Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers offer a crispy, juicy, and flavorful bite that’s perfect for a quick meal or appetizer. These skewers are coated in a tangy, spicy sauce and then crisped up in the air fryer for a delicious crunch. With a blend of Thai sweet chili sauce, mayonnaise, and honey, these skewers are sure to satisfy your craving for something savory and a little sweet.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp soy sauce
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup cornstarch
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and soy sauce.
In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and cornstarch.
Dip each chicken cube into the mayo mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers.
Place the skewers in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: For more heat, add extra chili flakes to the sauce or drizzle some sriracha over the chicken before serving.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure that the soy sauce is gluten-free.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu cubes for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
Extra Crunch: For a crispier texture, double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the mayo mixture and breadcrumb mixture twice.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the skewers back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to re-crisp the exterior.

10 FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts. They may take a little longer to cook, but they will add extra juiciness.
Can I prepare the skewers in advance? Yes, you can assemble the skewers ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Just coat them with the sauces and breadcrumbs right before cooking.
Can I cook the chicken skewers without skewers? Yes, you can skip the skewers and simply place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I use a different sauce for the marinade? Yes, if you prefer a different flavor, you can experiment with sauces like buffalo sauce or barbecue sauce for a unique twist.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
Can I make this recipe without honey? Yes, you can omit the honey or substitute it with agave nectar or maple syrup for a similar sweetness.
Can I cook these skewers in the oven? Yes, you can bake the skewers at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
How can I add more flavor to the breadcrumbs? You can add herbs like garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? It’s best to thaw frozen chicken completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with these chicken skewers? These skewers pair well with a simple side salad, rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce like ranch or extra sweet chili sauce.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are a quick and delicious way to enjoy a crispy, flavorful meal. The combination of the sweet, spicy sauce and crunchy exterior makes for a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a party appetizer. With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is a great option when you’re craving something tasty and satisfying!