These Mexican barbecue chicken skewers are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated with spices, salsa, and a hint of lime, then grilled to perfection. Yum!
They’re perfect for gatherings or a sunny afternoon. I love serving mine with fresh veggies and a little extra salsa on the side—who can resist that burst of flavor?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breast works too, but it might be drier. Turkey thighs can be a fun alternative if you’re feeling adventurous.
Bell Peppers: These add color and sweetness. You can mix and match your favorite colors like orange or even use zucchini for a twist. If you’re avoiding nightshades, consider using mushrooms or other veggies.
Olive Oil: This is great for marinade richness. If you want to try something different, avocado oil can also work well due to its high smoke point. For a boost of flavor, you could use infused oils like garlic or chili oil.
Spices: The combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika adds depth. If you want less heat, reduce the amount of chili powder or use a mild version. Alternatively, taco seasoning makes a great one-stop option!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Stay Juicy?
Keeping chicken juicy is all about marinating and grilling correctly. The marinade adds flavor and tenderizes the meat. Make sure to leave the chicken in for at least an hour—overnight is even better! This allows the spices to penetrate well.
- Before grilling, let the skewers come to room temperature for even cooking.
- Heat your grill to medium-high; too hot can burn the outside quickly.
- Turn the skewers occasionally to cook evenly and develop nice grill marks.
- Check for doneness: chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken (or overnight for extra flavor). Once you’re ready to grill, it will take around 10-12 minutes to cook. So, in total, plan for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well to combine all the flavors into a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure every piece is coated nicely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or if you can, overnight. This will make your chicken super flavorful!
3. Prep and Grill the Skewers:
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to grill! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While that’s heating up, thread the marinated chicken and the colorful bell pepper and onion pieces onto the skewers. Alternate between chicken and vegetables for a beautiful look.
4. Cooking the Skewers:
When the grill is nice and hot, place the skewers on it. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when the chicken is cooked through and has those lovely grill marks.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve these tasty skewers hot with your favorite dipping sauce or tortillas for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Skewers?
Absolutely! You can substitute or add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even corn for a twist. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can be marinated for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor, but if you’re short on time, even 1 hour in the marinade will still be delicious. Just keep it covered in the fridge!
Can I Grill These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through until the chicken is cooked through. Just ensure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they may become a bit soft.
