These Mexican Barbecue Chicken Skewers are packed with flavor and super easy to make! Juicy chicken meets zesty spices, all grilled to perfection on a stick. Perfect for a sunny day!
Who doesn’t love food on a stick? It’s like a little party you can hold in one hand! I enjoy serving these with some fresh salsa on the side for a tasty twist. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful on the grill. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used, though they might need careful cooking to avoid drying out.
Bell Peppers: The colorful bell peppers not only add sweetness but also a lovely visual appeal. Feel free to mix in other colors like orange or even use zucchini or mushrooms for a different twist!
Chili Powder: This spice brings warmth to the dish. If you want it milder, use a teaspoon of paprika or smoked paprika instead. For more heat, consider cayenne pepper or a spicy chili powder mix.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness to the marinade. You can substitute grape seed oil or avocado oil if you’re looking for something with a high smoke point for grilling.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors. Lemon juice works too, or for a different zing, try apple cider vinegar in a pinch.
How Do I Grill the Chicken Skewers Just Right?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but with the right approach, they can turn out perfectly! Start by making sure your grill is preheated to a medium-high heat—this helps to sear the chicken and keep juices locked in.
- Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before use. This prevents them from catching fire on the grill.
- Make sure to alternate chicken and veggies on the skewers. This way, everything cooks evenly.
- Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making for tender chicken.
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 pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, cut into chunks
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 1 hour of marinating time, plus around 30 minutes for preparation and grilling. Overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 30 minutes to create delicious chicken skewers perfect for a barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This will be a flavorful marinade for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them until they are well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or even better, overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill and Skewers:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take your marinated chicken and thread it onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of red, yellow, and green bell peppers, as well as onion pieces. This will make your skewers colorful and tasty!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Once your grill is hot, place the skewers on it. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want the chicken to be cooked through and to have beautiful grill marks. Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the skewers are done, carefully remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top to add a pop of flavor and color. Enjoy your delicious Mexican barbecue chicken skewers!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but keep in mind they may dry out quicker than thighs. To prevent this, consider marinating them for a bit longer or reducing the cooking time slightly while checking for doneness to reach that 165°F (75°C) internal temperature.
What if I Don’t Have All the Spices on Hand?
No worries! You can get creative with substitutions. For instance, if you’re missing cumin or smoked paprika, try using taco seasoning or even a bit of curry powder to add flavor. Just taste as you go so you get the right balance!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
The chicken can be marinated for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, marinating overnight is ideal. However, try not to marinate for more than 24 hours as the texture may change and become mushy.
Can I Make These Skewers in the Oven?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and gets a nice char. Just make sure to check that internal temperature!
