Get ready for some tasty Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers! These juicy pieces of chicken are marinated in bold spices and then grilled to perfection, making them super flavorful.
I love serving these skewers with fresh veggies and a squeeze of lime. They’re perfect for summer parties or a cozy family dinner. Plus, the kids can help out with threading the chicken on sticks—fun and easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Use skinless chicken breast for a lean option, but you can substitute thighs for juicier meat. If you want a vegetarian twist, firm tofu or seitan work nicely too.
Bell Peppers: The colorful blend of red, yellow, and green bell peppers adds flavor and vibrancy. You can swap with zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes based on your preference.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the spices adhere. If you need a substitute for a higher smoke point, try avocado oil or canola oil instead.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have lime, lemon juice is a good alternative, providing a similar acidity.
Spices: Cumin and smoked paprika are essential for depth of flavor. If you’re out, taco seasoning can serve as a quick substitute. Adjust it to taste!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Marinated?
Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Aim to let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but overnight is the best for deep taste. Combine the marinade ingredients well to ensure even seasoning.
- Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, and all the spices in a bowl.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator.
Remember: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful your skewers will be! Just don’t exceed 24 hours to keep the meat tender.
What’s the Best Way to Grill the Skewers?
Grilling is the highlight of this recipe! Preheating the grill is key to getting those grill marks. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to avoid burning.
- Thread the chicken and vegetables, alternating them for even cooking.
- Keep the grill at medium-high heat, and turn the skewers every few minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F for safety.
Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps juices redistribute, making every bite tender and full of flavor!
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 2 pounds chicken breast, 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 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken (or overnight for more flavor!) and around 15 minutes of grilling time. So, plan for about 1 hour and 35 minutes if you marinate for an hour, or more if you choose to let it sit longer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mix will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until they’re well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, letting it sit overnight will make the flavors even better!
3. Prepare the Grill and Skewers:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to cook, soak your wooden skewers in water to prevent them from burning on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat while the skewers are soaking.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once your chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken, and pieces of red, yellow, and green bell peppers, and onion onto your skewers. Alternate the chicken and vegetables for a colorful and tasty presentation!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally to get nice grill marks on all sides. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown and juicy!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. These skewers are delicious when warm, served with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add any vegetables you like. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms would be great additions. Just make sure they’re cut into pieces similar in size to the chicken for even cooking!
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Breast?
If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs for added juiciness and flavor. You could also use shrimp or firm tofu for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking time as shrimp cooks faster, while tofu may require a few extra minutes.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, until warmed through. This helps maintain their juiciness!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before adding the chicken. Marinating the chicken for a longer time will give it even more flavor!
