These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are full of flavor! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a mix of spicy and sweet sauces, then grilled to perfection on skewers.
Perfect for summer nights, they bring a fun twist to BBQ parties! I love serving them with some fresh salsa on the side. It makes everything taste even better! 🌶️🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the main protein in the dish. For a leaner option, you could use chicken thighs, which are juicier. If you’re looking to avoid meat, try marinated tofu or jackfruit as a substitute.
Bell Peppers: The combo of red and yellow bell peppers adds sweetness and color. You can swap them with green peppers for a sharper taste or use zucchini or mushrooms if you prefer different veggies.
Onion: A medium onion gives a nice flavor base. You can also use red onion for a milder taste or shallots for a hint of sweetness. Fresh scallions can also work in a pinch!
Spices: The mix of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika brings a vibrant flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can be used. For less heat, reduce the chili powder or use paprika instead.
How Can I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating adds so much flavor to the chicken and is super easy! Start by mixing your marinade ingredients in a bowl. Make sure to coat the chicken well and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; 2 hours is ideal for a deeper flavor.
- Combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken, cover it, and refrigerate. The longer, the better!
- When ready, shake off any excess marinade before threading onto skewers.
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes 30 minutes for marinating the chicken and about 15 minutes for grilling. If you prefer more flavor, marinating for up to 2 hours is recommended!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will create a delicious marinade. Afterwards, add the chicken pieces into the bowl and toss them to make sure they are well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, let it marinate for 2 hours for even more flavor!
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. This step is important because it helps prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, they are ready to go right away!
3. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Now, it’s time to thread the chicken onto the skewers. Start with a piece of chicken, followed by a bell pepper piece, then an onion piece, and repeat until the skewer is filled, leaving a little gap between each piece. This helps everything cook evenly and look colorful!
4. Preheat the Grill:
Before you start grilling, preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). This will ensure your skewers cook perfectly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Once the grill is ready, carefully place the skewers on it. Grill the skewers for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning them occasionally to make sure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and has attractive grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
6. Garnish and Serve:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for added flavor. You can enjoy these delicious skewers as they are or serve them with a side of rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy the festive flavors of Mexican barbecue chicken skewers!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. Zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes also work great. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Lime Juice?
No worries! You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a similar tartness. Alternatively, apple cider vinegar can work too; just use a bit less, around 2 tablespoons, to avoid overwhelming the flavor.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to keep them moist, or microwave them in short bursts until warmed through.
Can I Cook These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
