Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and vibrant dish perfect for any gathering. These tender chicken skewers marinated with a delightful blend of Mexican spices offer a unique twist to traditional barbecue meals. They are not only delicious but also versatile enough for quick dinners, outdoor parties, or family get-togethers. With their appealing colors and mouthwatering taste, they will surely impress your guests while being easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: The marinade can be made quickly and requires minimal cooking time.
• Flavor Explosion: A delicious mix of spices and fresh ingredients creates a robust flavor profile.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep; enjoy them any time!
• Colorful Presentation: Bright bell peppers and juicy chicken make for an eye-catching dish.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and vegetables, these skewers are a nutritious choice.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, having the right tools will enhance your cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mini food processor
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Grill or oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mini food processor: This tool makes blending the marinade effortless, ensuring all flavors meld nicely.
• Skewers: Using skewers allows for easy grilling and makes flipping the chicken simple.
• Grill or oven: Both methods provide excellent results, allowing you to choose based on your preference or available equipment.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Chicken 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 Veggies:

• 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

Additional:

• cooking oil spray

How to Make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Add in the spices, jalapeño, lime juice, coriander, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper to a mini food processor.
2. Pulse until it forms a paste. Add in a little water at a time if needed to help it pulse.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add the marinade to the chicken and toss to thoroughly coat.
3. Refrigerate overnight or for at least a few hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Alternate threading chicken pieces with bell peppers and onion onto the skewers (chicken, vegetable, chicken, vegetable).

Step 4: Cook the Skewers

1. Spray the skewers or chicken and vegetables with cooking oil spray.
2. Cook on a hot barbecue, turning frequently until chicken is cooked through (approx 15 minutes).
3. Alternatively, bake these in the oven for 25–30 minutes at 220°C (fan 200°C) or 425°F (gas mark 7) or on a grill pan (approx 7 minutes each side).

Great served with Mexican Chopped Salad and Mexican Rice! Enjoy your flavorful journey with these Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers!

How to Serve Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Serving Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers is all about enhancing their vibrant flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Mexican Chopped Salad: A refreshing mix of lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and corn, dressed with lime vinaigrette.
• Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Crisp cucumbers paired with juicy tomatoes make for a light and zesty side.

Use Dipping Sauces

• Avocado Salsa: Smooth and creamy, this dip complements the spices of the skewers perfectly.
• Spicy Yogurt Sauce: A cooling yogurt sauce with a hint of spice can balance the heat of the chicken.

Accompany with Grains

• Mexican Rice: Flavorful rice cooked with tomatoes and spices brings an extra layer of taste to your meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad packed with vegetables adds protein and texture.

Add Extra Vegetables

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred is a classic barbecue favorite that pairs beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil bring color and sweetness to the plate.

How to Perfect Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

To achieve the best results with your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, consider these helpful tips for a delightful barbecue experience.

• Bold Marinade: Ensure to marinate the chicken thoroughly for enhanced flavor. Overnight marination works wonders!
• Even Cooking: Cut chicken pieces uniformly to ensure they cook evenly on the skewers.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
• High Heat Cooking: Cook on high heat for that perfect char while keeping the inside juicy. Turn frequently for even cooking.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Garnish Creatively: Top your skewers with fresh cilantro or lime wedges before serving for an appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Complementing your Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options:

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip seasoned with lime and herbs provides a rich contrast to the skewers.
2. Refried Beans: Smooth and savory beans add protein and fiber, making them a hearty addition.
3. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of grilled corn, cheese, and spices offers a sweet and spicy flavor profile.
4. Salsa Verde: This tangy green sauce made from tomatillos brightens up your skewers beautifully.
5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds freshness to each bite.
6. Zesty Coleslaw: Crunchy cabbage slaw dressed in lime vinaigrette adds texture and a zesty kick.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until tender provide a naturally sweet contrast to savory flavors.
8. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice is a perfect side that ties everything together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers, avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Not Marinating Long Enough: Failing to marinate the chicken for at least a few hours can result in less flavorful skewers. Aim for overnight marination for the best taste.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many pieces onto a skewer can prevent even cooking. Leave space between each piece to allow heat circulation.
• Using Unsoaked Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, not soaking them can lead to burning on the grill. Soak in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
• Neglecting to Preheat the Grill: Starting with a cold grill may lead to uneven cooking. Preheat it thoroughly to achieve that perfect sear and flavor.
• Skipping the Cooking Oil Spray: Ignoring this step can cause the chicken and vegetables to stick. A light spray ensures they cook evenly and release easily from the grill.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Allow skewers to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, where they will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place skewers on a baking tray and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover lightly with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat in short intervals of 1 minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers.

How do I make Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers spicier?

To add more heat, include additional jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce in your marinade. You can also add spicy chili powder for extra kick.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey works well as a substitute. Just ensure it is cooked thoroughly before serving.

How do I prepare the skewers ahead of time?

You can assemble the skewers and marinate them a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

What sides go well with Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with Mexican Chopped Salad, rice, or grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress at your next barbecue gathering!