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Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers

Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers
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Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer a flavorful fusion of tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy crunchy shell, tossed in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. Perfectly cooked in an air fryer, this quick and easy recipe delivers a satisfying balance of crunch and juiciness, ideal for weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or meal prep. With adjustable spice levels, it’s family friendly and versatile for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 1 cup panko bread crumbs (or gluten-free panko/crushed nuts for gluten-free option)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Wooden skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes) or reusable metal skewers

Bang Bang Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative)
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1–2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions, for garnish
  • Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Additional cayenne pepper for extra heat
  • Lime juice or honey to tweak sauce flavor
  • Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini pieces (for grilled veggie skewers)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut chicken breasts or thighs into evenly sized chunks to ensure uniform cooking. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to build a flavorful base.
  2. Bread the Chicken: Beat the egg in a bowl. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, making sure every piece is well covered to create a crunchy exterior.
  3. Thread the Skewers: Carefully slide the breaded chicken chunks onto soaked wooden or metal skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even air circulation during cooking.
  4. Air Fry the Skewers: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the skewers in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha until smooth and creamy. Adjust the spiciness with more or less sriracha as desired.
  6. Toss and Serve: Remove the cooked skewers from the air fryer and brush or drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over the chicken. Garnish with chopped cilantro, green onions, or toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

  • Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and avoid dryness.
  • Always preheat your air fryer for crispier results and consistent cooking.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; allow space for hot air circulation for optimal crispiness.
  • Using panko breadcrumbs provides a crunchier coating than regular breadcrumbs.
  • Customize the bang bang sauce by adding lime juice or honey for brightness and sweetness.
  • Wooden skewers must be soaked for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  • For gluten-free options, substitute regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
  • Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, bang bang chicken, chicken skewers, crispy chicken, spicy chicken, easy dinner, appetizer, party snack, gluten-free option

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/air-fryer-bang-bang-chicken-skewers/