadly appealing.

But here’s where you can truly personalize your dish: if you’re a heat-seeker, feel free to increase the sriracha to two tablespoons, or even more, to achieve your desired level of spice. Always taste and adjust as you go to find your perfect balance!

Garlic and Ginger Paste

The combination of garlic and ginger paste in the marinade is essential for creating a complex and fragrant flavor profile. These aromatic powerhouses infuse the chicken with a savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and spicy elements of the sauce.

If you prefer to use fresh ingredients, an equivalent amount of freshly minced garlic and ginger will work perfectly and provide an even more vibrant flavor. Alternatively, for convenience, garlic powder or ground ginger can be used. For garlic powder, use about ½ teaspoon per teaspoon of paste, and for ground ginger, use about ¼ teaspoon per teaspoon of paste. Adjust to your taste preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Oven-Baked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly tender and flavor-packed Bang Bang Chicken Skewers right in your own kitchen.

Prepare the Chicken

1. **Soak Wooden Skewers:** If you are using wooden skewers, immerse them in water for at least **30 minutes** prior to use. This crucial step prevents them from charring or burning in the oven, ensuring your chicken cooks evenly without any burnt wood taste.

2. **Create the Marinade:** In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the sesame oil, runny honey, fresh lime juice, garlic paste, ginger paste, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk all these ingredients vigorously until they are thoroughly combined and form a smooth, aromatic marinade. This blend of flavors is key to infusing your chicken with incredible taste.

3. **Marinate the Chicken:** Add your cubed chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Stir well, ensuring every single piece of chicken is completely coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of **30 minutes**. For a significantly deeper and more robust flavor, we highly recommend marinating the chicken for **2 to 3 hours**, or even overnight.

Make the Bang Bang Sauce

4. **Prepare the Sauce:** In a separate small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the Bang Bang sauce: mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, fresh lime juice, runny honey, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until the sauce is perfectly smooth and creamy. Once mixed, spoon out approximately **one-third** of this delectable sauce into a separate small dish – this portion will be used for brushing onto the skewers during baking. Cover the remaining two-thirds of the sauce and refrigerate it; this will be your irresistible dipping sauce when the skewers are ready.

Prepare and Bake the Skewers

5. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Rack:** Preheat your oven to **425°F (220°C)**. To ensure optimal air circulation and a beautiful char, place a wire rack inside a baking dish. Alternatively, you can utilize one of your oven’s built-in racks positioned over a foil-lined baking tray to catch any drips. A simple wire cookie cooling rack placed inside a cookie sheet works perfectly, just ensure it is oven-safe.

6. **Thread the Chicken:** Retrieve the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Carefully thread the chicken pieces onto your pre-soaked wooden skewers (or metal skewers, if using). There’s no need for perfectly uniform pieces; if you have longer strips, simply fold them in half before skewering. Smaller bits are excellent for filling any gaps between larger chicken chunks, ensuring each skewer is well-proportioned.

7. **First Brush and Bake:** Arrange the chicken skewers on the prepared wire rack in a single layer, making sure to leave a little space between each skewer. This allows for even heat distribution and prevents steaming. Generously brush the tops of the skewers with half of the reserved Bang Bang sauce (the one-third portion you set aside earlier). Place the baking sheet with the skewers into the preheated oven.

8. **Flip, Brush, and Finish Baking:** Bake the skewers for **15 minutes**. After this initial baking period, carefully remove the tray from the oven. Using tongs, gently flip each skewer to the other side. Now, brush the newly exposed side generously with the remaining portion of the reserved Bang Bang sauce. Return the skewers to the oven and continue baking for another **10-15 minutes**, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through, beautifully golden, and shows tantalizing signs of charring in places. To confirm doneness, the internal temperature of the chicken should reach **165°F (74°C)** when measured with a meat thermometer.

For an extra boost of char and a slightly crispier finish, you can transfer the skewers to cook under a preheated broiler for a couple of minutes, keeping a very close eye on them to prevent burning. Alternatively, a kitchen torch can be used for a professional-looking, quick char.

9. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once cooked, remove the skewers from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Serve them piping hot, accompanied by the reserved Bang Bang dipping sauce. Garnish generously with fresh lime wedges for a burst of citrus and a sprinkle of chopped fresh coriander or thinly sliced green onion for added freshness and visual appeal. Get ready for rave reviews!

Alternative Cooking Methods for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

While oven-baking provides a convenient and consistent method for these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers, their versatile nature means they can be prepared using several other popular cooking methods. Each method offers a slightly different texture and flavor profile, allowing you to choose what best suits your kitchen setup and personal preference.

Air Fryer

The air fryer is an excellent option for achieving extra crispy chicken skewers with less oil, and often in a shorter amount of time. It’s perfect for smaller batches or when you want a quick weeknight meal.

1. **Preheat:** Set your air fryer to **400°F (200°C)**. Allow it to fully preheat for about 5 minutes.
2. **Arrange Skewers:** Place the marinated and threaded skewers in a single layer within the air fryer basket. Ensure there is adequate space between each skewer to allow hot air to circulate freely around them, promoting even cooking and crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
3. **Cook and Flip:** Cook for **10-12 minutes** in total. Halfway through the cooking time (around the 5-6 minute mark), carefully flip the skewers. At this point, brush both sides with the reserved Bang Bang sauce, just as you would for oven baking.
4. **Check for Doneness:** Continue cooking until the chicken is golden brown, cooked through, and has reached an internal temperature of **165°F (74°C)**. The edges should be nicely crisped.

Griddle Pan (Stovetop)

For those who love a good sear and slightly charred marks, a griddle pan on your stovetop is a fantastic choice. It brings a touch of outdoor grilling indoors, perfect for any season.

1. **Heat Pan:** Heat a lightly oiled griddle pan (or a heavy-bottomed skillet) over medium-high heat until it’s hot and just starting to smoke lightly.
2. **Add Skewers:** Carefully add the chicken skewers to the hot pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook in batches if needed. Cook for **6-8 minutes per side**, turning occasionally.
3. **Brush with Sauce:** As the skewers cook, brush them generously with the reserved Bang Bang sauce on all sides. The sauce will caramelize beautifully on the hot surface.
4. **Cook Through:** Continue to turn and cook until the chicken is nicely charred in places and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of **165°F (74°C)**.

BBQ / Grill

Nothing quite beats the smoky flavor and distinctive char of cooking chicken skewers on an outdoor BBQ or grill. It’s ideal for summer cookouts and imparts a wonderful depth of flavor.

1. **Preheat and Oil:** Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, clean the grates thoroughly and then lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
2. **Grill Skewers:** Place the marinated chicken skewers directly on the oiled grates. Grill for a total of **12-15 minutes**.
3. **Turn and Sauce:** Turn the skewers every few minutes to ensure even cooking and to develop beautiful grill marks on all sides. During the last 5-7 minutes of grilling, brush the skewers generously with the reserved Bang Bang sauce. This allows the sauce to caramelize without burning.
4. **Watch for Flare-Ups:** Keep a close eye on the skewers, especially after applying the sauce, as drippings can cause flare-ups. Move them around the grill as needed for even cooking and to achieve that gorgeous char without overcooking. Ensure the internal temperature reaches **165°F (74°C)** before serving.

Serving Suggestions for Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

These versatile Bang Bang Chicken Skewers pair beautifully with a wide array of side dishes, making them perfect for any meal, from a casual weeknight dinner to an impressive party spread. Here are some inspired serving suggestions to complete your delicious meal:

• **Aromatic Rice Varieties:** Serve alongside a bowl of fragrant Coconut Basmati Rice for a tropical touch, vibrant Yellow Spanish Rice for a pop of color and flavor, or a spicy Portuguese Rice to complement the chicken’s heat.
• **Refreshing Pasta Salad:** A chilled, zesty Italian Cold Pasta Salad (Pasta Fredda) offers a delightful contrast in temperature and texture, cutting through the richness of the chicken.
• **Crisp and Tangy Slaw:** A crunchy, vibrant coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch and a tangy counterpoint that beautifully balances the sweet and spicy sauce of the skewers. Think shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette.
• **Hearty Potato Wedges:** Pair with our indulgent Loaded Potato Wedges with Chorizo and Avocado Sauce for a substantial and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor.
• **Fresh Greens:** For a lighter option, serve the skewers on a bed of mixed greens, perhaps with a simple lime vinaigrette, allowing the chicken to be the star.
• **Grilled or Roasted Vegetables:** Enhance your meal with a colorful medley of grilled bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, or roasted asparagus. Their natural sweetness and slight char will complement the skewers perfectly.
• **Warm Naan Bread or Pita:** Offer warm naan bread or pita alongside the skewers for dipping into the extra Bang Bang sauce, making for an incredibly satisfying bite.
• **Kimchi or Pickled Vegetables:** A side of fermented kimchi or quick-pickled cucumbers and carrots can add a delightful, zesty crunch and probiotic benefits that cleanse the palate.

Make-Ahead Tips for Convenient Cooking

Planning ahead can make meal preparation much smoother, especially when entertaining or dealing with busy weeknights. These Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are excellent for preparing in advance, allowing you to enjoy fresh-tasting food with minimal effort on cooking day.

Marinate Ahead

The chicken can be marinated in the refrigerator for up to **24 hours**. Longer marination times actually enhance the flavor significantly, allowing the chicken to deeply absorb all the aromatic notes from the sesame oil, honey, lime, garlic, and ginger. Simply prepare the marinade, add the chicken, cover, and store.

Pre-Skewer and Refrigerate

To save valuable time right before cooking, you can thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers a few hours in advance, or even up to **6-8 hours** ahead of time. Once skewered, arrange them on a plate or shallow dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge. This makes them perfectly ready to go straight into the oven (or air fryer/grill) when you’re ready to cook.

Prepare Bang Bang Sauce in Advance

The star of the show, the Bang Bang sauce, is incredibly stable and can be made up to **5 days in advance**. Prepare the full batch, transfer it to an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator. Before serving, simply give it a good stir to recombine any separated ingredients, and it will be as creamy and delicious as freshly made.

Freezer Option (Uncooked Chicken)

For ultimate meal prep convenience, you can freeze the chicken in its marinade before skewering. Place the marinated chicken pieces into a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring as much air is removed as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to **2 months**. When you’re ready to cook, simply defrost the chicken overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed with threading onto skewers and baking as per the instructions.

Storage of Leftover Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Proper storage ensures your leftover skewers remain delicious and safe to eat. Any cooked Bang Bang Chicken Skewers should be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to **3 days**. Ensure they cool down to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation buildup.

Reheating Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

To enjoy your leftovers, reheat the skewers gently to maintain their tenderness and flavor. The best methods for reheating are:

• **Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• **Air Fryer:** Reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, or until hot and slightly crisped. This method is great for restoring some of the char.
• **Microwave:** While quicker, the microwave can sometimes make the chicken less tender. Reheat in short bursts until just warm.

Remember that any leftover Bang Bang dipping sauce will stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week, making it perfect for drizzling over rice bowls, wraps, roasted vegetables, or even as a spread for sandwiches.

Freezing Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Freezing offers a great way to extend the life of your Bang Bang Chicken, whether cooked or uncooked.

Uncooked, Marinated Chicken:

Freeze the uncooked, marinated chicken pieces (off the skewers) in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to **2 months**. This is an excellent way to prep for future meals. When ready to use, defrost the chicken overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed to skewer and bake as per the normal recipe instructions. Freezing before cooking helps preserve the texture of the chicken best.

Cooked Skewers:

Cooked skewers can also be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each skewer individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to **1 month**. Be aware that while still delicious, reheated frozen cooked chicken skewers may be slightly less juicy than freshly made ones.

The core ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. However, it’s essential to double-check a couple of specific items to ensure your dish is entirely safe for a gluten-free diet:

• **Thai Sweet Chili Sauce:** Some commercial brands of Thai sweet chili sauce may contain gluten, often in the form of wheat-based thickeners or soy sauce. Always opt for a brand that explicitly states it is **gluten-free**.
• **Mayonnaise:** While most mayonnaise brands are gluten-free, some lesser-known or store-brand versions might contain trace amounts of gluten. Check the ingredient label carefully to ensure you are using a certified **gluten-free mayonnaise**.

Making these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers dairy-free is quite simple, as the only dairy-containing ingredient is typically the mayonnaise.

• **Mayonnaise:** Easily swap out regular mayonnaise for a **dairy-free version**. Many excellent vegan mayonnaise options are available on the market today, often made from plant-based oils like avocado oil or coconut oil, which will provide the same creamy texture without any dairy.

Yes, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken breast as a substitute for thighs. However, be aware that chicken breast is leaner and tends to dry out more easily. To prevent this, consider cutting the chicken breast into slightly larger pieces and reducing the cooking time by a few minutes. Monitor the internal temperature closely to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.

The spice level is completely customizable! For a spicier kick, simply increase the amount of sriracha sauce in the Bang Bang sauce to 2 tablespoons or more, according to your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the sriracha to ½ tablespoon or omit it entirely for a sweeter profile. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat in the chicken itself.

The versatility of the Bang Bang sauce is one of its best features! Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s fantastic as a dipping sauce for virtually anything – spring rolls, chicken nuggets, or even raw vegetables. You can also use it as a flavorful dressing for salads, a spread for sandwiches and wraps, a topping for rice bowls, or a glaze for roasted vegetables.