These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are packed with zesty flavors! Marinated in a mix of spices and grilled to juicy perfection, they make for a fun and tasty meal.
Serve them up at your next party, and watch everyone reach for seconds! I love to pair them with fresh salsa for that extra kick—yum! 🌮
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for juicy skewers, but you can also use chicken breast if you prefer leaner meat. Just remember, breasts can dry out faster, so marinate them well.
Bell peppers: The combination of red, yellow, and green bell peppers adds both sweetness and crunch. If you want a bit of spice, try using a jalapeño pepper instead of one of the bell peppers!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor at the end. If you’re not a fan, parsley works as a great substitute, or you can skip it altogether.
Olive oil: This is a healthy fat for marinating. If olive oil isn’t available, avocado oil or canola oil can work well too.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika give a lovely depth to your skewers. You can swap chili powder for taco seasoning if that’s what you have on hand.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Flavor?
Marinating chicken is key to infusing flavor and ensuring it stays moist while cooking. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Mix your marinade ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.
- Add chicken pieces, making sure each piece is coated nicely. Use a spoon or your hands (with gloves) for this.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least an hour is great, but letting it sit overnight gives even better flavor.
- If you’re short on time, you can marinate for just 30 minutes. But more time is always better!
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 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)
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Marinade:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix the marinade. You should marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour (or overnight for extra flavor). Cooking the skewers on the grill takes about 10-15 minutes. Overall, you’ll need about 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy these delicious Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers!
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 blend of spices will give your chicken a zesty flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, let it sit overnight for even more flavor!
3. Prepare the Skewers:
If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s ready when you are!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken is marinated, grab your skewers and thread the chicken pieces onto them. Alternate with the colorful pieces of red, yellow, and green bell peppers, and chunks of onion. This will not only make your skewers look pretty but will also add great flavor!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. You’ll want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color!
Enjoy your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers warm, and share them with friends and family! They’ll love the vibrant flavors!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple for a touch of sweetness. Just make sure they’re cut into similar sizes for even cooking!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a great way to intensify the flavors! Just be mindful not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity in the marinade can break down the chicken and change its texture.
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until heated through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like it spicy, you can add some cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or even a splash of hot sauce into your marinade. Adjust the spice level to your taste for a delicious kick!
