Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delicious and flavorful dish perfect for any gathering or barbecue. These tender chicken skewers are marinated in a zesty blend of spices that bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your grill. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress with its combination of juicy chicken and colorful vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have these skewers ready in no time.
• Full of Flavor: The unique combination of spices brings out the best in the chicken, making every bite delicious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with sides like Mexican Chopped Salad or rice for a complete meal.
• Colorful Presentation: The mix of bell peppers and onion adds visual appeal, making them perfect for entertaining.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Low in calories and high in protein, these skewers fit well into a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, you’ll need some essential tools to help streamline the process. Having the right equipment makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini food processor
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Grill or oven
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini food processor: This tool helps you easily blend the marinade ingredients into a smooth paste.
• Skewers: They are essential for holding together your chicken and veggies while cooking.
• Grill or oven: Both options allow you to cook your skewers evenly and achieve that delightful charred flavor.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

• 8 small boneless chicken thighs, any visible fat removed (approx 650g/22.5oz)
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed
• 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons of cumin
• 2 teaspoons of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of oregano
• handful of fresh coriander
• juice of half a lime
• salt and black pepper

For the Skewers

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
• 1 white onion, chopped into square pieces
• cooking oil spray

How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mini food processor, combine the spices, jalapeño, lime juice, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pulse until it forms a smooth paste. If needed, add water gradually to help blend.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. Place them in a mixing bowl and add the marinade. Toss until thoroughly coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least a few hours or overnight for best results.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during cooking.
2. Alternate threading the marinated chicken with pieces of bell peppers and onion onto each skewer.

Step 4: Cook the Skewers

1. Spray the assembled skewers lightly with cooking oil.
2. Preheat your grill or oven; cook on high heat for about 15 minutes, turning frequently until cooked through.
3. Alternatively, bake in an oven at 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for about 25-30 minutes.

These delightful Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are great served alongside your favorite sides like Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice! Enjoy!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Serving Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers is a delightful experience that allows you to showcase the vibrant flavors of this dish. Whether for a family gathering or a casual barbecue, these skewers can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance their appeal.

Fresh Salsa

• A zesty tomato salsa adds freshness and crunch, complementing the smoky flavors of the skewers.

Guacamole

• Creamy guacamole provides a rich and satisfying dip that balances the spice of the chicken.

Warm Tortillas

• Soft, warm tortillas allow guests to make their own wraps filled with skewers, creating a fun interactive meal.

Mexican Chopped Salad

• A colorful salad made with mixed greens, corn, beans, and avocado adds a refreshing contrast to the skewers.

Cilantro Lime Rice

• Flavorful rice seasoned with lime and fresh cilantro pairs perfectly, soaking up any juices from the skewers.

Pickled Red Onions

• Tangy pickled onions provide an excellent acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Creating perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers is all about mastering flavor and texture. Here are some essential tips to elevate your dish.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor absorption for juicier skewers.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like coriander and ripe vegetables will add vibrant flavors that dried ingredients cannot replicate.

• Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water prevents burning and helps them cook evenly.

• Alternate Ingredients: Alternating chicken pieces with colorful vegetables not only looks appealing but also adds layers of flavor.

• Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

• Rest Before Serving: Letting the skewers rest for a few minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers can enhance both flavor and presentation. Here are some delicious options:

1. Mexican Chopped Salad: A mix of lettuce, tomatoes, corn, and black beans topped with a citrus vinaigrette makes a refreshing side.

2. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish infused with lime juice and fresh cilantro complements the smoky skewers beautifully.

3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with lime butter gives a sweet and smoky taste that pairs perfectly with barbecued meats.

4. Spicy Black Beans: Rich in protein, black beans spiced with cumin provide a hearty balance alongside your skewers.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until tender add color and depth to your plate while enhancing nutritional value.

6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice create a bright topping or dip that livens up each bite.

7. Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries offer sweetness and crunch as an alternative to traditional potato sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers turn out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Bold Marinade Failure: Not marinating the chicken long enough can result in bland skewers. Aim for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, to let the flavors infuse.
• Bold Skewer Selection Mistakes: Using dry wooden skewers without soaking them can lead to burning. Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Bold Improper Cooking Temperature: Cooking on too low heat can cause uneven cooking. Make sure your barbecue is hot enough to give the chicken that delicious char.
• Bold Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many pieces onto each skewer can prevent even cooking. Leave space between pieces for better heat distribution.
• Bold Not Checking Doneness: Failing to check if the chicken is fully cooked can lead to food safety issues. Always use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover skewers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed, adding a splash of water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.

Can I use different meats for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

How do I make these skewers spicy?

To increase spiciness, add more jalapeño or include additional spicy peppers in the marinade.

What should I serve with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair well with sides like Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice for a complete meal.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! The marinade can be made up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. They’re perfect for gatherings or quick weeknight meals. Try this recipe today and enjoy a burst of flavors!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 (4 skewers per serving) 1x

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Description

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Mexican cuisine to your grill. Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy weeknight dinners, these skewers feature tender marinated chicken paired with colorful bell peppers and onions. Marinated in a zesty blend of spices, each bite bursts with flavor, making them an instant crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 small boneless chicken thighs, any visible fat removed
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed
• 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons of cumin
• 2 teaspoons of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of oregano
• handful of fresh coriander
• juice of half a lime
• salt and black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped into square pieces
• 1 white onion, chopped into square pieces
• cooking oil spray

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Instructions

1. In a mini food processor, blend garlic, jalapeño, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, oregano, coriander, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Dice the chicken thighs and coat them in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes (if using). Thread marinated chicken and veggies onto skewers alternately.
4. Preheat grill or oven to high heat. Cook skewers for about 15 minutes on the grill or bake at 220°C (425°F) for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling/Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (130g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 75mg