1-First step: soak the skewers and prep the chicken Start by soaking the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. This step matters if you are grilling, since it helps keep the sticks from burning. While the skewers soak, cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes so they cook at the same speed. Even pieces also make the skewers look nicer and help the chicken stay juicy.

2-Second step: season the chicken Add the chicken pieces to a large bowl. Drizzle on the extra virgin olive oil, then sprinkle in the paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss until every piece is coated. This seasoning mix keeps the chicken flavorful on its own, even before the bang bang sauce goes on. If you like a bolder grilled chicken flavor, let the seasoned chicken sit for 10 to 15 minutes before threading it onto the skewers. That short rest gives the spices time to settle in.

3-Third step: make the bang bang sauce In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the Sriracha if you want more heat. You can also add a little more honey if you want a sweeter finish.

4-Fourth step: thread the chicken onto skewers Thread the seasoned chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. A small gap helps the heat move around the chicken and gives you better browning. Do not pack the pieces too tightly, or they may steam instead of char. If you are cooking for a crowd, you can line up several skewers on a tray before grilling. This also makes it easier to brush on sauce later.

5-Fifth step: cook the skewers For the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high, about 400°F. Oil the grates lightly so the chicken does not stick. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes total, turning every 2 to 3 minutes so the chicken browns on all sides. Cook until the chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part. For the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the skewers in a single layer, trimming the sticks if needed so they fit. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through. If you are using an oven, bake the skewers at 425°F on a lined sheet pan for about 15 to 18 minutes, turning once. This is a handy option when the weather does not cooperate.

6-Final step: sauce and serve Once the chicken is cooked, brush the skewers with the bang bang sauce or toss the chicken in the sauce after removing it from the grill or air fryer. Both methods work. Brushing gives you a lighter coating, while tossing gives you a thicker, saucier finish. Let the skewers rest for 2 minutes before serving so the juices settle. Serve these Bang Bang Chicken Skewers with rice, grilled vegetables, cucumber salad, or a simple slaw. They are also great with other easy backyard favorites like grilled chicken kabobs with vegetables if you want to build a full cookout menu.