1-First Step: Prep the chicken and season it well Start by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes if you have not done that already. Try to keep the pieces close in size so they cook at the same rate. Add the chicken to a large bowl with 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Toss everything together until each piece is coated. This first step matters because the oil helps the spice cling to the chicken, and the seasoning gives the chicken flavor before it even touches the sauce. If you have time, let it sit for a few minutes while you soak the skewers or stir together the sauce.

2-Second Step: Thread the chicken onto skewers Once the chicken is seasoned, thread 4 to 5 chicken cubes onto each skewer. Do not pack them too tightly. A little space helps the heat move around the chicken, which gives you better cooking results whether you are baking, grilling, or air frying. If you are using wooden skewers, make sure they have soaked in water for 30 minutes. That helps prevent burning. Metal skewers are a great backup if you want to skip that step.

3-Third Step: Mix the bang bang sauce In a small bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups mayonnaise, 2/3 cup Thai sweet chili sauce, 2 teaspoons Sriracha, and 2 tablespoons honey. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste it and add a little more Sriracha if you want extra heat. The sauce is where this dish really shines. It is creamy, sweet, spicy, and just a little tangy. If you enjoy the classic flavor profile, you might also like reading more about bang bang chicken and where this flavor style comes from.

4-Fourth Step: Save half the sauce and brush the rest on the chicken Set half of the sauce aside for serving later. Brush the remaining sauce onto the chicken skewers. This keeps the finished dish creamy without wasting any sauce. It also gives the chicken a nice coating before cooking. For baking and grilling, it is best to keep the sauce off until after cooking so it does not burn. The air fryer method gives you a little more flexibility, but even then, brushing on the sauce after cooking keeps the flavor fresh and smooth.

5-Fifth Step: Cook the skewers in the air fryer, oven, or grill Air fryer method: Place the skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 11 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F internally. Brush with the reserved sauce and serve. Oven method: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the skewers on the sheet without sauce and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. When the chicken reaches 165°F internally, brush with sauce and serve. Grill method: Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for 8 to 10 minutes per side, again until the chicken reaches 165°F internally. Brush with sauce after grilling for the best texture and flavor.

6-Final Step: Serve hot and enjoy Once the chicken is done, brush on the reserved sauce and serve right away. These skewers are great on their own as an appetizer or paired with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad for a full meal. Since the sauce is creamy and sweet-spicy, a cool side dish works especially well.