Get ready for a tasty treat with these Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers! Juicy chicken pieces marinated in vibrant spices and grilled to perfection will make your taste buds dance.
Perfect for a summer cookout, these skewers are so simple to make. I love serving them with fresh veggies and a squeeze of lime. Just watch out, they might disappear fast! 🌮🔥
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe uses chicken breast for its lean protein. If you want a juicier option, boneless chicken thighs work well too. They add more flavor and stay moist when grilled.
Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, and green bell peppers add color and sweetness. If you can’t find any of these, feel free to use zucchini or cherry tomatoes for a twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that bold flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but use only about 1/8 teaspoon since it’s more concentrated.
Olive Oil: A key component in the marinade. You can switch it out for avocado oil, which has a high smoke point and a nice flavor.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brings brightness. If limes are not available, lemon juice is a good substitute, though it has a different taste.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give a delicious kick. If you like things spicy, try adding cayenne pepper or using a spicy chili powder. Adjust according to your preference!
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is super important for great flavor. Here’s how to ensure it’s done right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Add the chicken pieces and toss until they’re fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but longer is even better. Aim for 2-4 hours, or overnight for a deeper flavor.
- Seal the marinated chicken in a plastic bag for easy handling and even coating.
Using a longer marinating time lets the spices penetrate better, making each bite packed with flavor!
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 pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into pieces
- 1 medium onion, cut into pieces
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Marinade:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 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 10 minutes of prep time, plus 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor) and 12 minutes for grilling. In total, you can expect to spend about 52 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful marinade will help tenderize and infuse the chicken with delicious spices!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and make sure they are 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 30 minutes; if you have more time, letting it sit for 2-4 hours will enhance the flavors even more!
3. Prepare the Grill and Skewers:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Don’t forget to soak your wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the grill is hot, it’s time to thread the chicken and veggies onto the skewers. Alternate between pieces of marinated chicken, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. This way, each bite is packed with flavor!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally for even cooking. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is no longer pink inside.
6. Rest and Serve:
Carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist. Serve the kebabs on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro. They’re great with your favorite dipping sauce or wrapped in tortillas. Enjoy your tasty Mexican barbecue chicken skewers!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for These Skewers?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; shrimp cooks faster (about 5-8 minutes), while tofu should be pre-cooked or marinated longer to enhance its flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and vegetables a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, the flavors will be even more vibrant! Just make sure to skewer and grill the ingredients when you’re ready to serve for the best taste and texture.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use an oven or grill to warm them up without drying them out. Wrap them in foil and heat at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What Can I Serve with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a refreshing cucumber salad, rice, or tortillas for a complete meal. For a dip, consider serving them with guacamole or a zesty salsa for an added flair!
