Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a delightful way to enjoy tender chicken marinated in a mix of vibrant Mexican spices. Perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, these skewers offer a burst of flavor in every bite. The combination of juicy chicken and colorful vegetables makes them not only delicious but visually appealing as well. Dive into this recipe and take your barbecue game to the next level!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The marinade features a blend of spices that infuse the chicken with incredible flavors.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these skewers quickly.
- Versatile Dish: Serve them at a party, on game day, or as a healthy weeknight meal—these skewers fit any occasion.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, they make a great choice for those watching their diet.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out veggies or adjust the spice levels to your liking.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mini food processor
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Mixing bowl
- Grill or oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Mini food processor: Ideal for blending spices into a smooth marinade without much effort.
- Skewers: Necessary for assembling the chicken and veggies; choose wooden or metal based on your preference.
- Mixing bowl: A must-have for tossing the chicken with marinade evenly.
- Grill or oven: Allows you to cook the skewers perfectly, whether outdoors or indoors.
Ingredients
Mexican Barbecue – tender chicken skewers marinated with a delicious Mexican blend of spices for the perfect barbecue meal.
For the Chicken
- 8 small boneless chicken thighs, any visible fat removed (approx 650g/22.5oz)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed
For the Marinade
- 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 Vegetables
- 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
Other Ingredients
- cooking oil spray
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by adding the spices, jalapeño, lime juice, coriander, salt, and black pepper to a mini food processor. Pulse until it forms a paste. If needed, add water gradually to help it blend smoothly.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Transfer them to a mixing bowl and pour the marinade over the chicken. Toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly.
Step 3: Refrigerate
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight or for at least a few hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the chicken.
Step 4: Soak Skewers (if using wooden)
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
Step 5: Assemble Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers alternately with pieces of bell peppers and onion (chicken, vegetable, chicken, vegetable).
Step 6: Oil the Skewers
Spray the assembled skewers lightly with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking during grilling.
Step 7: Cook on Barbecue
Place the skewers on a hot barbecue grill. Turn them frequently until the chicken is cooked through—this usually takes about 15 minutes.
Step 8: Alternative Cooking Method
You can also bake these skewers in an oven preheated to 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) for 25-30 minutes. Alternatively, use a grill pan on medium heat for about 7 minutes per side.
Step 9: Serve
These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are best served alongside Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice for a complete meal! Enjoy!
How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Serving Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers can elevate your meal experience and impress your guests. Here are some tasty suggestions to complement these flavorful skewers.
With Fresh Salsas
- Pico de Gallo – A fresh tomato salsa that adds a zesty crunch.
- Mango Salsa – Sweet and spicy, this salsa pairs beautifully with the smoky flavors.
On a Bed of Rice
- Cilantro Lime Rice – This fragrant rice dish enhances the overall taste with its citrus notes.
- Mexican Rice – A savory option that adds depth and texture to your plate.
Accompanied by Dips
- Guacamole – Creamy and rich, it provides a perfect contrast to the grilled chicken.
- Chipotle Ranch Dip – A smoky and creamy dip that complements the spice of the skewers.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Zucchini and Corn Medley – Lightly grilled summer vegetables add color and flavor.
- Grilled Asparagus – A simple yet elegant side that pairs well with the chicken skewers.
How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
To achieve perfectly cooked Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, consider these helpful tips.
- Marinate Overnight – Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavor deeply.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices will give your skewers an authentic taste.
- Soak Wooden Skewers – Soaking prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring they hold together well.
- Alternate Ingredients on Skewers – Interspersing chicken with vegetables creates a balanced bite every time.
- Keep an Eye on Cooking Time – Overcooking can dry out the chicken; aim for about 15 minutes on high heat.
- Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing the skewers to rest for a few minutes helps keep them juicy.
Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Mexican Chopped Salad – A refreshing mix of veggies dressed in lime juice, perfect for balancing flavors.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled, it adds sweetness that complements the smoky chicken.
- Refried Beans – Creamy and hearty, they provide protein while enhancing the meal’s richness.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Topped with cheese and spices, it’s a fun twist on traditional corn dishes.
- Avocado Salad – Creamy avocado mixed with cilantro and lime makes for a light side dish full of flavor.
- Quinoa Salad – A nutrient-packed option that adds texture without overpowering the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, it’s easy to overlook several key aspects that can impact the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the marinade time: Marinating your chicken is essential for flavor. Always let it sit for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, to fully absorb the spices.
- Using dry skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water beforehand prevents them from burning on the grill. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes.
- Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to leave some space between pieces for proper heat circulation.
- Not checking doneness: Chicken should be cooked thoroughly to ensure it’s safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).
- Ignoring vegetable size: Cutting vegetables in uniform sizes ensures they cook evenly with the chicken. Make sure all pieces are similar in dimensions for best results.
- Neglecting oil spray: Failing to spray your skewers with oil can lead to sticking and dryness. A light coat of cooking oil helps everything cook nicely and stay juicy.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
- Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; they will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Cook skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make gluten-free Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?
You can easily make these skewers gluten-free by ensuring all your spices and marinades are gluten-free certified.
Can I use different meats for this recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness, you can substitute with beef or pork if preferred.
What side dishes pair well with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?
These skewers go great with Mexican Chopped Salad or Mexican Rice, enhancing the overall meal experience.
How long does it take to marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken overnight or at least for a few hours before grilling.
Final Thoughts
Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any barbecue gathering. You can customize them with your choice of vegetables or even change up the marinade spices based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a flavorful meal that’s bound to impress!
Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers
Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish that takes your grilling game to new heights. Marinated in a robust blend of Mexican spices, these skewers are perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or quick weeknight dinners. Juicy chicken pieces combined with colorful bell peppers and onion not only tantalize your taste buds but also create an eye-catching presentation. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with fresh sides like cilantro lime rice or zesty salsas, these skewers offer a satisfying meal that showcases the exciting flavors of Mexico.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 8 small boneless chicken thighs
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 jalapeño pepper
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- lime juice
- fresh coriander
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: Blend spices, jalapeño, lime juice, coriander, salt, and pepper in a mini food processor until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Dice chicken and mix with marinade in a bowl; cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers.
- Cook: Grill on medium heat for about 15 minutes or bake at 220°C (425°F) for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Use wooden skewers soaked in water to prevent burning. Customize vegetables based on your preference. Serve with fresh salsas or on a bed of rice for a complete meal.
