These Mexican barbecue chicken skewers are packed with flavor and super fun to eat! Marinated in a tasty mix of spices and grilled to perfection, they’re a real crowd-pleaser.
Who doesn’t love finger food? I often make these for gatherings, and they disappear fast! Serve them with some cool sauce on the side for an extra treat. Enjoy the sizzle! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is perfect for skewers because it cooks quickly and stays juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey breast instead. For added flavor, thighs can also be used as they’re more tender.
Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, and green bell peppers add color and sweetness. If you can’t find fresh peppers, try using zucchini or mushrooms as a colorful alternative. They add different flavors and textures to your skewers.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is great as a garnish. If you’re not a fan, parsley works well too. You can also skip the herbs altogether if you prefer a different flavor profile or have allergies.
Spices: The spice mix here, including chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, gives these skewers a fantastic flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a sprinkle of cayenne will still add a nice kick.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken is Juicy and Full of Flavor?
One crucial step is marinating the chicken. Marinating not only adds flavor but also helps keep the chicken juicy during cooking. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, allow up to 2 hours! Here’s how to do it:
- Combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, and spices in a large bowl.
- Add the chicken cubes and make sure they are thoroughly coated.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate.
Remember, letting the chicken soak up those flavors will make all the difference at meal time!
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 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
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes if wooden)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes for marinating. Plus, you’ll need around 10-12 minutes for grilling. In total, plan for about 1 hour for everything, especially if you want the chicken to soak up that delicious marinade!
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 everything well until you have a nice, smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add all the chicken cubes to the marinades and make sure they are well coated. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have some extra time, letting it sit for 1-2 hours will make it even tastier!
3. Preheat and Assemble:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. When the grill is ready, take the skewers and start assembling them. Alternate threading the marinated chicken, red, yellow, and green bell peppers, and onion pieces onto the skewers.
4. Grill the Skewers:
Once you’re all set with the skewers, place them on the hot grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes. Don’t forget to turn them occasionally! You want the chicken to be cooked through and have a lovely char on the outside.
5. Rest and Garnish:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle in. Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top for a burst of flavor. You can also serve with lime wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, if you like!
Enjoy your delicious Mexican barbecue chicken skewers!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even corn. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. Adjust the grilling time as needed based on the vegetables you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Lime Juice?
If you’re out of lime juice, lemon juice is a great substitute! It will add a similar tangy flavor. If you want to get creative, you can also try apple cider vinegar or orange juice for a different twist.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them on a grill or in the oven at a low temperature to warm them up without drying them out.
Can I Prepare the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the skewers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. Just be sure to give them a little time to come to room temperature before cooking for even grilling.
